> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2960999-principal-software-engineer-linux-kernel-isovalent](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2960999-principal-software-engineer-linux-kernel-isovalent). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal Software Engineer, Linux Kernel - Isovalent

- **Company:** Cisco
- **Location:** Madrid, Spain
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Clean Code Principles, Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Engineering, Software Quality, Linux, Distributed Systems, Network Security, Linux Kernel, Open Source Technology, Cloud Platform System, Kubernetes, Information Technology, Free and Open-Source Software, Cisco
- **Published:** September 17, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.buscojobs.com.es/principal-software-engineer-linux-kernel-isovalent-en-madrid-ID-372266610

## About the Role

About This Role Cisco Isovalent is seeking a skilled and experienced Software Engineer with long-term experience and upstream reputation in the Linux kernel community to develop forward looking features and functionality related to BPF, networking and/or security in the Linux kernel as well as bringing the latter into Cilium and/or Tetragon., Bachelors Computer Science degree, or related fields
2+ years of upstream Linux kernel track record
5+ years of experience in C
A public track record of open-source code commits is a must
Preferred Qualifications
Expert knowledge about Linux systems design, performance, security and/or networking, Linux kernel
5+ years of upstream Linux kernel track record
5+ years of experience in C, BPF as well as Go
Desire to write high quality and efficient code
Highly self-driven working individual
Experience designing and implementing APIs
Experience from working with production systems at scale, networking background is always a plus
Experience with Kubernetes, Cloud Native workloads and/or distributed systems

## Description

Isovalent, now part of Cisco, is the company founded by the creators of Cilium and eBPF.Cisco Isovalent builds open-source software and enterprise solutions solving networking, security, and observability needs for modern cloud native infrastructure.The flagship technology, Cilium, is the choice of numerous, industry-leading, global organizations.We believe in fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered.We believe that every employee contributes to our success, and we are committed to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join us in our mission to deliver exceptional products and services.About This Role Cisco Isovalent is seeking a skilled and experienced Software Engineer with long-term experience and upstream reputation in the Linux kernel community to develop forward looking features and functionality related to BPF, networking and/or security in the Linux kernel as well as bringing the latter into Cilium and/or Tetragon.You will work with a highly collaborative and skilled team to build solutions that advance the next generation of networking and security in Kubernetes and cloud native environments.What You'll DoLead design and development of new Linux kernel functionality in the areas of BPF, the networking stack and/or the security subsystem and bring the new functionality into Cilium/Tetragon.Collaborate in a small technical team working on forward-looking features, but also actively collaborate in the upstream Linux kernel community.Engage with the team across engineering, product, and customers to align on future technical direction with business needs.Possibility to speak at technical conferences to present and discuss your work (e.g., KubeCon, Linux Plumbers, LSF/MM/BPF).Contribute to and uphold engineering best practices, code quality, and operational excellence.Minimum QualificationsBachelors Computer Science degree, or related fields2+ years of upstream Linux kernel track record5+ years of experience in CA public track record of open-source code commits is a mustPreferred QualificationsExpert knowledge about Linux systems design, performance, security and/or networking, Linux kernel5+ years of upstream Linux kernel track record5+ years of experience in C, BPF as well as GoDesire to write high quality and efficient codeHighly self-driven working individualExperience designing and implementing APIsExperience from working with production systems at scale, networking background is always a plusExperience with Kubernetes, Cloud Native workloads and/or distributed systemsWhy Cisco?At Cisco, we're revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era - and beyond.We've been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds.These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint.Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions.Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you'll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless.We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale.Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere.We are Cisco, and our power starts with you.#J-*****-Ljbffr


## Related Videos

- [How Cisco embraced a DevOps culture within its network engineering team](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/99-how-cisco-embraced-a-devops-culture-within-its-network-engineering-team)
- [Into the hive of eBPF!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1199-into-the-hive-of-ebpf)
- [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker)
- [Understanding Kubernetes in a visual way](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100085-understanding-kubernetes-in-a-visual-way)
- [An Applied Introduction to eBPF with Go](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1075-an-applied-introduction-to-ebpf-with-go)
- [Gentle Introduction to eBPF](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/789-gentle-introduction-to-ebpf)

## Related Articles

- [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers)
- [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard)
- [Best Countries for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/267-best-countries-for-software-engineers)
- [Fully Remote Software Engineer Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/447-fully-remote-software-engineer-jobs)
- [Why Upskilling And Reskilling is Important For Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/428-why-upskilling-and-reskilling-is-important-for-developers)
- [The Ultimate Software Engineer Career Path Guide for 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/146-the-ultimate-software-engineer-career-path-guide-for-2023)