NVIDIA is hiring a Distinguished Engineer - Linux and Kernel System to drive an upstream-first development model for our CPUs and SoCs, ensuring Linux support for new silicon lands in mainline. You will be pivotal in designing and upstreaming kernel infrastructure for next-generation platforms and influencing the system architecture for future data center CPUs and SoCs.

What You'll Do

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're Looking For

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.
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.

Technical Stack

Linux Kernel

Team & Environment

You will join the CPU/SoC System Software team. We work, think, and learn as a team, valuing deep technical expertise, thoughtful engineering, and collaboration with the broader open-source ecosystem.

Benefits & Compensation

Compensation range: 320,000 USD - 488,750 USD
Eligible for equity.
Comprehensive benefits package.

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.