Network Linux Kernel Engineer

Company: Cornelis Networks, Inc.
Location: San Jose
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

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 hiring a talented Network Linux Kernel Engineer to help drive innovation and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the semiconductor industry. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing the software stack that powers our revolutionary AI networking fabric, working alongside a team of industry experts to shape the future of high-performance networking solutions. Key Responsibilities Design and develop high-performance kernel drivers and user-space libraries for our networking hardware. Build and optimize networking protocols at L2 (Ethernet), L3 (IP), and L4 (TCP/UDP) layers, tailored for AI/ML workloads. Leverage DPDK (Data Plane Development Kit) to create exceptionally fast packet processing pipelines that bypass the kernel for maximum throughput and minimal latency. Conduct deep-dive performance analysis and software optimization across the entire stack, identifying and eliminating bottlenecks. Collaborate with the hardware team to influence ASIC design and ensure software/hardware co-design principles are met. Develop robust testing, validation, and debugging tools for our networking stack. Contribute to a culture of technical excellence, continuous improvement, and collaborative problem-solving. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field. Proven experience in low-level systems programming with C/C++. Strong understanding of Linux kernel driver development and internal architecture. Hands-on experience with DPDK or similar user-space networking frameworks (e.g., VPP, XDP). Deep knowledge of networking fundamentals and L2, L3, and L4 protocols. Demonstrated experience in software optimization, profiling, and performance tuning. A self-motivated and proactive mindset with a strong sense of ownership and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced startup culture. Excellent teamwork and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with Ethernet/Switch ASICs or network processor silicon (e.g., Broadcom, Marvell, NVIDIA, Intel). Familiarity with RoCE (RDMA over Converged Ethernet) or other RDMA protocols. Experience in developing software for high-performance network interface cards (NICs) or SmartNICs. Understanding of the unique networking requirements of distributed AI/ML training workloads (e.g., NCCL, MPI). 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.

Keywords: Cornelis Networks, Inc., Petaluma , Network Linux Kernel Engineer, IT / Software / Systems , San Jose, California