Linux Kernel Engineer

Job Title

Linux Kernel Engineer

Role Summary

Developer role on a system software engineering team responsible for Linux kernel and platform enablement for x86-based SoCs across presilicon (FPGA/emulation) and postsilicon environments. Works with silicon architects, SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to deliver OS support and early platform bring-up.

Experience Level

Senior — requires several years of relevant Linux kernel and platform bring-up experience (see Education Requirements for specific years).

Responsibilities

The engineer will implement, debug, and maintain kernel components and support early hardware validation and productization.

• Develop and maintain Linux kernel modules, device drivers, and kernel subsystems for x86 platforms.
• Support platform bring-up and early boot enablement in presilicon (FPGA/emulation) and postsilicon environments.
• Use FPGA platforms and simulation environments for early hardware validation and driver development.
• Integrate kernel functionality with ACPI and hardware interface protocols; debug boot, initialization, and runtime issues.
• Backport patches, apply security updates, and maintain stable kernel branches for productization.
• Contribute patches to upstream Linux kernel subsystems when applicable.
• Optimize system performance via power/performance tuning, memory improvements, and profiling.
• Maintain kernel configuration and build environments using Git-based workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (SoC design, firmware, platform engineering) to define kernel/OS requirements.

Requirements

Key technical must-haves and preferred skills for the role.

• Must-have: Strong Linux kernel development experience with emphasis on x86 platform architecture and kernel drivers/subsystems.
• Must-have: Hands-on experience developing and debugging kernel drivers and subsystems (device drivers, memory, power/ACPI, scheduler/interrupts, virtualization/I/O).
• Must-have: Experience with platform bring-up, early boot debugging, and system-level troubleshooting in presilicon and postsilicon contexts.
• Must-have: Experience using FPGA/emulation platforms for early validation and driver development.
• Must-have: Proficiency with Git-based development workflows and kernel build/configuration systems.
• Must-have: Strong low-level debugging skills and familiarity with kernel diagnostic tools and performance analysis techniques.
• Nice-to-have: Experience submitting or maintaining upstream Linux kernel patches and working with upstream maintainers.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with system performance analysis, power optimization, and platform productization.

Education Requirements

Minimum: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field plus 5+ years relevant experience; OR Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field plus 3+ years relevant experience.

About the Company

Company: Intel Corporation

Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, USA

Intel Corporation is a leading multinational technology company known for its innovative semiconductor solutions, including microprocessors, artificial intelligence accelerators, and memory products. Headquartered in the United States, Intel focuses on cutting-edge technology and a collaborative working environment, driving advancements in semiconductor manufacturing to meet global demands. The company emphasizes professional development and aims to shape the future of technology through groundbreaking designs.