Kernel / Linux Development Engineer

Job Title

Kernel / Linux Development Engineer

Role Summary

Join AMD's server software and solutions engineering team to develop and upstream Linux kernel support for AMD x86-64 architecture features. The role focuses on virtualization, memory management, performance, low-level bringup, and interactions with distributions and open-source partners.

Position is based in Austin; Santa Clara is listed as an additional location. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Experience Level

Senior-level. The posting requests 5+ years of relevant experience in kernel, virtualization, or systems software development.

Responsibilities

Work across the full software development lifecycle to integrate and optimize AMD CPU/SoC features in the Linux ecosystem. Key responsibilities include:

• Design and implement low-level kernel support for x86-64 CPU and SoC features.
• Develop and optimize virtualization support (KVM, hypervisors) and related subsystems.
• Improve memory management, performance, and scalability in the Linux kernel.
• Perform low-level bringup, debugging, and validation using emulators, simulators, and hardware debug tools.
• Engage with upstream Linux and open-source projects: prepare patches, submit on mailing lists, and work with external partners.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure distro compatibility and product integration.

Requirements

Key qualifications and technical skills required or strongly preferred.

• Must-have: 5+ years of professional experience in kernel, systems, or virtualization software development.
• Must-have: Strong expertise in x86 architecture and OS concepts (data structures, ACPI, PCIe).
• Must-have: Advanced C programming for kernel and systems development.
• Must-have: Proven Linux kernel development and debugging experience across subsystems, and familiarity with upstream/kernel workflows.
• Must-have: Proficient with git and the GNU toolchain.
• Preferred / Nice-to-have: Experience with KVM/QEMU, open source VMMs, and x86-64 virtualization extensions.
• Preferred / Nice-to-have: Experience with low-level debug tools, emulators/simulators, IO and core kernel subsystems.
• Preferred / Nice-to-have: Prior contributions to Linux KVM or related open-source projects and experience collaborating with external software partners.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field is specified.

About the Company

Company: Advanced Micro Devices

Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, USA

Advanced Micro Devices, or AMD, is a global semiconductor company that designs and manufactures microprocessors, graphics processors, and related technologies for a variety of computing devices. Known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, AMD's mission is to deliver high-performance computing solutions for AI, data centers, gaming, and embedded applications. They foster a collaborative, inclusive culture focused on creativity and problem-solving, aiming to drive progress and excellence in technology.