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Virtual Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Nightwing

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Design, implement, and maintain enterprise Linux infrastructure, including servers, virtual ... Optimize system performance through kernel tuning, performance profiling, and resource optimization.

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Hanover, MD

... Linux kernel and drivers -Experience with malware analysis -Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Hanover, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Annapolis Junction, MD

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

Yes LINUX OS ENGINEER YOUR IMPACT Own your opportunity to support national defense. Your work will ... virtual, and cloud environments, including kernel updates, service configurations, and performance ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Springfield, VA

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

Yes LINUX OS ENGINEER YOUR IMPACT Own your opportunity to support national defense. Your work will ... virtual, and cloud environments, including kernel updates, service configurations, and performance ...

GDIT

Linux OS Engineer - TS/SCI

Washington, DC

$147.29K - $199.28K/yr

Yes LINUX OS ENGINEER YOUR IMPACT Own your opportunity to support national defense. Your work will ... virtual, and cloud environments, including kernel updates, service configurations, and performance ...

TekSynap

Linux OS Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

... and virtual) across dev/test/prod. • Implement standard OS baselines, golden images, and ... patching and kernel updates with maintenance windows and rollback plans; validate health post ...

New

Freddie Mac

Engineer, Senior (Linux/AWS)

Mclean, VA · On-site

... kernel patching, maintenance, and systems integration. * Automation development experience including application of Infrastructure as Code and DevOps principles using SDLC best practices.

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Virtual Linux Kernel Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$114.4K

$168.8K

$199.3K

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for virtual linux kernel developer in Washington, DC is $168,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,600.00 and $186,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Virtual Linux Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you

Senior Linux Systems Engineer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Senior Linux Systems Engineer-Nightwing (Sterling, VA)
Nightwing is seeking a Senior Linux Systems Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure, scalable Linux-based infrastructure supporting mission-critical systems. This role requires deep expertise in Red Hat Enterprise Linux environments, infrastructure architecture, automation, virtualization, and cybersecurity compliance.
The ideal candidate will provide technical leadership in the engineering, integration, and optimization of enterprise Linux platforms, ensuring high availability, performance, and security across on-premises and hybrid environments.
CLEARANCE: TS/SCI with POLY
Responsibilities
Infrastructure Engineering & Architecture
  • Design, implement, and maintain enterprise Linux infrastructure, including servers, virtual machines, storage systems, and network-integrated services.

  • Engineer high-availability and resilient Linux platforms supporting mission-critical applications.

  • Architect and deploy hardened Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems aligned with organizational security standards.

  • Lead infrastructure modernization initiatives, including OS upgrades, platform migrations, and lifecycle management of hardware and systems.

Automation & Platform Engineering
  • Design and implement automation frameworks and workflows for system provisioning, configuration management, patching, and compliance.

  • Develop repeatable deployment templates and infrastructure automation pipelines to ensure consistent and secure system builds.

  • Implement automated STIG and security compliance validation processes across Linux environments.

System Integration & Virtualization
  • Engineer and manage virtualized infrastructure environments, integrating Linux systems with virtualization platforms and enterprise storage solutions.

  • Integrate Linux platforms with identity services, monitoring systems, and security tools.

  • Support hybrid environments by integrating on-prem infrastructure with cloud platforms and AWS workloads.

Performance, Reliability & Monitoring
  • Optimize system performance through kernel tuning, performance profiling, and resource optimization.

  • Implement and integrate systems into enterprise monitoring platforms to ensure visibility and proactive issue detection.

  • Design solutions that improve system reliability, scalability, and service availability.

Advanced Troubleshooting & Technical Leadership
  • Provide advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis for complex infrastructure and network-related issues.

  • Guide technical teams in resolving system failures and recurring performance issues.

  • Lead or support infrastructure projects including major OS upgrades, architecture improvements, and system enhancements.

Security & Compliance
  • Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls in accordance with industry and organizational standards.

  • Ensure Linux systems remain compliant with security frameworks such as STIG and NIST guidelines.

  • Support vulnerability remediation, continuous monitoring, and security hardening across enterprise systems.

Infrastructure Operations Support
  • Support physical infrastructure activities, including rack installations, cabling coordination, and hardware troubleshooting.

  • Assist with infrastructure planning including rack layout, power distribution considerations, and system integration.

  • Collaborate with network, security, and cloud teams to support integrated infrastructure operations.

Required Skills & Experience
  • 8+ years of experience in Linux systems administration, infrastructure engineering, or platform engineering.

  • Extensive hands-on experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) including design, deployment, administration, and troubleshooting.

  • Strong experience designing and managing virtualized Linux infrastructure environments.

  • Proven experience implementing automation and configuration management solutions (e.g., Ansible, Puppet, Salt, Chef).

  • Experience optimizing Linux systems for performance, scalability, and high availability.

  • Hands-on experience implementing security hardening and compliance frameworks such as STIG and NIST guidelines.

  • Experience integrating Linux systems with identity services and enterprise infrastructure components.

  • Strong experience troubleshooting complex system, network, and infrastructure issues.

  • Working knowledge of network protocols, network troubleshooting, and system performance analysis.

  • Excellent communication and documentation skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience managing or integrating enterprise monitoring platforms (e.g., ELK stack, Splunk, or similar).

  • Familiarity with network infrastructure technologies including switches, routers, and firewalls.

  • Experience working with hybrid cloud environments and AWS infrastructure.

  • Experience supporting physical infrastructure installations and hardware lifecycle management.

  • Knowledge of DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code methodologies.

  • Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced environments with evolving mission requirements.

Key Competencies
  • Infrastructure architecting and engineering

  • Linux platform expertise

  • Automation and systems integration

  • Security and compliance engineering

  • Performance optimization and troubleshooting

  • Cross-team technical collaboration

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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