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Software Engineer Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hp

System Software Engineer (Kernel)

Spring, TX

$130K - $205K/yr

System Software Engineer (Kernel) Description - The Systems Software Engineer (Kernel) is tasked with developing advanced solutions for HP's commercial PC portfolio. This role encompasses leadership ...

Arista Networks

Arista Networks is looking for world-class Linux Kernel and BIOS software engineers to join our Dublin Kernel software team. Our Kernel team is responsible for keeping pace with the latest ...

Nvidia

Senior AI Software Engineer, Kernel Libraries

$125K - $165K/yr

... engineers to develop groundbreaking technologies in the inference systems software stack. We build ... This means designing and building things like new abstractions, efficient attention kernel ...

Nvidia

Senior AI Software Engineer, Kernel Libraries

$125K - $165K/yr

... engineers to develop groundbreaking technologies in the inference systems software stack! We build ... This means designing and building things like new abstractions, efficient attention kernel ...

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Software Engineer Kernel information

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$50.5K

$134K

$177K

How much do software engineer kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer kernel in the United States is $133,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,500.00 and $153,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer kernel?

Software Engineer Kernels are professionals who design, develop, and maintain the core part of an operating system known as the kernel. The kernel is responsible for managing hardware resources, facilitating communication between hardware and software, and ensuring system stability and security. Kernel engineers often work with low-level programming languages like C or C++ and focus on tasks such as device driver development, memory management, process scheduling, and performance optimization. Their work is critical for the reliability and efficiency of computers, servers, and embedded systems.

What are typical challenges faced by a software engineer kernel when working on operating system development?

Software Engineer Kernel specialists often encounter challenges such as debugging complex low-level issues, ensuring system stability, and maintaining compatibility with a wide range of hardware. They must frequently collaborate with hardware engineers and other software teams to resolve cross-disciplinary problems. Additionally, kernel engineers need to manage strict performance and security requirements, which requires a deep understanding of system architecture and careful code optimization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer kernel, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Kernel, you need expertise in C/C++ programming, operating system concepts, and low-level debugging, often supported by a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, kernel build tools, and platforms such as Linux or Windows kernel environments is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities are crucial for developing robust, efficient, and secure kernel components that form the foundation of stable operating systems.

What is the difference between Software Engineer Kernel vs Software Engineer Firmware?

AspectSoftware Engineer KernelSoftware Engineer Firmware
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related; often requires knowledge of OS conceptsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering; embedded systems knowledge
Work EnvironmentOperating system development, kernel modules, system-level programmingEmbedded devices, hardware interfaces, low-level programming
Industry UsageOperating system companies, hardware manufacturers, tech firmsConsumer electronics, automotive, IoT devices
Search & ComparisonOften compared due to low-level programming focus and system impactDifferent focus on hardware interaction and embedded systems

Software Engineer Kernel and Software Engineer Firmware both work with low-level programming, but the Kernel role focuses on operating system core development, while Firmware engineers develop embedded software for hardware devices. Their skills overlap in C programming and hardware knowledge, but their work environments and end goals differ significantly.

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Software Engineer Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Kernel job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,968 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

System Software Engineer (Kernel)

HP Development Company, L.P.

Spring, TX • On-site

$130K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

System Software Engineer (Kernel)
Description -
The Systems Software Engineer (Kernel) is tasked with developing advanced solutions for HP's commercial PC portfolio. This role encompasses leadership in the design, development, and optimization of Windows and Linux drivers as well as other software products. The engineer proactively identifies and resolves software issues, ensuring delivery of effective solutions within established timelines.
Beyond technical problem-solving, the position requires the preparation and upkeep of comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, detailed code annotations, and user guides to facilitate development and deployment activities. Additionally, the engineer remains informed about emerging technologies and industry trends pertinent to solution development, ensuring that all deliverables are both current and competitive.
Responsibilities
  • Oversees the development and preparation of comprehensive instructional technical manuscripts related to driver operations.
  • Allocates resources and develops detailed programming project plans to ensure deliverables are completed to specification.
  • Leads multiple project teams comprising software engineers and both internal and external development partners, managing all phases of design and development for advanced products and platforms.
  • Manages and strengthens relationships with internal and external development partners in software design and development.
  • Reviews and assesses designs and project activities to ensure compliance with systems guidelines and standards, providing actionable feedback to enhance product quality and reduce risk.
  • Offers domain-specific expertise and strategic leadership across organizational projects, programs, and initiatives.
  • Collaborates with hardware and firmware engineers to facilitate effective integration and communication between hardware and firmware components.
  • Defines and documents communication protocols, system states, and feature requirements in conjunction with firmware and software teams.
  • Champions innovation by integrating new technologies into organizational projects and workflows.
  • Mentors junior software engineers, guiding them toward successful project outcomes.

Education & Experience Recommended
  • Bachelor Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 7-10 years of work experience, preferably in Windows/Linux Driver development.

Preferred Certifications
Software Engineering
  • Deep understanding and experience with both user and kernel more device drivers
  • Low footprint Peer2Peer decentralized systems development including security; experience with novel architectures desired.
  • Control systems design
  • Fault tolerant and high availability systems design
  • CI/CD pipeline expertise

Connectivity and Interoperability
  • Security development (cryptography, protocols, onboarding techniques)
  • Wireless protocol stack development (multiple wireless protocols preferred)
  • Interconnectivity protocols expertise
  • Hardware Driver development expertise (well versed in details of the published specification to help drive new design approaches)

Knowledge & Skills
  • Proficient in C; familiar with Python, batch files, and command shells, and other relevant scripting languages.
  • Source control experience (Github)
  • Bare metal systems and bootloader architecture knowledge
  • Skilled in embedded firmware debugging (JTAG, SWD)
  • Experienced with UART, I2C, SPI protocols
  • Use of logic analyzers, I2C analyzers, oscilloscopes, and similar tools
  • RTOS concepts and multi-threaded firmware development
  • Basic analog/digital electronics knowledge; able to read HW schematics
  • Capable of interpreting specifications and data sheets to develop firmware solutions

The pay range for this role is $130,700 to $205,200 USD annually with additional opportunities for pay in the form of bonus and/or equity (applies to United States of America candidates only). Pay varies by work location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Benefits:
HP offers a comprehensive benefits package for this position, including:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Long term/short term disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Generous time off policies, including;
  • 4-12 weeks fully paid parental leave based on tenure
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Additional flexible paid vacation and sick leave (US benefits overview)

The compensation and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.
Job -
Software
Schedule -
Full time
Shift -
No shift premium (United States of America)
Travel -
Relocation -
Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) -
HP, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and prospective employees, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran, marital status, familial status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic predisposition or carrier status, uniformed service status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by applicable national, federal, state, and local law(s).
Please be assured that you will not be subject to any adverse treatment if you choose to disclose the information requested. This information is provided voluntarily. The information obtained will be kept in strict confidence.
For more information, review HP's EEO Policy or read about your rights as an applicant under the law here: "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal"

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