Kernel Engineer

Webster & Webster Associates is leading a confidential search for a Kernel Engineer on behalf of a premier software technology firm that develops core operating system solutions for high-integrity, safety-critical embedded systems. This fully remote role (contiguous US) is perfect for an engineer with deep expertise in designing and optimizing low-level kernel components. You will be a key contributor to a microkernel foundation, focusing on advanced features like time and space partitioning and fault containment in multi-core architectures. This position offers a unique blend of technical challenge and autonomous contribution within a field where reliability and security are paramount


Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize core components of an RTOS microkernel, focusing on enhancing support for partitioned, safety-critical multi-core systems.
• Implement and refine advanced safety features related to multi-core processing, including core isolation, partitioning mechanisms, and fault containment strategies.
• Develop, troubleshoot, and maintain kernel components to ensure full compliance with rigorous functional safety standards (e.g. DO-178C).
• Implement and manage platform-specific Application Binary Interfaces (ABIs) for key processor architectures (e.g. ARM64, x86, PowerPC, and RISC-V).
• Integrate established industry standards for partitioning and real-time execution into the kernel or supporting user libraries.
• Conduct extensive testing, verification, code reviews, and meticulous documentation to ensure the highest levels of robustness, stability, and quality.

• Engineering degree in Electrical, Computer, Software Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong proficiency in C/C++ programming languages, with working familiarity with assembly language for low-level interaction.
• Extensive experience developing RTOS kernels that incorporate partitioning mechanisms and multi-core safety features.
• Practical experience working with diverse hardware architectures including ARM64, x86, and PowerPC, and related ABIs
• Familiarity with hardware virtualization is beneficial.
• Expertise in core functional safety standards such as DO-178C, ISO 26262, and knowledge of partitioning standards like ARINC 653 is essential.
• Familiarity with software standards like C11 and POSIX is required.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and system optimization skills.

• Remote Flexibility: This is a fully remote role within the contiguous US, offering maximum flexibility for a highly specialized independent contributor.
• High-Integrity Focus: Directly contribute to the foundational software layer of systems where safety, reliability, and security are the ultimate requirement (Level A certification environments).
• Technical Depth: Work with cutting-edge multi-core architectures and advanced techniques like time and space partitioning.
• Autonomy and Impact: Join a respected technology leader and operate independently within a supportive, distributed team structure, with your work having a direct, critical impact on product performance and certification.