What Is a Linux Programmer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As a Linux programmer, your job is to create software for use with Linux operating systems. This could include creating entirely new software, adapting existing software to work with Linux, or performing other tasks as a developer. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of a Linux programmer often requires planning out projects, determining which builds of Linux to test your software on, and translating client requests into specific programming goals. Most Linux programmers work in teams, though you may be the sole programmer if you focus on smaller projects. Some Linux programmers work from home instead of working from an office.

To become a Linux developer, you need to have a variety of qualifications, including the right educational background, career skills, and job experience related to programming and coding. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is often required. As a developer, you must have a strong working knowledge of Linux operating system distributions, application development projects, and familiarity with coding languages such as C and Python. Duties include maintaining code quality, system maintenance, ensuring best responsiveness of applications, assessing risk, and implementing solutions. The ability to work as part of a large group is also very important.