STEM OPT Linux Software Engineer Jobs
Linux Software Engineer roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree falls under an eligible CIP code in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related STEM field. Employers must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you'll need a signed I-983 training plan before your extension begins.
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Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges. At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation. Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.
Job Description
Who You’ll Work With
Arista’s Linux Kernel team is responsible for developing and maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS. This includes keeping pace with the latest developments in the upstream Linux Kernel community, and integrating new versions of the upstream kernel as they become available. This work also involves designing and implementing new Linux kernel features, and working with the upstream kernel development community to get these changes incorporated into the mainline Linux kernel code base. Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU vendors to integrate their kernel support into EOS. You will also help to bring-up and qualify new CPUs in our hardware products. Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Linux Kernel software, your work will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.
What You’ll Do
- Track ongoing developments in the Linux Kernel and identify features and functionality of interest to Arista for our products and for internal development needs.
- Develop and maintain EOS Kernel features and tests using C, C++ and Python, review and contribute to functional and design specifications. Build automated tests and test infrastructure to validate the features.
- Work with hardware engineers and vendors to qualify new Kernel dependent hardware components like CPUs and NICs for integration into Arista products.
- Work with the Kernel community to contribute features back to the mainline.
- Work with a team of Kernel engineers to integrate new versions of the Kernel for use in EOS and our internal development.
- Provide technical leadership across features, projects and tools.
- Work with Customer Support Engineers and customers to analyze, mitigate and fix problems in customer networks.
- Work with the System Test Engineers to analyze problems found in their tests and provide fixes for those problems.
- Mentor new and junior engineers to bring them up to speed in Arista’s software development environment.
Qualifications
- BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 3 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 2 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 1 years experience, or equivalent work experience
- Expert knowledge of and extensive experience programming in C required. Knowledge of C++ and Python is desirable.
- Significant hands-on experience troubleshooting issues, fixing bugs and developing features in the Linux kernel.
- Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture, design and implementation.
- Familiarity with the upstream Linux community’s patching process and procedures.
- Understanding of IP networking architecture, design and principles
- Applied understanding of modern software engineering principles and practices
- Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Strong software design and implementation skills.
- Ability to work independently and in small teams.
- Ability to communicate articulately, and document your designs and implementations clearly, and concisely.
- Familiarity with the x86 and ARM CPU architectures
Compensation Information
The new hire base pay for this role has a salary range of $123,000 to $191,000. Arista offers different pay ranges based on work location, so that we can offer consistent and competitive pay appropriate to the market. The actual base pay offered will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, relevant experience, and work location. The pay range provided reflects base pay only and in addition certain roles may also be eligible for discretionary Arista bonuses and equity. Employees in Sales roles are eligible to participate in Arista’s Sales Incentive Plan, which pays commissions calculated as a percentage of eligible sales. US-based employees are also entitled to benefits including medical, dental, vision, wellbeing, tax savings and income protection. The recruiting team can share more details during the hiring process specific to the role and location.
Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Company Description
Arista Networks is an industry leader in data-driven, client-to-cloud networking for large data center, campus and routing environments. What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of innovation. We leverage the latest advancements in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and software-defined networking to provide our clients with a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. Our solutions are designed to not only meet the current demands of the digital landscape but to also anticipate and adapt to future challenges. At Arista we value the diversity of thought and perspectives that each employee brings to the table. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment, where individuals from various backgrounds and experiences feel welcome, is essential for driving creativity and innovation. Our commitment to excellence has earned us several prestigious awards, such as Best Engineering Team, Best Company for Diversity, Compensation, and Work-Life Balance. At Arista, we take pride in our track record of success and strive to maintain the highest standards of quality and performance in everything we do.
Job Description
Who You’ll Work With
Arista’s Linux Kernel team is responsible for developing and maintaining the Linux kernel in EOS. This includes keeping pace with the latest developments in the upstream Linux Kernel community, and integrating new versions of the upstream kernel as they become available. This work also involves designing and implementing new Linux kernel features, and working with the upstream kernel development community to get these changes incorporated into the mainline Linux kernel code base. Kernel software engineers are also responsible for the CPU subsystems on all Arista products. You will evaluate new CPUs and work with CPU vendors to integrate their kernel support into EOS. You will also help to bring-up and qualify new CPUs in our hardware products. Arista Software Engineering roles demand a strong and broad software engineering background. While the primary focus area for this role is Linux Kernel software, your work will cover all aspects of software development spanning the addition of new features, debugging problems and fine tuning code for scalability and performance. You will own your projects from definition to deployment and customer interactions, and you will be responsible for the quality of everything you deliver.
What You’ll Do
- Track ongoing developments in the Linux Kernel and identify features and functionality of interest to Arista for our products and for internal development needs.
- Develop and maintain EOS Kernel features and tests using C, C++ and Python, review and contribute to functional and design specifications. Build automated tests and test infrastructure to validate the features.
- Work with hardware engineers and vendors to qualify new Kernel dependent hardware components like CPUs and NICs for integration into Arista products.
- Work with the Kernel community to contribute features back to the mainline.
