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Os Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team ... Collaborate with SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to define OS and kernel requirements for ...

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team ... define OS and kernel requirements for new hardware features. • Develop and enhance kernel ...

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team ... Collaborate with SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to define OS and kernel requirements for ...

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team ... define OS and kernel requirements for new hardware features. • Develop and enhance kernel ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

... OS components). * Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Nvidia

OR · On-site

... to OS boot and production stability. * Automated Engineering: Design and implement fully automated test suites to validate kernel stability and performance, ensuring that "quality" is a built-in ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

Monitor Windows platform changes to ensure compatibility and stability across OS versions. REQUIRED ... engineering, or rootkit detection. * Familiarity with Windows kernel threat models and secure ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

Monitor Windows platform changes to ensure compatibility and stability across OS versions. REQUIRED ... engineering, or rootkit detection. * Familiarity with Windows kernel threat models and secure ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$139.50K - $258.10K/yr

... core OS components). Proven ability to debug kernel level issues (panics, hangs, performance ... Strong programming skills in C, plus proficiency in at least one of Rust, Go, Python, or Bash.

Apple

Kernel Scheduler Engineer, Core OS

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$147.40K - $272.10K/yr

Description As a Kernel Engineer on the Scheduler team, you will drive the evolution of the XNU ... OS scales gracefully from low-power embedded devices to massive high-performance workstation ...

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Os Kernel Developer information

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$33K

$141.7K

$308K

How much do os kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for os kernel developer in the United States is $141,668.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $156,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an OS Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an OS Kernel Developer, you need expertise in low-level programming (especially C and assembly), operating system concepts, and a strong background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as Git, GNU toolchain, debuggers, and experience with version control systems are typically required, along with contributions to open-source kernel projects being highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for addressing complex bugs and collaborating with distributed teams. These abilities ensure robust, secure, and efficient kernel development, which is foundational for stable and high-performing operating systems.

What are some common challenges faced by OS Kernel Developers when debugging kernel-level code?

Debugging kernel-level code can be particularly challenging due to the lack of traditional debugging tools and the potential for system instability. Since kernel bugs can lead to crashes or data corruption, developers often rely on specialized tools like kernel debuggers, logging, and virtual machines to safely test changes. Additionally, reproducing bugs can be difficult because issues may only appear under specific hardware or workload conditions. Collaboration with hardware engineers and other system developers is often necessary to resolve complex issues efficiently.

What are OS Kernel Developers?

OS Kernel Developers are software engineers who specialize in designing, implementing, and maintaining the core component of an operating system, known as the kernel. The kernel is responsible for managing system resources, hardware communication, and enabling software applications to interact with hardware safely and efficiently. These developers work with low-level programming languages like C and C++, and they play a crucial role in ensuring system stability, security, and performance. Their work is fundamental to the functioning of computers, smartphones, servers, and embedded systems.

What is the difference between Os Kernel Developer vs Device Driver Developer?

AspectOs Kernel DeveloperDevice Driver Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, knowledge of OS conceptsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related, specialized in hardware interfaces
Work EnvironmentDeveloping core OS components, debugging kernel codeWriting and maintaining hardware-specific drivers, testing on devices
Industry UsageOperating system development, embedded systemsHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, PC peripherals
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding core OS development rolesFocus on hardware interaction and driver development

Os Kernel Developers work on the core components of operating systems, ensuring system stability and performance. Device Driver Developers focus on creating software that allows hardware devices to communicate with the OS. While both roles require knowledge of hardware and software, kernel developers handle the entire OS kernel, whereas driver developers specialize in specific hardware interfaces.

Infographic showing various Os Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,668 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Linux Kernel Engineer

Linux Kernel Engineer

Intel

Folsom, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Intel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 137 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Job Details:Job Description: 

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an emphasis on x86 architectures, device drivers, and platform-level integration. The successful candidate will support early platform enablement across both presilicon and postsilicon environments, including FPGA-based validation platforms and production silicon.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with Silicon Architects, SoC design teams, firmware engineers, and other software developers to enable operating system support for new hardware capabilities. The position requires strong Linux kernel expertise, deep understanding of hardware-software interfaces, and the ability to debug complex system-level issues during early platform bring-up. Contributions to upstream Linux kernel subsystems and participation in open-source development are highly valued.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and maintain Linux kernel modules and device drivers for x86-based platforms.
Support platform bring-up activities and early boot enablement in both presilicon (FPGA/emulation) and postsilicon environments.
Work with FPGA platforms and simulation environments for early hardware validation and driver development.
Collaborate with SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to define OS and kernel requirements for new hardware features.
Develop and enhance kernel subsystems related to device drivers, memory management, power management, scheduling, and platform interfaces.
Implement and debug kernel functionality including ACPI integration and hardware interface protocols.
Diagnose and resolve kernel-level issues during system boot, device initialization, and runtime operation.
Backport patches, apply security updates, and maintain stable kernel branches as part of platform productization.
Contribute patches and enhancements to upstream Linux kernel subsystems when applicable.
Optimize system performance through power/performance tuning, memory management improvements, and system-level profiling.
Maintain kernel configuration, build environments, and development workflows using Git-based version control systems.
Work with cross-functional engineering team

PROFESSIONAL TRAITS
Strong analytical thinking and system-level problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including SoC design, firmware, and platform engineering groups.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively in a team environment.
Strong attention to detail with disciplined debugging and troubleshooting practices.
Adaptability to work across different hardware platforms and development phases.
Passion for low-level systems development, including personal experimentation with Linux kernel builds, debugging, or open-source contributions.
Commitment to high-quality engineering practices and maintainable code.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 3+ years of relevant experience.
The experience must include:
Linux Kernel Development1:
Strong experience in Linux kernel development with emphasis on x86 platform architecture.
Hands-on experience developing and debugging Linux kernel drivers and kernel subsystems.
Experience working with one or more Linux kernel subsystems such as:
Device drivers and platform drivers
Memory management
Power management and ACPI
Scheduler or interrupt handling
Virtualization or I/O subsystems
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Development Tools
Proficiency with Git-based development workflows.
Experience submitting or maintaining upstream Linux kernel patches.
Familiarity with Linux kernel build systems and configuration management.
Debugging and Performance
Strong debugging skills using kernel-level diagnostic tools.
Experience with system performance analysis, power optimization, and memory management.

Job Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, California, FolsomAdditional Locations:US, California, Santa Clara, US, Oregon, HillsboroBusiness group:The Software Team drives customer value by enabling differentiated experiences through leadership AI technologies and foundational software stacks, products, and services. The group is responsible for developing the holistic strategy for client and data center software in collaboration with OSVs, ISVs, developers, partners and OEMs. The group delivers specialized NPU IP to enable the AI PC and GPU IP to support all of Intel's market segments. The group also has HW and SW engineering experts responsible for delivering IP, SOCs, runtimes, and platforms to support the CPU and GPU/accelerator roadmap, inclusive of integrated and discrete graphics.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $149,600.00-211,200.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will be eligible for our hybrid work model which allows employees to split their time between working on-site at their assigned Intel site and off-site. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968

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