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Software Engineer Kernel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kaav Inc

Systems Software Engineer (Core OS)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$183K - $217K/yr

A basic knowledge of low level programming / kernel would be beneficial. Also, being familiar with ... software Bachelor's degree in CS/CE/EE or equivalent experience/skills

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Waymo

Senior Software Engineer, Linux Kernel

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

Work on a small team of System Software and Linux Kernel Engineers to develop system software components from early prototyping to production launch of driverless vehicles * Develop and test Linux ...

NVIDIA

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$142K - $188K/yr

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 ...

Nvidia

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

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 ...

Etched

Kernel Driver Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Collaborate closely with hardware engineers throughout the ASIC design process.. * Implement driver ... kernel memory mapping, page table configuration, and IOMMU. * Familiarity with hardware-software co ...

Etched

Kernel Driver Software Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Collaborate closely with hardware engineers throughout the ASIC design process.. * Implement driver ... kernel memory mapping, page table configuration, and IOMMU. * Familiarity with hardware-software co ...

Apply Early

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Software Engineer Kernel information

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$50.5K

$134K

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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.

Kernel Software Developer

Texas State Library and Archives Commision

Apopka, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

KERNEL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
Apopka, Florida
KERNEL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
  • As a Kernel Software Developer at our global client, you will design, implement, and maintain key subsystems in the kernel, working across Windows, Linux and MacOS environments.
  • This role is ideal for engineers who thrive close to the hardware/software boundary, enjoy solving complex low-level problems, and want to contribute to a product with real-world security impact.

Core Responsibilities
  • Develop, debug, and test kernel-level code in C with a focus on performance and security.
  • Work on low-level system APIs and validate system functionality from user space.
  • Design, develop, and maintain device drivers for subsystems including USB, networking,graphics, storage, and power management.
  • Contribute to the design and maintenance of CI/CD pipelines for kernel and driver code.Port, configure, and maintain Linux distributions for custom platforms.

Qualifications:
  • 5- 7+ years of professional software development experience.
  • Strong proficiency in C programming and low-level systems development.
  • Hands-on experience with Windows, Linux and/or MacOS kernel internals.
  • Solid understanding of computer architecture and server hardware platforms.
  • Experience with system software development in C and Python.

Apply