Senior Engineer - Linux Kernel

ALTEN; Austin (TX); Remote; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology consulting company is seeking a Senior Engineer - Systems (Kernel Sustaining) in Austin, TX. In this role, you will maintain Linux kernel components, address CVE vulnerabilities, and mentor junior engineers. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and at least 5 years of software engineering experience, especially in embedded Linux. Strong C programming skills and a solid understanding of Linux kernel architecture are essential. This position requires local residency and offers a remote work option.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of software engineering experience.
• 3+ years of experience with embedded Linux or systems programming.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Maintain Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystems.
• Address CVE vulnerabilities and security issues.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.

Skills

C programming

Linux kernel architecture

Debugging and problem‑solving

Software development lifecycle

Collaboration skills

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Git

Yocto

Buildroot

Job description

About The Opportunity

The Senior Engineer - Systems (Kernel Sustaining) provides technical expertise and leadership for maintaining Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystems. Senior Engineers work independently on complex kernel issues, address CVE vulnerabilities, and mentor junior engineers in kernel development.

Location

Austin, TX (Remote)

In Your Daily Job You Will

Development & Implementation

• Maintain Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystems
• Address CVE vulnerabilities and security issues
• Backport and integrate upstream kernel patches
• Ensure kernel stability, performance, and compatibility
• Write high-quality, maintainable kernel code following Linux standards
• Debug and resolve complex kernel issues

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers
• Participate in code reviews and technical discussions
• Contribute to architecture and design decisions
• Drive technical improvements and best practices
• Lead technical initiatives and small projects

Team Collaboration

• Collaborate effectively with team members and cross‑functional partners
• Work with distributed teams across US, Romania, and India
• Share knowledge through documentation and technical discussions
• Participate in sprint planning, estimation, and retrospectives
• Contribute to team process improvements

Kernel Sustaining Specific

• Address CVE vulnerabilities and security issues
• Backport upstream kernel patches to supported versions
• Maintain kernel drivers and subsystem components
• Ensure kernel stability, performance, and compatibility
• Test kernel changes on multiple hardware platforms
• Work with upstream kernel community when needed

Guide Technical Direction for Kernel Components

• Design solutions for complex kernel problems

How You Will Contribute

Key Skills and Competencies for Succeeding in this Role

• Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of software engineering experience
• 3+ years of experience with embedded Linux or systems programming
• Experience with C programming in production systems
• Strong background in software development lifecycle Technical Skills
• Strong proficiency in C programming
• Solid understanding of Linux kernel architecture
• Experience with embedded systems development
• Knowledge of build systems (Yocto, Buildroot, or similar)
• Strong debugging and problem‑solving skills
• Experience with version control (Git) and code review
• Understanding of software development methodologies (Agile, Scrum)
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis - without requirement for any type of visa sponsorship/transfer, now, or at any time in future. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
• Must be a local resident of Greater Austin, TX, with ability to work on campus.

Domain Knowledge

• Linux kernel development or maintenance
• Device drivers and hardware interfaces
• Kernel subsystems (memory management, process scheduling, etc.)
• Kernel security and CVE management
• Kernel debugging and troubleshooting

Performance Optimization

• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to mentor and guide junior engineers
• Technical writing and documentation skills
• Problem‑solving and analytical thinking
• Self‑directed and proactive
• Attention to detail and quality

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Yocto Project
• Experience with kernel debugging and profiling toolsUnderstanding of kernel security mechanisms
• Open source kernel contributions
• Experience in automotive, aerospace, or industrial sectors
• Knowledge of real‑time kernel features