Software Engineer - Linux Kernel

Job Title

Software Engineer - Linux Kernel

Role Summary

Member of the Kernel & Firmware team within the Open Source Software group, focused on upstream Linux kernel work for Arm platforms. The role concentrates on Energy Aware Scheduling and related power-management features to improve upstream support across Arm processors.

Team is globally distributed and operates in a hybrid mode; this role is based in the Budapest office.

Experience Level

Mid-level. No explicit years-of-experience requirement stated.

Responsibilities

Contribute to upstream Linux kernel scheduling and power-management features, validate on real platforms, and work with the upstream community.

• Design and implement scheduling features (Energy Aware Scheduling and related work).
• Measure performance and power on real hardware platforms.
• Develop and test across software models, FPGA systems, development boards, and shipping products.
• Upstream and maintain kernel features; handle patch submission and review.
• Influence and build consensus within the upstream community to ensure strong scheduler and power-management support on Arm.
• Collaborate with a distributed team in a hybrid working model.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and professional attributes.

• Visible contributor to the Linux kernel and passionate about open source development.
• Commanding knowledge of developing and debugging operating systems.
• Strong understanding of low-level computer system and hardware details.
• Excellent C programming skills; assembly skills desirable.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to write clear documentation and mentor others.
• Good written and spoken English.
• Professional, flexible approach and creative problem-solving mindset.
• No relocation package is available; if visa sponsorship is required, Arm will meet employee sponsorship costs only (spouse/dependants costs are the candidate's responsibility).

Nice-to-have:

• Familiarity with Arm architecture and tools.
• Experience with power-management tradeoffs and techniques.
• Experience in large multi-site software projects and compatibility maintenance.
• Software optimization, instrumentation, and multi-core experience.
• Familiarity with testing methodology, automated testing systems, embedded platforms, or real-time OS.
• Scripting experience (Bash, Python, Perl, etc.).

Education Requirements

Established experience or a Bachelor's (or above) degree in a STEM subject is expected; equivalent practical experience is acceptable.

About the Company

Company: Arm

Headquarters: Cambridge, United Kingdom

ARM is a global leader in semiconductor and software design, driving innovation in computing technology. The company specializes in designing processors and systems that provide the essential building blocks for electronic devices. ARM's architecture is widely used in smartphones, servers, and IoT devices, and its collaborative culture fosters bold thinking, diversity, and high-impact benefits for its talented workforce.