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Senior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA

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Senior Linux Kernel Engineer information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$10

$60

$78

How much do senior linux kernel engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior linux kernel engineer in Ashburn, VA is $60.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.18 and $73.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Linux Kernel Engineer vs Linux Device Driver Developer?

AspectSenior Linux Kernel EngineerLinux Device Driver Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Science, Linux kernel certificationsBachelor's in Computer Science, Linux kernel or driver development courses
Work EnvironmentResearch and development, kernel development teamsHardware integration, driver development teams
Industry UsageOperating system development, embedded systemsHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, IoT devices
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Senior Linux Kernel Engineer focuses on designing, developing, and optimizing the Linux kernel itself, often working on core system functionalities. In contrast, a Linux Device Driver Developer specializes in creating and maintaining drivers that enable hardware components to communicate with the Linux kernel. While both roles require deep Linux kernel knowledge and similar credentials, their work environments and focus areas differ. The senior engineer works on kernel internals, whereas the driver developer concentrates on hardware integration.

Are senior Linux kernel engineers in demand?

Senior Linux kernel engineers are in high demand due to the critical role of Linux in servers, cloud infrastructure, and embedded systems. Their expertise in kernel development, performance tuning, and security is sought after across various industries, often requiring strong programming skills and knowledge of system architecture.

What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Senior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Senior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,991 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Linux Developer with Security Clearance

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets. We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in system-level software development and a deep understanding of Linux/Unix internals. This role involves designing, developing, testing, and debugging high-performance software across multiple hardware architectures in a collaborative, cross-platform environment. Responsibilities * Design, develop, test, and debug system-level software for Linux-based platforms
* Contribute to low-level system components, drivers, and core services
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support development across multiple architectures
* Analyze and resolve complex technical issues related to performance, stability, and scalability
* Participate in code reviews and follow best practices for secure and maintainable software development
Required Qualifications * Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
* Minimum 3 years of professional experience developing, testing, and debugging software in C, C++, and Python
* Minimum 3 years of experience developing, testing, and debugging system-level software for Linux
* Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Linux/Unix internals, including low-level system development, APIs, and interfaces
* Proven experience working in cross-platform environments
* Hands-on experience with one or more of the following architectures: x86/x64, ARM, and/or MIPS
Preferred Qualifications * Experience with Linux kernel development
* Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments
* Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award. Salary & Benefits
The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards. Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances. Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.