Kernel Developer - KernelCare ELS team

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Kernel Developer - KernelCare ELS team based in South Africa.

This role offers the opportunity to work on critical Linux security technologies that help organizations maintain secure and reliable systems. You will contribute to extending the lifecycle of enterprise Linux environments by developing, adapting, and validating kernel patches. The position combines deep systems programming expertise with practical problem-solving across Linux distributions and kernel versions. You will work with experienced engineers on challenging security and infrastructure projects with real-world impact. This is an opportunity for a developer who enjoys debugging complex systems, improving automation, and maintaining high engineering standards. You will contribute to innovative workflows using modern development tools while keeping full technical ownership of every solution.

Accountabilities: As a Kernel Developer, you will contribute to the development, maintenance, and validation of Linux kernel patches that improve security, stability, and reliability for enterprise systems. You will work closely with the kernel team to investigate upstream changes, resolve technical challenges, and enhance development workflows.

Investigate upstream Linux kernel security fixes, bug fixes, and related changes to identify dependencies and implementation requirements.

Backport Linux kernel patches to supported older RPM- and Debian-based distributions.

Resolve compatibility issues and conflicts between upstream kernel versions and target enterprise distributions.

Build and rebuild Linux kernel source and binary packages in reproducible development environments.

Validate patched kernels through focused testing, build verification, regression analysis, and quality checks.

Improve patch preparation, build, and validation workflows using automation tools and programming languages such as Python, Go, or Shell.

Use AI-assisted and agentic development tools responsibly while reviewing and validating generated code, analysis, and documentation.

Document technical decisions, approaches, and trade-offs for internal knowledge sharing.

Participate in code reviews and collaborate with kernel engineering teams to maintain high-quality solutions.

Requirements

The ideal candidate is an experienced Linux systems developer with strong kernel development knowledge and a passion for solving complex infrastructure challenges. You should have hands-on experience with low-level programming, debugging, patch management, and building reliable software systems.

Strong proficiency in C programming and Linux debugging techniques.

Practical experience with Linux kernel development, patching, or backporting.

Experience using Git, GNU build tools, and standard Linux development utilities.

Experience building Linux kernels or Linux distribution packages.

Knowledge of automation and scripting using Python, Go, Shell, or similar technologies.

Experience using AI-assisted or agentic development tools with a strong approach to validating generated outputs.

Ability to communicate technical decisions clearly and explain engineering trade-offs.

Strong ownership mindset, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.

Intermediate or higher English proficiency, both written and spoken.

Nice to have:

Experience with RPM/SRPM or Debian kernel packaging.

Background in security patching, CVE analysis, or extended lifecycle software maintenance.

Familiarity with Docker, QEMU, Jenkins, or continuous integration systems.

Experience designing kernel tests, analyzing core dumps, or investigating system regressions.

Benefits

Fully remote work environment with flexible working hours and the ability to work from anywhere worldwide.

Opportunity to work on challenging Linux security and open-source infrastructure projects.

Professional development opportunities and continuous learning support.

Paid vacation allowance, national holidays, and unlimited sick leave.

Compensation support for private medical insurance.

Co-working space and gym/sports reimbursement.

Education and learning budget.

Opportunity to receive recognition and rewards for innovative ideas with patent potential.

Collaborative environment with experienced engineers working on impactful technologies.

How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!  Why Apply Through Jobgether?    Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.     #LI-CL1