At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead open source and Linux kernel strategy, driving innovation in embedded systems.
- Company: Dynamic tech company focused on next-gen compute and graphics technologies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30% bonus, flexible working, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Join a senior team with excellent growth opportunities and a collaborative culture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of open source technology and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong Linux kernel development experience and open source contribution.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 190000 £ per year.
My client’s specialist software and architecture team is looking to add a Principal / Director – Open Source Architect to support the development and integration of next-generation compute, graphics, and embedded platform technologies.
This role is focused on building internal capability around Linux kernel development, embedded Linux platforms, upstreaming, and open source strategy — moving away from reliance on external consultants and towards a more embedded, scalable, engineering-led approach.
You will operate close to the hardware/software boundary, working across low-level software, Linux internals, embedded systems, platform enablement, and architecture teams to ensure alignment between internal engineering development and the wider open source ecosystem.
Principal / Director – Open Source Architect Role & Responsibilities:
- Define and drive open source and Linux kernel strategy across the organisation
- Lead and contribute to Linux kernel development, BSP, driver, and upstreaming activities
- Build internal capability and reduce reliance on external partners and consultants
- Act as the key technical interface between internal teams and open source communities
- Ensure alignment between internal platform development and external ecosystem standards
- Support integration of software with hardware platforms across CPU / GPU / SoC / RISC-V environments
- Collaborate with global engineering, architecture, and product teams
- Support platform optimisation across performance, scalability, reliability, and security
- Stay aligned with industry trends and developments across open source, embedded Linux, and low-level systems engineering
Principal / Director – Open Source Architect Essential Skills:
- Strong experience in Linux kernel development and embedded systems
- Proven track record of open source contribution and upstreaming
- Deep understanding of low-level software, Linux internals, drivers, BSPs, and system-level interactions
- Experience across embedded Linux, Yocto / Buildroot, secure boot, or platform bring-up environments
- Experience working across CPU, GPU, RISC-V, AI edge, or complex SoC environments
- Ability to operate at both hands-on and strategic levels
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage internal teams and external communities
- Experience working across distributed/global engineering teams
What This Isn’t:
- Not an application-level or user-space development role
- Not pure DevOps or cloud infrastructure
- Not isolated development — this is about ecosystem alignment, platform enablement, and long-term capability building
Why This Role:
- Ownership of a critical and growing capability within the organisation
- Direct influence on how open source and Linux platforms are used internally
- Opportunity to shape strategy and reduce reliance on external partners
- Senior environment with real technical and organisational impact
- Highly engineering-led organisation operating across advanced compute and embedded systems development
Salary and Package:
- £150,000 – £190,000 base salary (depending on level and experience)
- 30% bonus
- Total compensation: £195,000 – £247,000+
- Flexible / hybrid working model
- Pension
- Private medical
- Life assurance
- Income protection
- Training and development
My client can offer a 3-stage process consisting of a 1st stage Video Call, 2nd Stage Video Call, and a 3rd Stage on-site Interview (meet the team and site tour). This process can be completed within 2–3 weeks (based on availability).
DevOps Architect employer: Elite People Partners Ltd
Join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises innovation and internal capability development in the realm of open source and embedded systems. With a flexible hybrid working model, competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package including private medical care and training opportunities, this role offers a unique chance to make a significant impact while fostering a collaborative and engineering-led culture. Embrace the opportunity to shape the future of technology within a supportive environment that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DevOps Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who are already working in open source or embedded systems. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a GitHub repository showcasing your contributions to Linux kernel development or any relevant projects. This will give you an edge during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for those video calls by rehearsing common interview questions related to open source strategies and embedded systems. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team and contributing to our exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace DevOps Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Principal / Director – Open Source Architect. Highlight your experience in Linux kernel development and embedded systems, as well as any open source contributions you've made. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about open source and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves engaging with both internal teams and external communities, make sure to demonstrate your strong communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elite People Partners Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your Linux kernel development and embedded systems knowledge. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with open source contributions and upstreaming, as this role is all about building internal capability and reducing reliance on external consultants.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This position requires strong communication skills to engage with both internal teams and external communities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams in the past, especially in distributed or global settings.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the company's strategy around open source and Linux platforms. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their goals of ecosystem alignment and platform enablement, showcasing your ability to operate at both hands-on and strategic levels.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that dive deep into low-level software, drivers, and system-level interactions. Brush up on your knowledge of CPU, GPU, RISC-V, and complex SoC environments, as well as any relevant tools like Yocto or Buildroot.
