[Hiring] Linux Kernel Driver, SW Engineering Manager @Cornelis Networks, Inc.

Role Description

We are seeking a Linux Kernel Driver, SW Engineering Manager to lead a team of software engineers responsible for developing, maintaining, and upstreaming Linux kernel driver code in support of high-performance, scalable systems. This role blends deep technical leadership in kernel-level software with people and delivery management, ensuring high code quality, predictable execution, and strong engagement with the open-source community.

You will partner closely with hardware, architecture, firmware, systems, and user-space teams to deliver robust kernel solutions aligned with product and customer requirements, while fostering a culture of technical excellence, ownership, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of Linux (alike) kernel components, including networking/switch drivers, subsystems, and performance-critical paths.
• Provide architectural guidance on kernel interfaces, memory management, interrupt handling, DMA, and concurrency.
• Review and guide complex kernel patches with a focus on correctness, performance, maintainability, and upstream acceptance.
• Drive root-cause analysis and resolution of complex kernel-level issues across development, CI, and customer environments.
• Manage, mentor, and grow a team of Linux (alike) kernel engineers, including goal setting, performance feedback, and career development.
• Build a high-trust, fast-paced engineering culture emphasizing code quality, ownership, and collaboration in a startup environment.
• Partner with recruiting to hire software engineers and grow team capabilities with AI tools.
• Champion upstream development and active participation with the Linux kernel, FreeBSD, and DPDK community (LKML, maintainers, reviews).
• Ensure patches meet community standards and are submitted, reviewed, and maintained upstream where appropriate.
• Manage the team to participate in technical discussions with external open-source stakeholders.
• Work closely with hardware, firmware, networking, systems, QA, and product teams to align kernel work with platform roadmaps.
• Translate product requirements into executable technical plans and milestones.
• Support customer escalations by coordinating deep technical investigations and delivering durable fixes.
• Own planning, prioritization, and execution of kernel deliverables across multiple releases.
• Establish and improve development processes including CI, testing, code review, and release readiness.
• Track progress, risks, and dependencies, communicating clearly with stakeholders.
• Thrive in a startup culture with a strong results focus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Significant hands-on experience developing Linux kernel code (drivers or core subsystems), networking driver experience is a plus.
• Prior experience leading or managing technical teams with direct reports.
• Strong understanding of Linux kernel internals, including scheduling, memory management, locking, and I/O paths, Ethernet, TCP/IP, SR-IOV, and network isolation.
• Proficiency in C and familiarity with kernel build, debug, and profiling tools.
• Experience working with open-source communities and upstream contribution processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Computer Science or a related discipline.
• Experience in performance-critical domains such as networking, storage, HPC, AI infrastructure, or embedded systems.
• Background in kernel networking (netdev, RDMA, InfiniBand/Ethernet), device drivers, or virtualization.
• Experience supporting products in customer-facing or production environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and executive audiences.

Location

This is a remote position for employees residing within the United States.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package that includes equity, cash, and incentives.
• Health and retirement benefits.
• Access to a broad range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Disability and life insurance.
• Dependent care flexible spending account.
• Accidental injury insurance and pet insurance.
• Generous paid holidays.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Open Time Off (OTO) for regular full-time exempt employees.
• Other paid time off benefits include sick time, bonding leave, and pregnancy disability leave.