Senior Engineer - Linux Kernel

Senior Engineer – Linux KernelThe Senior Engineer - Systems (Kernel Sustaining) provides technical expertise and leadership for maintaining Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystems. Senior Engineers work independently on complex kernel issues, address CVE vulnerabilities, and mentor junior engineers in kernel development.In Your Daily Job You Will:Development & ImplementationMaintain Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystemsAddress CVE vulnerabilities and security issuesBackport and integrate upstream kernel patchesEnsure kernel stability, performance, and compatibilityWrite high-quality, maintainable kernel code following Linux standardsDebug and resolve complex kernel issuesTechnical LeadershipProvide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineersParticipate in code reviews and technical discussionsContribute to architecture and design decisionsDrive technical improvements and best practicesLead technical initiatives and small projectsTeam CollaborationCollaborate effectively with team members and cross-functional partnersWork with distributed teams across US, Romania, and IndiaShare knowledge through documentation and technical discussionsParticipate in sprint planning, estimation, and retrospectivesContribute to team process improvementsKernel Sustaining SpecificAddress CVE vulnerabilities and security issuesBackport upstream kernel patches to supported versionsMaintain kernel drivers and subsystem componentsEnsure kernel stability, performance, and compatibilityTest kernel changes on multiple hardware platformsWork with upstream kernel community when neededGuide technical direction for kernel componentsDesign solutions for complex kernel problemsHow You Will ContributeKey skills and competencies for succeeding in this role are:Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field5+ years of software engineering experience3+ years of experience with embedded Linux or systems programmingExperience with C programming in production systemsStrong background in software development lifecycle Technical SkillsStrong proficiency in C programmingSolid understanding of Linux kernel architectureExperience with embedded systems developmentKnowledge of build systems (Yocto, Buildroot, or similar)Strong debugging and problem-solving skillsExperience with version control (Git) and code reviewUnderstanding of software development methodologies (Agile, Scrum)Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis - without requirement for any type of visa sponsorship/transfer, now, or at any time in future. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.Must be a local resident of Greater Austin, TX, with ability to work on campus.Domain KnowledgeLinux kernel development or maintenanceDevice drivers and hardware interfacesKernel subsystems (memory management, process scheduling, etc.)Kernel security and CVE managementKernel debugging and troubleshootingPerformance OptimizationStrong communication and collaboration skillsAbility to mentor and guide junior engineersTechnical writing and documentation skillsProblem-solving and analytical thinkingSelf-directed and proactiveAttention to detail and qualityPreferred QualificationsExperience with Yocto ProjectExperience with kernel debugging and profiling toolsUnderstanding of kernel security mechanismsOpen source kernel contributionsExperience in automotive, aerospace, or industrial sectorsKnowledge of real-time kernel features