The SUSE Kernel Performance team is seeking a Senior Kernel Engineer to play a crucial role in enhancing the performance and stability of the Linux kernel on the cutting-edge server platforms.

As a Senior Kernel Engineer on the Performance team, you'll directly impact the performance and stability of mission-critical workloads run by over 60% of Fortune 500 companies who rely on SUSE. You'll contribute to a robust open-source ecosystem, collaborating with the upstream Linux kernel community and other internal teams to deliver enterprise-grade solutions. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex, challenging problems, influencing the future of Linux on state-of-the-art server infrastructure. The team consists of leading Linux kernel experts collaborating closely, providing enhanced learning and growth opportunities.

Your core responsibilities will include

• Kernel Maintenance: Ensuring the ongoing stability and reliability of the Linux kernel used in SUSE's enterprise products. This involves addressing bugs, backporting fixes, and ensuring smooth operation across various hardware architectures.
• Performance Regression Analysis: Proactively identifying and resolving performance bottlenecks and regressions. You'll use your expertise to diagnose issues, analyze system behavior, and pinpoint the root causes of performance degradation.
• Feature Development: Innovating and implementing new features within the Linux kernel to meet evolving performance demands and support advanced server technologies.
• Performance Improvement: Continuously striving to optimize the Linux kernel for maximum efficiency and speed. This encompasses a wide range of tasks, from fine-tuning existing components to exploring novel approaches for performance enhancement.
• Develop Scripts for Test Automation: Design, implement, and maintain robust automated test scripts specifically for performance testing. This includes creating scenarios that accurately simulate real-world workloads and stress conditions to uncover performance issues.
• Collaboration with QA and Support: Work closely with QA teams to ensure comprehensive test coverage and to triage performance-related issues. You will also collaborate with support teams to assist in diagnosing and resolving critical customer-reported performance bugs, providing expert kernel-level insights.

SUSE typically looks for candidates with a strong background in

• C Programming: Excellent proficiency in C is essential for kernel development.
• Linux Kernel Internals: A deep understanding of at least one of the core kernel subsystems, including memory management, process scheduling, file systems, and networking.
• Debugging and Analysis: Expertise with kernel debugging tools and techniques, as well as tools for performance analysis and profiling.
• Database Performance (Big Plus): Experience with optimizing and analyzing the performance of database systems on Linux is a significant advantage.
• Scripting Languages: Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for test automation and data analysis.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose and resolve complex kernel-related issues.
• Open Source Contribution: Experience with open-source development practices, Git workflows, and a willingness to engage with the Linux kernel community.
• Collaboration: The ability to work effectively within a globally distributed team and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.

Characteristics Required

• Independent worker
• Detail-oriented and thorough
• Considerate but assertive
• Obsessed with performance quality
• Flexible and can handle pressure

Education Required

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or something similar in years of experience.

If you're passionate about low-level systems, performance optimization, and contributing to the core of the Linux operating system, this could be an excellent opportunity for you.