Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Software Engineering
General Summary:
Role Overview
We are looking for a Staff Linux Kernel Engineer to work on Android platforms spanning mobile and desktop form factors . This role focuses on Linux kernel scheduler architecture and extensibility , with deep involvement in performance, isolation, and virtualization technologies. You will play a key technical role in designing, implementing, and upstreaming kernel features that directly impact system performance, power efficiency, and security.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and optimize Linux kernel scheduler features for Android-based mobile and desktop platforms.
- Lead development and experimentation with sched_ext , including custom scheduling policies and performance tuning.
- Drive kernel-level performance analysis and optimization (CPU scheduling, latency, throughput, power efficiency).
- Work closely with Android framework, system, and SoC teams to align kernel scheduler behavior with platform requirements.
- Contribute to kernel virtualization and isolation technologies , including pKVM, when applicable.
- Debug complex kernel issues across scheduler, CPU topology, IRQ handling, and task placement.
- Contribute patches to internal and upstream Linux kernel trees; participate in code reviews and design discussions.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other kernel engineers.
Required Qualifications
- Strong experience in Linux kernel development , with hands-on work in:
- Linux scheduler internals (CFS, RT, deadline, load balancing, CPU affinity, NUMA awareness, etc.)
- Kernel concurrency, locking, and performance debugging
- Proven experience working on Android kernel (ACK or vendor kernels).
- Deep understanding of CPU architecture, multi-core scheduling, and power/performance tradeoffs.
- Proficiency in C and familiarity with kernel debugging tools (ftrace, perf, BPF, tracepoints).
- Experience collaborating across system, platform, and hardware teams.
Preferred / Plus Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with sched_ext (designing or integrating extensible schedulers).
- Experience with pKVM , hypervisor-based isolation, or Android virtualization stack.
- Knowledge of ARM architecture, big.LITTLE scheduling, and heterogeneous CPU systems.
- Prior upstream Linux kernel contributions.
- Experience supporting desktop-class Android or hybrid mobile/desktop platforms.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge Android kernel technologies impacting millions of devices.
- Ownership of technically challenging areas such as scheduling extensibility and virtualization.
- Collaboration with senior engineers across kernel, Android, and SoC domains.
- A role with real influence on system architecture and long-term platform direction.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 4+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
Master's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 3+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
OR
PhD in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field and 2+ years of Software Engineering or related work experience.
- 2+ years of work experience with Programming Language such as C, C++, Java, Python, etc.
Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail [email protected] or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here . Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
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