Remote Principal Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) – Linux Kernel & AI Platform
Why This Opportunity?
This is a remote opportunity for a senior technical leader who enjoys solving complex, low-level infrastructure challenges and building scalable testing solutions. In this role, you will lead the test strategy and automation for a highly distributed, custom Linux-based AI and Compute platform. You will own the testing lifecycle for a custom Linux kernel, develop advanced automation and continuous testing infrastructure, and work closely with core engineering teams to ensure the platform delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and security at a global scale.
What We're Looking For (Required & Elite Qualifications)
To land this role, you must possess an exceptional command of low-level systems engineering and modern, hyperscale test automation. We are filtering for candidates who meet the following high-bar, non-negotiable criteria:
- Professional Experience: 12+ years of relevant software engineering, development, or deep systems test experience in massive-scale or distributed environments.
- Systems Development & Validation: Advanced, hands-on software development and validation experience using C, with a strict focus on Linux kernel-level infrastructure.
- Automation & Scripting:
Expert-level capability in system-level automation and infrastructure validation using scripting tools like Python, Shell, and/or Perl.
- Linux Kernel Internals:
Deep, comprehensive, and structural knowledge of the following Linux internals:
- KVM and virtualization hypervisors
- Virtio drivers and driver architecture
- cgroups and resource isolation
- Memory management, File systems, and Block I/O
- Ethernet/network drivers and the TCP/IP stack [
- Diagnostics & Optimization: Extensive, hands-on experience with Linux kernel debugging tools and advanced performance benchmarking utilities.
- CI/CD Infrastructure: Proven track record designing, building, and supporting robust continuous integration (CI) and automated testing frameworks for low-level systems.
- Problem Solving: Superior, proven ability to systematically troubleshoot complex, non-deterministic system-level issues across highly technical environments.
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent deeply technical practical experience.
What You'll Do
- Kernel Test Strategy: Lead the comprehensive test strategy, validation standards, and quality benchmarks for a custom Linux kernel supporting next-gen AI and Compute platforms.
- Framework Architecture:
Design, build, and scale advanced automated test frameworks and suites focused on performance, reliability, security, and new Linux kernel enhancements.
- Infrastructure Evolution:
Support porting existing modifications to newer kernel and VM infrastructure versions while continuously improving build, automation, and continuous integration/testing infrastructure.
- Low-Level Debugging:
Perform deep Linux kernel debugging, performance benchmarking, and system-level validation. Troubleshoot and isolate complex, low-level system issues across test and simulated production environments.
- Engineering Partnerships: Partner directly with core engineering and architecture teams to establish rigid quality standards and deliver highly reliable infrastructure at scale.
- Technical Leadership:
Provide high-impact technical direction, code reviews, architectural oversight, and mentorship to other engineers across a highly distributed, remote environment