At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead open source strategy and Linux kernel development for next-gen tech.
- Company: Innovative tech firm focused on embedded systems and open source.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30% bonus, flexible working, and comprehensive benefits.
- Other info: Join a senior team with excellent growth opportunities and influence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of open source tech and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong Linux kernel and embedded systems experience required.
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.
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- £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).
Open Source Architect in England 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 strong focus on employee growth through training and development, this role offers you the chance to make a significant impact while collaborating with global engineering teams. Experience a supportive work culture that values your expertise and encourages strategic influence over critical technology initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Source Architect in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the open source community and let them know you're on the hunt for an Open Source Architect role. Attend meetups, webinars, or even online forums to connect with potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your contributions to Linux kernel development and any open source projects you've been involved in. This will give you a leg up during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company’s open source strategy and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. Tailor your answers to highlight your experience with embedded systems and low-level software.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Open Source Architect in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience with Linux kernel development and embedded systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your open source contributions!
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 drive our Linux kernel strategy. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be specific about your technical expertise. Mention any experience with BSPs, drivers, or system-level interactions. We love seeing candidates who can operate at both hands-on and strategic levels!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother 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 low-level software and open source contributions. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but have practical experience.
✨Show Your Strategic Side
This role is about building internal capabilities and reducing reliance on external consultants. Prepare to talk about how you've previously driven strategy in open source or Linux environments. Think of examples where you’ve aligned internal teams with external standards and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. You might be asked to engage with both technical teams and open source communities, so being able to adapt your communication style is key.
✨Stay Current
Keep yourself updated on the latest trends in open source, embedded Linux, and low-level systems engineering. Being able to discuss recent developments or innovations in these areas during your interview will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.
