Linux Kernel Software Engineer

Arista Networks; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Arista Networks is seeking a Linux Kernel Engineer in Austin, Texas. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS, developing new features, and collaborating with the hardware team on CPU components.

The ideal candidate has extensive C programming experience, troubleshooting skills in the Linux kernel, and a solid understanding of networking principles. This position promotes independent work as well as collaboration with different teams.

Qualifications

• 3+ years experience with a BS, or 2+ years with an MS, or 1+ year with a Ph.D.
• Extensive experience programming in C.
• Significant hands-on experience with the Linux kernel.

Responsibilities

• Track developments in the Linux Kernel and identify relevant features.
• Develop Kernel features and tests using C, C++, and Python.
• Work with engineers to qualify new Kernel hardware.

Skills

Expert knowledge of C

Programming in C++

Programming in Python

Troubleshooting the Linux kernel

Understanding of IP networking

Problem solving skills

Software design skills

Ability to work independently

Education

BS in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering

Job description

Job Description

Who You’ll Work With

Arista’s Linux Kernel team is responsible for developing and maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS. This includes keeping pace with the latest developments in the upstream Linux Kernel community, and integrating new versions of the upstream kernel as they become available. This work also involves designing and implementing new Linux kernel features, and working with the upstream kernel development community to get these changes incorporated into the mainline Linux kernel code base.

Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU vendors to integrate their kernel support into EOS. You will also help to bring‑up and qualify new CPUs in our hardware products.

Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Linux Kernel software, your work will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine‑tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.

What You’ll Do

• Track ongoing developments in the Linux Kernel and identify features and functionality of interest to Arista for our products and for internal development needs.
• Develop and maintain EOS Kernel features and tests using C, C++ and Python, review and contribute to functional and design specifications. Build automated tests and test infrastructure to validate the features.
• Work with hardware engineers and vendors to qualify new Kernel dependent hardware components like CPUs and NICs for integration into Arista products.
• Work with the Kernel community to contribute features back to the mainline.
• Work with a team of Kernel engineers to integrate new versions of the Kernel for use in EOS and our internal development.
• Provide technical leadership across features, projects and tools.
• Work with Customer Support Engineers and customers to analyze, mitigate and fix problems in customer networks.
• Work with the System Test Engineers to analyze problems found in their tests and provide fixes for those problems.
• Mentor new and junior engineers to bring them up to speed in Arista’s software development environment.

Qualifications

• BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 3 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 2 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 1 year experience, or equivalent work experience
• Expert knowledge of and extensive experience programming in C required. Knowledge of C++ and Python is desirable.
• Significant hands‑on experience troubleshooting issues, fixing bugs and developing features in the Linux kernel.
• Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture, design and implementation.
• Familiarity with the upstream Linux community’s patching process and procedures.
• Understanding of IP networking architecture, design and principles
• Applied understanding of modern software engineering principles and practices
• Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong software design and implementation skills.
• Ability to work independently and in small teams.
• Ability to communicate articulately, and document your designs and implementations clearly, and concisely.
• Familiarity with the x86 and ARM CPU architectures

Additional Information

Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. Arista makes all hiring and employment‑related decisions in a non‑discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.