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Virtual Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Livingston, NJ · On-site

$165K - $242K/yr

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

Linux Kernel (custom build), Ubuntu * Intel/AMD/ARM CPUs, Nvidia GPUs, DPUs, Infiniband and ... Strong C programming skills with the ability to write maintainable and upstream-quality code.

JD Kernel - Developer Engineer Skill Linux, C, C++ Mandatory Board Bring Up Mandatory Kernel Mandatory BSP , Android HAL/HIDL Mandatory Kernel Driver - Development Mandatory Automated Unit Testing ...

JD Kernel - Developer Engineer Skill Linux, C, C++ Mandatory Board Bring Up Mandatory Kernel Mandatory BSP , Android HAL/HIDL Mandatory Kernel Driver - Development Mandatory Automated Unit Testing ...

Senior Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$143.90K - $189.70K/yr

Being part of the Linux kernel group, working on developing the device driver for our NICs ... developer testing, and post-GA support. * Drive complex technical issues to closure that may occur ...

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Virtual Linux Kernel Developer information

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$101K

$149.1K

$176K

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 the United States is $149,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $165,000.00 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.

More about Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities with the most Virtual Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Virtual Linux Kernel Developer jobs include:
Embedded Linux Kernel & MIPI Validation Engineer

Embedded Linux Kernel & MIPI Validation Engineer

Quest Global

San Jose, CA • On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Quest Global rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 349 rated engineering


Job description

Embedded Linux Kernel & MIPI Validation Engineer

San Jose, CA, USA

Full-Time

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled engineer with deep expertise in MIPI protocol validation, SoC bring-up, and Linux kernel driver development. The ideal candidate will have strong hands‐on experience working with display/camera interfaces, high‐speed PHYs, and system-level debugging on real hardware. This role requires working across hardware, firmware, and kernel layers to ensure robust interface performance and system stability.

Key Responsibilities

MIPI Protocol Validation

  • Perform deep-dive validation of MIPI D‐PHY, C‐PHY, DSI‐2, and CSI‐2 protocols.
  • Use oscilloscopes, protocol analyzers, and logic analyzers to verify:
    • Packet formats and ECC/CRC validation
    • HS/LP transitions and timing parameters
    • Lane calibration, skew, and signal integrity
  • Debug PHY issues involving voltage swing, termination, clocking, and synchronization.

Cross‐Platform Bring‐Up

  • Lead initial power‐on, bootloader bring-up, and low‐level hardware initialization for new boards.
  • Work across various SoC platforms to validate connectivity, pinmux, clocks, resets, and peripheral initialization.
  • Conduct board‐level electrical checks and assist with hardware debugging.

Linux Kernel Development

  • Develop, port, and optimize Linux kernel drivers in DRM/KMS (Display) or V4L2 (Camera).
  • Debug kernel crashes, panel bring‐up issues, and synchronization errors.
  • Work with kernel logs, traces, and low-level kernel subsystems.

Display & Camera Interface Management

  • Implement and debug DSI Command Mode (DBI) and Video Mode (DPI) bring-up.
  • Validate TE (Tearing Effect) synchronization and frame update behavior.
  • Work with camera sensor initialization, link validation, and frame data integrity.

System Configuration & Debug

  • Develop and maintain .dtsi / .dtbo device tree files for:
    • Power sequencing
    • Reset trees
    • PLL and high‐speed clock configuration
    • GPIO/pinmux definitions
  • Troubleshoot system-level issues across hardware, kernel, and middleware layers.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Strong understanding of MIPI D‐PHY, C‐PHY, DSI, CSI‐2 standards.
  • Experience with oscilloscope probing, high-speed signal validation, and SI fundamentals.
  • Proficiency in Linux kernel debugging, driver development, and board bring‐up.
  • Hands-on experience with protocol analyzers, logic analyzers, and lab equipment.
  • Ability to read schematics, PCB layouts, and debug electrical-level issues.
  • Experience with display panels, camera sensors, or SoC multimedia subsystems.

Good to Have

  • Experience with panel timing, display drivers, LED drivers, or imaging pipelines.
  • Understanding of bootloaders (U-Boot), firmware initialization, or RTOS.
  • Exposure to scripting (Python, Bash) for automation or test frameworks.
  • Knowledge of signal integrity concepts (impedance, skew, jitter, eye diagram basics).

Company Description

Quest Global delivers world-class end-to-end engineering solutions by leveraging our deep industry knowledge and digital expertise. By bringing together technologies and industries, alongside the contributions of diverse individuals and their areas of expertise, we are able to solve problems better, faster. This multi-dimensional approach enables us to solve the most critical and large-scale challenges across the aerospace & defense, automotive, energy, hi-tech, healthcare, medical devices, rail and semiconductor industries.
We are looking for humble geniuses, who believe that engineering has the potential to make the impossible possible; innovators, who are not only inspired by technology and innovation, but also perpetually driven to design, develop, and test as a trusted partner for Fortune 500 customers. As a team of remarkably diverse engineers, we recognize that what we are really engineering is a brighter future for us all. If you want to contribute to meaningful work and be part of an organization that truly believes when you win, we all win, and when you fail, we all learn, then we’re eager to hear from you.