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Rust Linux Kernel Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on ... Familiarity with Rust Pay & Benefits Consistent with SiFive values and applicable law, we provide ...

In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on ... Familiarity with Rust Pay & Benefits Consistent with SiFive values and applicable law, we provide ...

Write and bring up Linux kernel drivers and D-Bus/sdbusplus services; debug across the hardware ... Rust for systems programming Compensation The US base salary for this full-time position is ...

BMC Firmware Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$175K - $362K/yr

Write and bring up Linux kernel drivers and D-Bus/sdbusplus services; debug across the hardware ... Rust for systems programming Compensation The US base salary for this full-time position is ...

System Software Engineer, Networking

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$203K - $240K/yr

Work across the full stack - userspace control-plane services, the Linux kernel and network device ... Python, Go, and/or Rust. * Strong hands-on skills in network configuration, debugging, and ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$161K - $211K/yr

Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers and userspace integration for sensors, GMSL cameras ... Strong proficiency in C and ideally C++ and/or Rust * Strong experience with Yocto, Buildroot, or ...

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Rust Linux Kernel information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$118.6K

$175.1K

$206.7K

How much do rust linux kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for rust linux kernel in Santa Clara, CA is $175,064.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $160,300.00 and $193,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Rust Linux Kernel developers?

Rust Linux Kernel developers are software engineers who contribute to the Linux kernel using the Rust programming language. They focus on writing new kernel modules or components in Rust, aiming to improve safety, security, and maintainability compared to traditional C code. These developers typically have a deep understanding of both systems programming and the Linux kernel architecture. Their work is part of an ongoing effort to gradually integrate Rust into the kernel alongside existing C code.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rust Linux Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rust Linux Kernel Developer, you need deep knowledge of systems programming, strong proficiency in Rust and C, and experience with Linux kernel internals. Familiarity with build systems (e.g., Make), version control (Git), and relevant certifications such as Linux Foundation Certified Engineer are typically valuable. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure robust, secure, and maintainable kernel contributions while facilitating smooth teamwork in complex open-source environments.

What is the difference between Rust Linux Kernel vs C Linux Kernel Developer?

AspectRust Linux KernelC Linux Kernel Developer
Required CredentialsKnowledge of Rust programming, Linux kernel basicsProficiency in C, Linux kernel development experience
Work EnvironmentContributing to Linux kernel modules using Rust, Linux environmentDeveloping and maintaining Linux kernel code in C
Industry UsageEmerging in kernel development, experimental projectsStandard in Linux kernel development
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for language choice in kernel modulesTraditional role, baseline for kernel development

The main difference between a Rust Linux Kernel developer and a C Linux Kernel Developer lies in the programming language used. Rust developers focus on leveraging Rust's safety features for kernel modules, while C developers work with the traditional C language. Both roles require Linux kernel knowledge, but Rust is newer and less widespread in kernel development, making it an emerging area compared to the well-established C role.

What are some common challenges faced when working on Rust integration within the Linux kernel, and how do teams typically address them?

A frequent challenge in this role is bridging the gap between Rust and the existing C-based Linux kernel codebase. This includes ensuring memory safety, managing interoperability between the two languages, and adhering to strict kernel coding standards. Teams often address these challenges through extensive code reviews, collaborative discussions on kernel mailing lists, and by actively participating in the upstream kernel and Rust-for-Linux communities. Continuous learning and communication are essential, as both the Rust integration and kernel development methodologies are rapidly evolving.
What are popular job titles related to Rust Linux Kernel jobs in Santa Clara, CA? For Rust Linux Kernel jobs in Santa Clara, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Rust Linux Kernel jobs? Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Rust Linux Kernel job openings:
Infographic showing various Rust Linux Kernel job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $175,064 per year, or $84.2 per hour.

Linux Kernel Architect

SiFive

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

About SiFive
As the pioneers who introduced RISC-V to the world, SiFive is transforming the future of compute by bringing the limitless potential of RISC-V to the highest performance and most data-intensive applications in the world. SiFive's unrivaled compute platforms are continuing to enable leading technology companies around the world to innovate, optimize and deliver the most advanced solutions of tomorrow across every market segment of chip design, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, automotive, data center, mobile, and consumer. With SiFive, the future of RISC-V has no limits.
At SiFive, we are always excited to connect with talented individuals, who are just as passionate about driving innovation and changing the world as we are.
Our constant innovation and ongoing success is down to our amazing teams of incredibly talented people, who collaborate and support each other to come up with truly groundbreaking ideas and solutions. Solutions that will have a huge impact on people's lives; making the world a better place, one processor at a time.
Are you ready?
To learn more about SiFive's phenomenal success and to see why we have won the GSA's prestigious Most Respected Private Company Award (for the fourth time!), check out our website and Glassdoor pages.
Job Description:
The Role
Do you want to be part of the RISC-V revolution? RISC-V and SiFive are redefining computing platforms for the 21st century. SiFive, the world RISC-V leader, is seeking an experienced Linux kernel software architect. In this role, you'll be improving and debugging the RISC-V Linux kernel, with particular focus on high core count server systems. You'll interact directly with the upstream Linux and OpenSBI communities, posting and reviewing patches. You'll debug challenging problems, working with our system software and system validation teams, on SiFive designs running in emulation. And you'll work with hardware architects and engineers, both inside SiFive and at RISC-V International, to improve our core and system designs.
What we need to see
  • Experience working on concurrency-sensitive code in the upstream Linux kernel, with a track record writing and reviewing patches on the public mailing lists
  • Experience debugging challenging software and hardware bugs in CPUs and SoCs
  • Experience working with CPU architects and RTL engineers
  • Experience developing and debugging Linux on FPGA and emulation platforms
  • Experience with hypervisors and virtualization
  • Familiarity with the RISC-V architecture

Ways to stand out
  • Familiarity with silicon design issues and challenges
  • Familiarity with microarchitectural side-channel attacks and mitigations
  • Familiarity with debugging systems via hardware debuggers
  • Familiarity with Devicetree, ACPI and UEFI
  • Familiarity with Rust

Pay & Benefits
Consistent with SiFive values and applicable law, we provide the following information to promote pay transparency and equity. We have a market-based pay structure which varies by location. Please note that the base pay range is a guideline, and our compensation range reflects the cost of labor in the U.S. geographic market based on the location of the role. Pay within these ranges varies and depends on job-related knowledge, skills, and relevant work experience.
For candidates who receive and offer, the starting salary will vary based on various factors including, but not limited to, such qualifications as, skill level, competencies, and work location. The range provided may represent a candidate range and may not reflect the full range for an individual tenured employee.
Base Pay Range
In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for variable/ incentive compensation and/ or equity. In addition, this role is eligible for a comprehensive, competitive benefits package which may include healthcare and retirement plans, paid time off, and more!
Additional Information:
This position requires a successful background and reference checks and satisfactory proof of your right to work in
United States of America
Any offer of employment for this position is also contingent on the Company verifying that you are a authorized for access to export-controlled technology under applicable export control laws or, if you are not already authorized, our ability to successfully obtain any necessary export license(s) or other approvals.
SiFive is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
As an E-Verify employer, we use this system to confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires in accordance with federal law. All applicants will be required to complete a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, upon hire. We do not use E-Verify to pre-screen job candidates and will comply with all E-Verify regulations.
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