Principal Linux Kernel Engineer – NVIDIA CPU Server Platforms

at Nvidia

📍 Santa Clara, United States

USD 272,000-431,200 per year

SENIOR

✅ On-site

Tech Stack
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AI Communication @ 6 Linux @ 6 Networking Security

Details

NVIDIA is developing the next era of computing through accelerated computing and AI. As a Principal Linux Kernel Engineer, you will lead the development and execution of an upstream-first Linux kernel strategy for NVIDIA CPU server platforms. You will influence hardware architecture, guide kernel development, and collaborate with experts to implement next-generation CPU and SoC architectures.

Responsibilities

Own and drive the Linux kernel strategy for NVIDIA CPU platforms using an upstream-first development model.
Lead upstream enablement of NVIDIA CPU platforms across major Linux kernel subsystems while minimizing downstream maintenance.
Track Linux kernel evolution and drive technical roadmaps across memory management, scheduling, virtualization, PCIe, ACPI, RAS, CXL, networking, filesystems, and security.
Partner with CPU architects, hardware designers, firmware teams, and software engineers to influence hardware architecture and interfaces for clean, upstream-friendly Linux support.
Represent NVIDIA in the Linux open-source community by collaborating with subsystem maintainers, driving upstream reviews, and advocating for NVIDIA technologies.
Lead the architecture and implementation of Linux kernel support for next-generation CPU and SoC features.
Identify opportunities to simplify software through hardware and firmware design improvements.
Establish best practices for upstream development, code quality, kernel review processes, and long-term maintainability.
Mentor engineers across the organization.
Collaborate with Linux distributions, ecosystem partners, and internal engineering teams to enable NVIDIA CPU platforms and shape future Linux kernel capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
14+ years of experience developing Linux kernel software.
Deep expertise in Linux kernel internals and multiple kernel subsystems.
Recognized contributor with an established reputation in the Linux kernel community, including experience reviewing and influencing upstream kernel development.
Strong understanding of CPU architecture, memory management, interrupts, scheduling, synchronization, virtualization, ACPI, PCIe, and device drivers.
Experience leading complex cross-functional software initiatives.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence technical direction across engineering organizations.

Preferred Qualifications

Current or former Linux kernel maintainer for a major upstream Linux kernel subsystem.
Experience enabling Linux on new CPU or SoC architectures.
Familiarity with ARM64 or server-class CPU platforms.

Benefits

Base salary range of USD 272,000–431,250 per year, determined by location, experience, and compensation for similar positions.
Eligibility for equity and benefits.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer.

Applications will be accepted at least until August 9, 2026. This posting is for an existing vacancy. NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.