Linux Kernel Engineer

Intel Corporation • Santa Clara, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role involves supporting Linux kernel development and maintenance activities with a focus on x86 architectures, device drivers, and platform software integration. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of senior engineers across both presilicon and postsilicon environments, contributing to kernel development projects while building strong skills in system-level debugging and kernel subsystem development. This position offers an opportunity to work closely with experienced kernel developers, Silicon Architects, SoC design teams, and firmware engineers to support platform enablement for next-generation hardware platforms. The role also provides exposure to upstream Linux kernel development and open-source collaboration while developing deeper expertise in Linux kernel architecture and platform software.

Requirements

• Linux Kernel Fundamentals Solid understanding of Linux kernel fundamentals and experience with kernel module development. Familiarity with kernel build systems, configuration, and development workflows.
• Device Drivers and Platform Software Basic experience developing or modifying Linux device drivers. Understanding of platform bring-up concepts and early boot processes.
• Development Tools Proficiency with Git-based development workflows and standard Linux development tools. Familiarity with kernel patch management and collaborative development environments.
• Programming Skills Strong C/C++ programming skills with familiarity with kernel-level development practices. Basic familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or Bash.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and learn from experienced engineers.
• Detail-oriented with good debugging and troubleshooting capabilities.
• Curiosity and motivation to learn system-level development and kernel technologies.
• Interest in open-source development and continuous learning.
• Commitment to code quality and following established engineering practices.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 4+ years of relevant experience, OR
• Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 2+ years of relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

• Presilicon Exposure Some familiarity with presilicon development environments including: Basic experience with FPGA platforms or development boards. Understanding of hardware validation concepts. Exposure to simulation or emulated development environments.
• Debugging and Testing Experience using kernel debugging tools and performing functional testing or validation.
• Open Source and Upstream Development Contributions to open-source projects or familiarity with Linux kernel patch submission processes. Interest in participating in Linux kernel community discussions or upstream development activities.
• FPGA / Presilicon Experience Hands-on experience with FPGA development boards. Basic familiarity with FPGA development tools such as Quartus or Vivado. Understanding of hardware-software integration concepts.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and maintaining Linux kernel modules and device drivers for x86-based platforms.
• Support platform bring-up activities and early boot enablement under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Work with FPGA platforms and presilicon environments to support hardware enablement and driver development.
• Implement bug fixes and incremental enhancements in kernel subsystems such as power management and hardware interface integrations.
• Apply kernel patches, assist with kernel integration, and support maintenance of stable kernel branches.
• Collaborate with senior developers and hardware teams on driver development and platform enablement tasks.
• Participate in code reviews and follow established kernel development processes and best practices.
• Perform system validation, functional testing, and basic performance analysis of kernel features.
• Debug kernel-level issues using standard debugging tools with mentorship from senior engineers.
• Maintain kernel configurations, build environments, and follow established Git-based development workflows.

Benefits

• We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation.
• Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees