Lead SDET: Linux Kernel, CI, Performance & AI Compute

Akamai Technologies GmbH; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Akamai is seeking a Principal SDET / Principal Software Development Engineer in Test to shape the test strategy for its Linux kernel components powering a global AI and Compute platform.

You will design scalable automated testing, validate kernel enhancements, and help port changes to newer kernel versions and VM infrastructure. The role emphasizes reliability, performance, and security across complex infrastructure.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• Experience in C software validation/development with Linux kernel infrastructure and scripting.
• Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals (KVM, virtio drivers, cgroups, memory management, file systems, block IO, ethernet drivers, TCP/IP).
• Extensive experience with Linux kernel debugging tools, performance benchmarking, and CI/test frameworks.
• Motivated self-starter and established technical leader who thrives on collaboration to solve complex infrastructure challenges.

Responsibilities

• Design scalable automated test frameworks to validate performance, reliability, and security of the Akamai Linux kernel for AI and Compute platforms.
• Develop test suites to validate new custom enhancements and port modifications to newer kernel versions and VM infrastructure software.
• Debug, isolate, and troubleshoot complex low-level system issues in testing and simulated production environments.
• Architect and enhance build and test automation to achieve robust, continuous integration and testing.
• Provide technical leadership, set quality standards, and mentor junior team members.

Skills

Linux kernel

C programming

CI / testing frameworks

Scripting: Python/Shell/Perl

Debugging tools

Technical leadership

Self-starter

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Job description

Akamai is seeking a Principal SDET / Principal Software Development Engineer in Test to shape the test strategy for its Linux kernel components powering a global AI and Compute platform.

You will design scalable automated testing, validate kernel enhancements, and help port changes to newer kernel versions and VM infrastructure. The role emphasizes reliability, performance, and security across complex infrastructure.