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: Fast-paced environment with significant career growth and influence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of open source technology and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong Linux kernel and embedded systems experience with excellent communication skills.
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).
Dynamics Architect employer: Elite People Partners Ltd
Join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises innovation and internal capability building 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 and training opportunities, this company fosters a collaborative and engineering-led culture where your contributions directly shape the future of technology. Experience meaningful growth and impact as you lead critical initiatives in a supportive environment that values your expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Dynamics 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! If you’ve got a GitHub or similar portfolio, make sure it’s up to date with your best work. Potential employers love to see real examples of what you can do, especially in Linux kernel development and open source contributions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company’s current projects and their approach to open source. Being able to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Dynamics 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 specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving open source contributions and upstreaming. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but have practical experience.
✨Align with Their Vision
Understand the company's strategy around open source and Linux platforms. Be prepared to share your thoughts on how you can help build internal capabilities and reduce reliance on external consultants. This shows that you’re aligned with their goals and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. You might be asked to engage with both internal teams and external communities, so being able to articulate your ideas clearly will set you apart.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This role involves working closely with global engineering and architecture teams. Be ready to discuss examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated in the past, especially in distributed environments. Highlighting your teamwork skills will demonstrate that you can thrive in their senior, engineering-led organisation.
