At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Linux kernel development and drive open source strategy in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: Innovative company focused on next-gen compute and embedded platform 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 and make a real impact in technology.
- 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).
Linux Architect employer: Elite People Partners Ltd
Join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises innovation and internal capability in the realm of Linux kernel development and embedded systems. With a flexible hybrid working model, competitive salary, and a robust benefits package including private medical care and extensive training opportunities, this role offers a unique chance to shape the future of open source strategy while working alongside a talented team in a senior capacity. Experience a collaborative work culture that values engineering excellence and encourages professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Linux Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the Linux and open source communities. Attend meetups, webinars, or conferences to make those valuable contacts that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a GitHub profile showcasing your contributions to open source projects. This is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in Linux kernel development and embedded systems to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice explaining complex concepts clearly, as you'll need to communicate effectively with both technical teams and open source communities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Principal / Director role. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to our open source strategy.
We think you need these skills to ace Linux Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in 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 role we’re offering.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, make sure to detail your technical expertise, especially around low-level software and system-level interactions. We’re looking for someone who can operate at both hands-on and strategic levels, so let us know what you’ve got!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications 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 Linux Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Linux kernel development knowledge. Be prepared to discuss your experience with low-level software, drivers, and BSPs. Highlight any contributions you've made to open source projects, as this will show your commitment and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role is not just about hands-on skills; it's also about shaping strategy. Be ready to talk about how you've previously defined or influenced open source strategies within an organisation. Think about examples where you've reduced reliance on external consultants and built internal capabilities.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this position. Prepare to demonstrate how you've engaged with both internal teams and external communities. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a way that non-technical stakeholders can understand, as this will be crucial in your role.
✨Stay Current with Industry Trends
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in embedded Linux and open source ecosystems. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact the organisation and its strategy. Showing that you're proactive about staying informed will impress your interviewers.