- Work with a team of Kernel engineers to integrate new versions of the Kernel for use in EOS and our internal development.
- Provide technical leadership across features, projects and tools.
- Work with Customer Support Engineers and customers to analyze, mitigate and fix problems in customer networks.
- Work with the System Test Engineers to analyze problems found in their tests and provide fixes for those problems.
- Mentor new and junior engineers to bring them up to speed in Arista’s software development environment.
Qualifications
- BS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 3 years experience, or MS Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 2 years experience, or Ph.D. in Computer Science/Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering + 1 years experience, or equivalent work experience
- Expert knowledge of and extensive experience programming in C required. Knowledge of C++ and Python is desirable.
- Significant hands-on experience troubleshooting issues, fixing bugs and developing features in the Linux kernel.
- Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture, design and implementation.
- Familiarity with the upstream Linux community’s patching process and procedures.
- Understanding of IP networking architecture, design and principles
- Applied understanding of modern software engineering principles and practices
- Strong problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Strong software design and implementation skills.
- Ability to work independently and in small teams.
- Ability to communicate articulately, and document your designs and implementations clearly, and concisely.
- Familiarity with the x86 and ARM CPU architectures
Compensation Information
The new hire base pay for this role has a salary range of $123,000 to $191,000. Arista offers different pay ranges based on work location, so that we can offer consistent and competitive pay appropriate to the market. The actual base pay offered will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, relevant experience, and work location. The pay range provided reflects base pay only and in addition certain roles may also be eligible for discretionary Arista bonuses and equity. Employees in Sales roles are eligible to participate in Arista’s Sales Incentive Plan, which pays commissions calculated as a percentage of eligible sales. US-based employees are also entitled to benefits including medical, dental, vision, wellbeing, tax savings and income protection. The recruiting team can share more details during the hiring process specific to the role and location.
Arista Networks is an equal opportunity employer. Arista makes all hiring and employment-related decisions in a non-discriminatory manner without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other factor determined to be unlawful under applicable federal, state, or law law. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
See all STEM OPT Linux Software Engineer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Linux Software Engineer
Confirm your CIP code before applying
Not every computer science or engineering degree automatically qualifies for STEM OPT. Cross-reference your degree's CIP code against the Department of Homeland Security STEM Designated Degree Program List before you accept any offer that depends on the extension.
Filter employers by E-Verify status early
Linux roles at startups and small dev shops often lack E-Verify enrollment, which disqualifies them from sponsoring your STEM OPT extension. Search Migrate Mate to find Linux Software Engineer positions at employers already enrolled in E-Verify.
Verify the I-983 covers kernel-level work
Your I-983 training plan must describe training goals directly tied to your STEM degree. If your role involves embedded systems, kernel development, or systems programming, make sure those technical objectives appear explicitly in the plan your employer signs.
Use OFLC Wage Search to benchmark your offer
Before signing an offer, run the Linux Software Engineer SOC code through OFLC Wage Search to check the prevailing wage for your metro area. STEM OPT doesn't require prevailing wage compliance, but a below-market offer can complicate a future H-1B visa petition.
Start the DSO extension request 90 days out
USCIS requires your I-765 to be filed before your initial OPT EAD expires. File your STEM OPT extension application at least 90 days before that date to avoid a gap in work authorization while your case is pending.
Check O*NET before writing your training objectives
O*NET lists the knowledge domains and technical tasks associated with Linux and systems software roles. Aligning your I-983 training objectives with O*NET's documented competencies for software developers strengthens your training plan if USCIS reviews it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Linux Software Engineer role qualify for STEM OPT?
Yes, if your degree carries an eligible CIP code. Computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, and applied mathematics degrees typically qualify. The role itself must also provide practical training that's directly related to your degree field. Your DSO verifies the degree eligibility before recommending the STEM OPT extension to USCIS.
What E-Verify requirement applies to my STEM OPT employer?
Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify before you begin work on a STEM OPT extension. Enrollment after you start doesn't satisfy the requirement. Verify enrollment status through the E-Verify employer search tool before accepting an offer. If the employer isn't enrolled, your DSO cannot recommend the extension, and you can't legally begin work under it.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a Linux engineering role?
The I-983 must document specific training goals tied to your STEM degree, the supervision structure, how the employer will evaluate your progress, and how the role connects to your academic preparation. For Linux Software Engineers, that means describing work in areas like systems programming, kernel modules, device drivers, or performance optimization in terms that map back to your coursework.
How does cap-gap protect me if my H-1B is selected during STEM OPT?
If your employer files an H-1B petition on your behalf before your STEM OPT EAD expires and your registration is selected, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that fiscal year. You can continue working as a Linux Software Engineer without interruption while USCIS adjudicates the petition. USCIS publishes guidance on cap-gap eligibility and documentation requirements.
Where can I find Linux Software Engineer jobs at E-Verify employers?
Migrate Mate filters Linux Software Engineer listings for employers enrolled in E-Verify, so you're not wasting applications on companies that can't support your STEM OPT extension. You can search by role, location, and employer type without needing to manually verify E-Verify status on each company's profile before applying.