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 and influence opportunities.
- 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
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).
Open Source 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 strong emphasis on employee growth through training and development, this company fosters a collaborative and engineering-led culture where your contributions will have a direct impact on the future of technology. Experience the unique advantage of working closely with both internal teams and the wider open source community, all while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package that supports your well-being and professional journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Open Source Architect
✨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 open source projects, especially those related to Linux kernel development. This will not only highlight your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on both technical and strategic aspects of the role. Be ready to discuss how you can drive open source strategy and build internal capabilities, as well as your experience with low-level software and embedded systems.
✨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 the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Open Source Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights 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, mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your expertise in low-level software and system-level interactions. We love seeing real-world examples of your work!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any 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 low-level software, drivers, and BSPs. This role is all about technical depth, so show them you’ve got the chops!
✨Show Your Open Source Passion
Prepare to talk about your contributions to open source projects. Highlight specific examples where you've led upstreaming activities or collaborated with communities. This will demonstrate your commitment to the open source ecosystem and your ability to drive strategy.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. You’ll need to engage with both internal teams and external communities, so being articulate is a must!
✨Align with Their Vision
Research the company’s current projects and their approach to open source and Linux platforms. Be prepared to discuss how you can help build internal capabilities and reduce reliance on external partners. Showing that you’re aligned with their goals will set you apart!
