Embedded Linux Engineer

DataTech Recruitment; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 650 000 - 900 000; Full time

Job summary

A technology recruitment firm in South Africa seeks an experienced Embedded Linux Engineer to develop and maintain software on embedded Linux platforms. The role involves configuring and debugging the Linux kernel and managing device trees. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, strong skills in C/C++, and a degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering. This hybrid position offers hands-on involvement in a technically challenging environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years relevant experience at a mid-level or above.
• Strong C/C++ development experience on Linux.
• Hands-on Linux kernel experience including configuration and patch management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain software on embedded Linux platforms.
• Configure, maintain and debug the Linux kernel.
• Manage and configure device trees and bootloaders.

Skills

Embedded Linux development

C/C++

Linux Kernel

Yocto/Buildroot

Git version control

Hardware interaction

Education

Degree or diploma in Electrical or Electronic Engineering

Tools

Linux debugging tools

Device drivers

Job description

Embedded Linux Engineer required in Edenvale.

This role is suited to an experienced Embedded Linux Developer who enjoys working close to the hardware and solving real-world technical problems. You will build, maintain and improve embedded Linux platforms that are used in production systems deployed internationally.

You will join a growing engineering team supporting a US-based operation with strong South African roots. The work is hands‑on, technically challenging and varied, with exposure to embedded software, hardware interaction and full platform ownership.

Tech Stack: Embedded Linux, C/C++, Linux Kernel, Yocto / Buildroot, device drivers, bootloaders, Git.

Type: Hybrid (3 days in office per week).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain software on embedded Linux platforms
• Configure, maintain and debug the Linux kernel
• Manage and configure device trees and bootloaders
• Perform hardware and software co-debugging
• Develop and maintain the build pipeline
• Write and maintain technical documentation
• Review software, hardware designs and schematics
• Test embedded systems and support fault finding
• Collaborate closely with engineers across disciplines
• Support training and knowledge sharing within the team

Requirements:

Essential:

• Minimum 5 years relevant experience at a mid-level or above
• Degree or diploma in Electrical or Electronic Engineering (preferred)
• Strong C/C++ development experience on Linux
• Solid experience with Git version control
• Hands‑on Linux kernel experience including:
• Kernel configuration and patch management
• Build systems such as Yocto or Buildroot
• Device tree configuration
• Linux device drivers
• Kernel debugging and profiling tools
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics
• Basic electronic fault finding skillsProven hardware and software debugging experience

Advantageous:

• Schematic peer review experience
• Networking knowledge including TCP/IP and cellular modem integration
• Experience with CAN, SPI and RS232 protocols
• Python scripting for tooling and automation
• Rust experience
• Embedded testing experience
• Familiarity with the Variscite ecosystem

If you enjoy working on embedded systems that move beyond theory into real deployments, and you want to be part of a technically strong engineering team, this role is worth a conversation. Apply with your CV and a short note outlining your availability and experience.