Senior Linux/SDET engineer

  • Recruiter Note:
    Please ensure that all candidate information submitted is accurate and up to date, including resume details, employment history, availability, interest level, and compensation expectations/pay rate. All information will be verified during the Reflik Account Manager’s candidate screening process. Any discrepancies between the submitted information and the candidate’s responses may result in corrective action.

    End client: Akamai Technologies

    Remote | Full-Time

    Our client is seeking an experienced Principal Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) to lead test strategy and automation for a highly distributed Linux-based AI and Compute platform. 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 own the testing strategy for a custom Linux kernel, develop advanced automation and continuous testing infrastructure, and work closely with engineering teams to ensure the platform delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and security.

    What You’ll Do
    Lead the overall test strategy for a custom Linux kernel supporting AI and Compute platforms.
    Design, build, and scale automated test frameworks focused on performance, reliability, and security.
    Develop comprehensive test suites for new Linux kernel enhancements and support porting existing modifications to newer kernel and VM infrastructure versions.
    Troubleshoot and isolate complex, low-level system issues across test and simulated production environments.
    Architect and improve build, automation, and continuous integration/testing infrastructure.
    Perform Linux kernel debugging, performance benchmarking, and system-level validation.
    Partner with engineering teams to establish quality standards and deliver reliable infrastructure at scale.
    Provide technical leadership and mentorship to other engineers.

    What We’re Looking For
    12+ years of relevant software engineering, development, or test experience and a Bachelor\'s degree or equivalent experience.
    Strong software development and validation experience using C, with a focus on Linux kernel infrastructure.
    Strong scripting experience with Python, Shell, and/or Perl.
    Deep knowledge of Linux kernel internals, including:
    KVM and virtualization
    Virtio drivers
    cgroups
    Memory management
    File systems
    Block I/O
    Ethernet/network drivers
    TCP/IP stack
    Extensive experience with Linux kernel debugging tools and performance benchmarking.
    Experience designing and supporting continuous integration and automated testing frameworks.
    Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues and work across highly technical environments.
    Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to provide technical direction and mentor others.
    A self-driven approach and the ability to operate effectively in a highly distributed, remote environment.

    Why This Opportunity?
    You’ll have the opportunity to work on technology that operates at enormous global scale, supporting the infrastructure behind some of the world\'s most demanding digital, cloud, security, content delivery, and AI applications.

    This role offers the chance to tackle challenging Linux kernel and infrastructure problems while helping build the next generation of distributed computing technology.
    Remote & Flexibility

    This is a remote position. Our client embraces a flexible work philosophy designed to give employees the ability to work in the environment where they are most productive—whether that is fully remote, in an office, or a combination of both.

    Compensation & Benefits
    • Annual bonus/incentive opportunities
    • Equity opportunities
    • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
    • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
    • 401(k) savings plan
    • Paid time off and company holidays
    • Paid sick time
    • Parental and family-friendly benefits
    • Employee assistance program
    • Financial and mental wellness resources
    Actual compensation will be based on factors including relevant experience, technical skills, certifications, and location. 

    If you’re someone who enjoys working at the kernel level, building sophisticated test automation, and solving challenging infrastructure problems at scale, we’d love to hear from you.

About job


  • Direct hire
  • Information Technology
  • Unknown
  • Mid-senior
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Cambridge, MA 02142
  • Remote only
  • Linux kernel-level infrastructure using C, including any work with KVM/virtualization, Virtio, kernel debugging, performance testing, or system-level automation
  • 12 Years
  • No