Systems Software Engineer

Systems Engineer III – PCIe & Linux Kernel Debug

Location: Milpitas, CA (100% onsite) standard business hours

Duration: 3-Month Contract with Potential to Extend or Convert

Pay Rate: $67/hour

Position Overview

We are seeking a Systems Engineer III to support system-level debugging and development of internal test platforms. This role will focus on diagnosing complex PCIe, Linux kernel, hardware, and software integration issues while partnering with hardware, firmware, BIOS, software, and validation teams to identify root causes and improve platform reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot PCIe issues including link training failures, enumeration problems, AER errors, bandwidth limitations, hot-plug events, and device communication failures.
• Analyze Linux kernel logs, crash dumps, kernel panics, driver issues, and system performance problems.
• Perform root cause analysis across hardware, firmware, BIOS, kernel, driver, and application layers.
• Utilize tools such as lspci, dmesg, kernel tracing, PCIe protocol analyzers, and logic analyzers .
• Support platforms utilizing PCIe switches, NVMe devices, custom hardware, and embedded controllers .
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to reproduce issues, validate fixes, and improve system stability.
• Support system bring-up, platform qualification, and production-readiness activities.
• Develop debug procedures, troubleshooting guides, and technical documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of PCIe architecture, protocols, and troubleshooting .
• Experience with Linux kernel debugging, device drivers, and system-level diagnostics .
• Experience analyzing kernel logs, crash dumps, and system traces.
• Strong Linux command-line skills and scripting experience with Python, Bash, or similar .
• Knowledge of BIOS/UEFI, hardware bring-up, and platform validation .
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
• College degree required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with NVMe/SSD systems and PCIe switches .
• Experience with protocol analyzers, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and other hardware debugging tools.
• Background supporting storage, high-performance computing, or test equipment platforms.
• Understanding of Linux kernel internals and driver development.