Linux Kernel OS Developer

IBM Computing; Waterford; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

IBM Infrastructure is seeking a capable software engineer to design and implement enhancements in Linux-based systems. The role focuses on low‑level kernel development in C/C++, memory management, and device drivers, with active involvement in open‑source communities.

You will contribute to code quality, performance analysis, and upstream submissions while collaborating with a global team on challenging, enterprise-grade software. Onsite work 3 days per week is required.

Qualifications

• Design and specifications for new enhancements in embedded/Linux environments.
• Ability to write and review kernel-level code in C/C++.
• Experience with memory management, scheduling, interrupts, and device drivers.

Responsibilities

• Design and specifications for new enhancements.
• Code development and bug fixing.
• Performance analysis and optimization.
• Submit code to upstream community repositories.
• Solve client problems and collaborate with teams.

Skills

Linux kernel development

Open source contributions

Operating systems internals

C/C++ proficiency

Tools

Git

Python

Jenkins

Job description

Introduction

At IBM Infrastructure, we design and operate the systems that keep the world running. From high-resiliency mainframes and hybrid cloud platforms to networking, automation, and site reliability. Our teams ensure the performance, security, and scalability that clients and industries depend on every day. Working in Infrastructure & Technology means tackling complex challenges with curiosity and collaboration. You’ll work with diverse technologies and colleagues worldwide to deliver resilient, future-ready solutions that power innovation. With continuous learning, career growth, and a supportive culture, IBM provides the opportunities to build expertise and shape the infrastructure that drives progress.

Your role and responsibilities

As a key member of our new team, you will play a vital role in crafting exceptional software experiences.

Your responsibilities will comprise of design and specifications for new enhancements, coding, problem determination and bug fixing, performance analysis, submitting your code to upstream community repositories, and solving client problems. This position requires working onsite 3 days per week.

Required technical and professional expertise

• Strong desire to work on low-level software development within the Linux operating system kernel (e.g. based on C/C++)

• Interested in joining open source development communities

• Understanding of operating systems internals (e.g. memory management & task scheduling, interrupts, device drivers)

• Experience in source code repository systems (e.g. git), scripting languages (e.g. Python) and test Automation (e.g. Jenkins)

Preferred technical and professional experience

• Previous contributions to Open Source projects Skills in current I/O technologies (e.g. PCI, NVMe, RDMA)

• Skills in IBM Z architecture ("Principles of Operations"), Z assembler and I/O concepts

IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.