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Software Engineer Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

New York, NY

$165K - $242K/yr

As a kernel generalist, you will be responsible for debugging kernel-level issues, analyzing and ... Experience as a software engineer writing large-scale applications * Experience with machine ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

As a kernel generalist, you will be responsible for debugging kernel-level issues, analyzing and ... Experience as a software engineer writing large-scale applications * Experience with machine ...

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Software Engineer Kernel information

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How much do software engineer kernel jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 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 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 are typical challenges faced by Software Engineer Kernel specialists 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 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.

What are Software Engineer Kernels?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Software Engineer Kernel jobs? Cities with the most Software Engineer Kernel job openings:
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Software Engineer Kernel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Kernel job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,968 per year, or $64.4 per hour.
Software Engineer, Kernel and BIOS - Dublin, Ireland

Software Engineer, Kernel and BIOS - Dublin, Ireland

Arista Networks

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges.

At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We  believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.

Job Description

Who You'll Work With

The Platform team who are the programmers working closest to the hardware and programming chips.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 developments in the Linux Kernel and integrating them for our internal use, both for development and as a base for Arista EOS to run on. This work often involves extending and developing new kernel features related to functionality that we rely on and working with the kernel community to get them integrated upstream. Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU/BIOS vendors to integrate their stacks into EOS. You will also be responsible for bringup and qualification of these components into our hardware products.

What You'll Do

Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Kernel/BIOS software, the role will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.

Arista Software Engineering prides itself on a supportive and growth oriented culture. Over time, as your interests change, coupled with evolving business needs you will have the opportunity to switch from Kernel and BIOS to other areas, if you like.

Qualifications
  • BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering 
  • 5+ years experience of C or C++ and Python.
  • Hands-on experience working on Linux Kernel software is a plus.
  • Understanding of IP networking and/or distributed systems is a plus.
  • Applied understanding of software engineering principles.
  • Strong problem solving and software troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to design a solution and implement it successfully.
Additional Information

This role is a B2B 12 month rolling contract. 

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