ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Virtual Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Mountain View, CA

Zoomcar

Principal Software Developer Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$170K - $210K/yr

Take responsibility for developing networking-related features for the FortiSwitch Virtual Machine ... Strong knowledge of Linux kernel programming, including system calls and custom device drivers

New

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsVirtual Linux Kernel Developer JobsVirtual Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Mountain View, CA

Virtual Linux Kernel Developer information

See Mountain View, CA salary details

$119.1K

$175.8K

$207.6K

How much do virtual linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual linux kernel developer in Mountain View, CA is $175,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $161,000.00 and $194,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a virtual Linux kernel developer do?

A Virtual Linux Kernel Developer specializes in designing, developing, and maintaining the core components of the Linux operating system, particularly in virtualized environments. This includes working on kernel modules, optimizing performance for virtual machines, and fixing bugs related to virtualization technologies. They often collaborate with open-source communities and contribute to projects that enhance Linux's compatibility with different hypervisors and cloud platforms. Their role is critical in ensuring the efficiency, security, and stability of Linux systems running in virtualized settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a virtual Linux kernel developer?

To thrive as a Virtual Linux Kernel Developer, you need deep expertise in Linux kernel architecture, C programming, and operating system concepts, typically supported by a degree in Computer Science or related fields. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, debugging tools such as GDB, and experience with virtualization technologies (e.g., KVM, QEMU) are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective remote communication distinguish outstanding professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for developing robust kernel modules, diagnosing complex issues, and collaborating efficiently within distributed development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by virtual Linux kernel developers when debugging complex virtualization issues?

Virtual Linux Kernel Developers often encounter intricate challenges when debugging issues related to virtualization, such as timing discrepancies, non-deterministic behavior, and compatibility with diverse hypervisors. These issues can be difficult to isolate since they may only manifest under specific workloads or hardware configurations. Collaboration with systems engineers, QA teams, and sometimes upstream kernel communities is usually essential to identify root causes and implement robust solutions. Being comfortable with low-level debugging tools, kernel logs, and patch testing in virtual environments is key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Virtual Linux Kernel Developer vs Virtual Linux System Programmer?

AspectVirtual Linux Kernel DeveloperVirtual Linux System Programmer
Primary FocusDeveloping and maintaining Linux kernel codeWriting and optimizing system-level software for Linux
Required SkillsC programming, kernel architecture, debugging kernel modulesC, C++, system calls, device drivers
Work EnvironmentCollaborative development, version control, Linux environmentsSystem integration, testing, Linux-based systems
Industry UsageOpen-source projects, tech companies, hardware vendorsIT services, embedded systems, enterprise solutions

While both roles involve Linux and system-level programming, Virtual Linux Kernel Developers focus on kernel code development, whereas Virtual Linux System Programmers work on system software and application interfaces. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Mountain View, CA?

For Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Mountain View, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Mountain View, CA are hiring for Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Mountain View, CA with the most Virtual Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Virtual Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Mountain View, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 32% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 66% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $175,845 per year, or $84.5 per hour.

Linux Peripheral Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Qualcomm
Technology, Communication and Media • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Qualcommexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and integrate peripheral subsystems on Qualcomm platforms, focusing on USB, I2C, I3C, SPI, and MIPI interfaces.

  • Work closely with customers to review peripheral bus requirements, analyze system-level use cases, and translate those into software design and implementation.

  • Perform hands-on kernel and driver development, debugging, and optimization in Linux and Android environments, including on-site customer support to resolve peripheral-related issues.

Qualcomm rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Applications Engineering
General Summary:
As a Linux Peripheral Software Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and customer support of peripheral subsystems on Qualcomm platforms. This role focuses on USB and low-speed peripheral interfaces such as I2C, I3C, SPI, as well as MIPI-based protocols, enabling robust connectivity and functionality across customer products.
You will work closely with customers to review peripheral bus requirements, analyze system-level use cases, and translate those requirements into software design and implementation. The role involves hands-on kernel and driver development, debugging, and optimization in Linux and Android environments, as well as on-site customer support to bring-up, validate, and resolve peripheral-related issues on development platforms.
You will be involved in customizing, enabling, and optimizing Qualcomm software for customer programs, supporting new hardware bring-up, and troubleshooting complex protocol-level issues across USB, QUP-based peripherals, and MIPI interfaces. Strong collaboration with hardware, architecture, validation, and customer engineering teams is expected.
The ideal candidate has strong C/C++ programming skills, solid experience with Linux kernel and device driver development, and deep familiarity with peripheral protocols and buses. The candidate should be self-driven, capable of owning customer issues end-to-end, and comfortable working across global teams while delivering documentation, training, and technical guidance to customers.
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
  • 3+ year of any combination of academic and/or work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
  • 3+ year of any combination of academic and/or work experience with debugging techniques.
  • Proven experience as a Linux Kernel Engineer or similar role.
  • Strong knowledge of Linux kernel architecture and build tools.
  • Strong understanding of Computer Architecture - Caches, Bus, Memory is required.
  • Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git).
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • The preferred candidate should have knowledge in the following areas:
  • Camera, Display, AR/VR, Video, Graphics, BSP software
  • Strong understanding of system performance tuning and optimization.
  • Extensive experience with Linux kernel development, debugging, and profiling tools.
  • Proficiency in programming with real-time operating systems or microkernels, particularly on ARM architectures or Qualcomm's Hexagon microprocessor.
  • Advanced C/C++ programming skills with a minimum of 3 years of experience in embedded software systems. Experience in creating or managing software build environments using tools such as Make, CMake, and Git.
  • Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python).
  • Familiarity with containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with specific Linux distributions and their kernel customization processes (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Rocky Linux).

Physical Requirements
  • Frequently transports between offices, buildings, and campuses up to ½ mile.
  • Frequently transports and installs equipment up to 5 lbs.
  • Performs required tasks at various heights (e.g., standing or sitting).
  • Monitors and utilizes computers and test equipment for more than 6 hours a day.
  • Continuous communication which includes the comprehension of information with colleagues, customers, and vendors both in person and remotely.

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$104,000.00 - $156,000.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

What Qualcomm employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Qualcomm logo

About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985

View All Qualcomm Jobs

Apply