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Senior Linux Kernel Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Avride

Embedded Linux Kernel Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

About the role We are seeking a highly experienced Embedded Linux Software Engineer responsible for ... Proven, hands-on experience with embedded Linux kernel, including preempt_rt, device drivers and ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

AMD

Senior Linux Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

They are seeking a Senior Linux Software Engineer to work with OS partners on enabling Linux ... Linux kernel and virtualization debugging skills • Linux feature backporting and upstreaming ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

New York, NY

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

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Senior Linux Kernel Engineer information

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior linux kernel engineer in the United States is $58.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.08 and $72.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of Linux kernel engineer?

The salary of a Senior Linux Kernel Engineer typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Skilled engineers with expertise in kernel development, C programming, and Linux systems can earn higher compensation, especially in tech hubs or with specialized certifications.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Linux Kernel Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in kernel development, and often working in high-demand industries or companies can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in large tech firms or startups with significant funding.

How much do kernel engineers make?

Senior Linux Kernel Engineers typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Advanced skills in C programming, kernel development, and familiarity with tools like Git can influence salary levels.

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.

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What cities are hiring for Senior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings:
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Senior Linux Kernel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Linux Kernel Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,228 per year, or $58.8 per hour.
Senior Networking Software Engineer, Linux Kernel Drivers

Senior Networking Software Engineer, Linux Kernel Drivers

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology-and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you'll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.
We are looking for a Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer to join the Linux networking drivers R&D team. The work environment is versatile, informative, dynamic and challenging as our employees are currently working on innovative, next-generation network interface card at the forefront of technology.
What you'll be doing:
  • Craft and implement Linux kernel networking drivers for NVIDIA ConnectX and BlueField network adapters, as well as userspace libraries.
  • Develop high-quality code for the Linux kernel and open-source environments, contributing to the upstream kernel community.
  • Collaborate and debug with teams across the globe to provide the best networking solutions for our customers.
  • Drive complex technical issues to closure that may occur across team boundaries.
  • Driving a complete engineering process, including refining requirements, engineering design of data structures/algorithms, implementation, peer review, developer testing, and post-GA support.
  • Work in a fast-paced environment of continuous development and deployment cycles.

What we need to see:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, or equivalent experience
  • 8+ years of proven experience in the field
  • C programming experience - native
  • Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills
  • Experience with Linux kernel-level programming
  • Deep understanding of networking drivers and software/hardware interaction, including device drivers, Linux kernel internals. userspace and kernel interactions
  • Strong networking knowledge - TCP/IP, L2/L3 protocols, and network device driver architecture
  • Strong ability to self-manage and communicate effectively

Ways to stand out from the crowd:
  • Previous experience with the upstream Linux kernel community and open-source contribution
  • Proficiency in data structures and operating systems internals
  • Hands-on expertise with RDMA and RoCE
  • A Master's or equivalent experience in Computer Science is a plus

With competitive salaries and a generous benefits package, we are widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us and, due to unprecedented growth, our exclusive engineering teams are rapidly growing. If you're a creative and autonomous engineer with a real passion for technology, we want to hear from you.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 10, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Nvidia logo

About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1993

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