Distinguished Engineer - Linux and Kernel System

Location: US, CA, Santa Clara, US, TX, Austin, US, CO, Remote, US, OR, Remote, US, NC, Durham, US, CA, Remote

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

We are looking for a Linux Kernel Engineer with strong standing in the upstream community to join the CPU/SoC System Software team. In this role, you will help define and drive an upstream-first development model for NVIDIA’s CPUs and SoCs, ensuring that Linux support for new silicon lands in mainline upstream as the primary vehicle for enablement. This role is deeply connected with the Linux community, where you will work directly with subsystem maintainers and community leaders to design and upstream the kernel infrastructure needed for next-generation platforms! The goal is to ensure NVIDIA platforms are first-class citizens in upstream Linux at launch, with clean, maintainable implementations that align with the strategic direction of the kernel.

Beyond kernel enablement, you will help bring upstream architectural insight directly into silicon design, influencing the capabilities and interfaces of future data center CPUs and SoCs. Your perspective from the Linux ecosystem will play a key role in crafting system architecture for the next generation of AI and cloud infrastructure! The work sits at the intersection of kernel architecture, hardware design, and large-scale infrastructure, with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully both upstream and internally. At NVIDIA, we work, think, and learn as a team. We value deep technical expertise, thoughtful engineering, and collaboration with the broader open-source ecosystem.

What you’ll be doing:

• Drive upstream-first Linux enablement for NVIDIA CPUs and SoCs.

• Design and upstream kernel infrastructure required for new silicon platforms.

• Work directly with Linux subsystem maintainers and the broader community to land and maintain upstream support.

• Own the lifecycle of kernel features—from architectural design and implementation to upstream acceptance and long-term maintenance.

• Collaborate closely with architecture, GPU, networking, and firmware teams to define system software capabilities for future platforms.

• Bring insights from the Linux community into NVIDIA to influence hardware interfaces and platform architecture.

• Contribute technically to the Linux ecosystem through code, reviews, design discussions, and long-term stewardship of upstream functionality.

What we need to see:

• B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 18+ years of experience in systems software or Linux kernel development.

• Strong reputation within the Linux community (e.g., subsystem maintainer, frequent upstream contributor, or recognized technical leader).

• Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals and upstream development practices.

• We are seeking proven experience upstreaming complex kernel features and working with subsystem maintainers.

• Ability to bridge hardware architecture and kernel design.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across open-source communities and internal engineering teams.

• Persistence and technical rigor when debugging complex system-level issues.

Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 320,000 USD - 488,750 USD.Applications for this job will be accepted at least until March 16, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy. 

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.