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Principal Linux Kernel Engineer – NVIDIA CPU Server Platforms

NVIDIA· Engineer, Sys SW
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Santa Clara, CA$272k - $431.3kFull-timePosted 2mo ago

About the role

Lead the upstream-first Linux kernel strategy and implementation for NVIDIA CPU Server platforms, influencing hardware architecture, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and engaging with the Linux open-source community to enable next-generation CPU/SoC features.

Responsibilities

  • Own and drive the Linux kernel strategy for NVIDIA CPU platforms with an upstream-first development model.
  • Lead the upstream enablement of NVIDIA CPU platforms across major Linux kernel subsystems while minimizing downstream maintenance.
  • Track Linux kernel evolution and drive technical roadmaps across core subsystems including 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, identifying 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 while mentoring 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.

Qualifications

  • 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.

Skills

Required:Linux kernel developmentKernel subsystemsUpstream collaborationCross-functional leadership

Benefits

  • Equity and benefits package.
  • Competitive salaries.
  • Inclusive, diverse work environment.
Last updated Aug 7, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About NVIDIA

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NVIDIA invents the GPU and drives advances in AI, HPC, gaming, creative design, autonomous vehicles, and robotics.

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