Linux Program Manager

Qualcomm; Hyderabad; On-site; INR 1,500,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company based in Hyderabad is looking for a Linux Program Manager to oversee the end-to-end program execution for Linux platform activities. This role requires a strong understanding of Linux development models, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams in various technology domains. Candidates must have 10-15 years of experience in Linux/OSS ecosystems and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Competitive compensation and an inclusive workplace are offered.

Qualifications

• 10-15+ years of experience in Linux/Kernel/Yocto/OSS ecosystems with program leadership.
• Strong understanding of upstream Linux development model.
• Experience working across large cross-functional engineering organizations.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end program execution for Qualcomm Linux platform activities.
• Manage execution across kernel, multimedia, Android, and other organizations.
• Track quality issues across feature requests and ensure cross-team closure.

Skills

Linux development models

Cross-functional leadership

Program management

Risk management

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Yocto

Debian

Ubuntu

Job description

Company

Qualcomm India Private Limited

Job Area

Engineering Services Group, Engineering Services Group > Program Management

General Summary

The Linux Program Manager will own the end‑to‑end program execution for Qualcomm Linux platform activities, with a focus on upstreaming, open‑sourcing, kernel/mainline alignment, distro enablement, and branch lifecycle management. The role requires strong cross‑functional leadership, deep familiarity with Linux development models, and the ability to drive multi‑team execution across kernel, Yocto, Debian/Ubuntu, user‑space frameworks, CI, and product teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Upstreaming Program Management:
• Mainline & Branch Lifecycle Management
• Open‑Source Compliance & Release Coordination
• Linux Distribution Enablement & Ecosystem Alignment
  • Coordinate Yocto, Debian, Ubuntu, and other distro enablement workstreams (graphics, multimedia, AI/ML, connectivity, robotics, etc.).
• Cross‑Functional Program Leadership
  • Manage execution across kernel, multimedia, Android, and other participating orgs. Own program schedules, risk tracking, dependency management, reviews, and executive reporting.
  • Ensure teams follow developer‑first, Linux‑first best practices, including frequent mainline/Yocto upgrades.
• Quality, Testing & Automation Oversight
  • Ensure pre‑merge testing, LBT automation, and continuous validation across mainline and LTS branches. Track quality issues across feature requests and ensure cross‑team closure.

Qualifications & Experience

• 10-15+ years of experience in Linux/Kernel/Yocto/OSS ecosystems, with program or technical leadership roles.
• Strong technical understanding of:
  • Upstream Linux development model (maintainers, reviewers, linux‑next, stable trees).
• Kernel branching policies, mainline alignment, LTS workflows. Yocto/OpenEmbedded, Debian/Ubuntu, and other Linux distros. Open‑source contribution processes, submitting patches, Gerrit/Git workflows. Experience working across large cross‑functional engineering organizations.
• Excellent communication, risk management, and stakeholder management skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 2+ years of Program Management or related work experience.

Applicants

Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e‑mail disability‑[e-mail] or call Qualcomm's toll‑free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries). Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.

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