Associate Linux Kernel Engineer

At Cornelis we’re building the future of AI and HPC networking with an AI-first approach to silicon and software development. We’re seeking engineers who are energized by working on cutting-edge ASIC design and distributed software systems, and who are motivated to push the boundaries on how AI can transform everything from chip architecture to system performance at scale.

Cornelis Networks delivers the world’s highest performance scale-out networking solutions for AI and HPC datacenters. Our differentiated architecture seamlessly integrates hardware, software and system level technologies to maximize the efficiency of GPU, CPU and accelerator-based compute clusters at any scale. Our solutions drive breakthroughs in AI & HPC workloads, empowering our customers to push the boundaries of innovation. Backed by top-tier venture capital and strategic investors, we are committed to innovation, performance and scalability - solving the world’s most demanding computational challenges with our next-generation networking solutions.

We are a fast-growing, forward-thinking team of architects, engineers, and business professionals with a proven track record of building successful products and companies. As a global organization, our team spans multiple U.S. states and six countries, and we continue to expand with exceptional talent in onsite, hybrid, and fully remote roles.

Cornelis Networks is seeking an elite, high-potential Associate Linux Kernel Engineer to join our kernel development team. We are looking for "systems-first" thinkers — those who are passionate about computer architecture and thrive at the intersection of hardware and software. As an entry-level engineer, you won't just be writing code; you will be contributing to the mission-critical foundation of the networking fabric, the world’s most advanced interconnect for AI and HPC. This is a remote-first position. We value results over hours. We provide the flexibility, but we require the discipline to deliver high-impact results in a fast-paced startup environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Develop software feature/test cases for Linux device driver / networking device 

• Fast learner on chip/nic and switch documents, write the design documentation and test plan. 

• Performance profiling and optimization for HPC/AI/Storage networking fabric 

• Analyze problems and implement solutions based on customer and internal requirements 

• Code review, software quality hardens with team members 
  

Minimum Qualifications 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Computer Engineering, or a related field from a top-tier institution. Master’s or PhD degree is a significant advantage. 
• Kernel Proficiency: At least 6 months of hands-on experience with Linux or FreeBSD kernel development (internships, academic projects, or open-source contributions). 

• Passion for Architecture: Deep curiosity for how flits move through a PCIe bus, CPU cache hierarchies, and high-speed fabric. 

• AI-Assisted Skillset: Expert at using AI tools to assist in coding, unit testing, and debugging. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in AI/Storage/HPC networking fields 

• Familiar with Ethernet and Ultra Ethernet & Hyperscale data center networking 

• Experience developing and supporting open-source projects 

• Startup Mindset: Eager to learn, take ownership, and thrive where speed and execution are the primary metrics. 

• Result-First Discipline: Highly self-motivated and comfortable with a remote, result-first work culture. 

• Experience using hardware performance counters to guide development and code tuning 
  

Location: This is a remote position for employees residing in the United States.

We offer a competitive compensation package that includes equity, cash, and incentives, along with health and retirement benefits. Our dynamic, flexible work environment provides the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most influential names in the semiconductor industry.

At Cornelis Networks your base salary is only one component of your comprehensive total rewards package. Your base pay will be determined by factors such as your skills, qualifications, experience, and location relative to the hiring range for the position. Depending on your role, you may also be eligible for performance-based incentives, including an annual bonus or sales incentives.

In addition to your base pay, you’ll have access to a broad range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as disability and life insurance, a dependent care flexible spending account, accidental injury insurance, and pet insurance. We also offer generous paid holidays, 401(k) with company match, and Open Time Off (OTO) for regular full-time exempt employees. Other paid time off benefits include sick time, bonding leave, and pregnancy disability leave.

Cornelis Networks does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. Cornelis Networks is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants’ needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.