Software Engineer in Test

Job Summary

Saxon Global is seeking an experienced Senior Linux SDET Engineer to lead test strategy, automation, and system-level validation for a highly distributed Linux-based AI and Compute platform. This fully remote, full-time role offers a competitive salary range of $160,000 to $220,000 per year and provides an exceptional opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology in a collaborative, results-driven environment. As a senior technical leader, you will own the quality assurance framework, drive continuous integration improvements, and mentor fellow engineers while solving complex challenges involving Linux kernel internals, virtualization, and performance optimization. If you are passionate about low-level system engineering and building scalable automated testing solutions, this role will challenge and reward you in equal measure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall test strategy for a custom Linux kernel supporting AI and compute platforms, ensuring robustness and reliability across all system components.
• Design, build, and scale automated test frameworks focused on performance, reliability, and security, with a strong emphasis on continuous integration and delivery.
• Develop comprehensive test suites for new Linux kernel enhancements, validating functionality, stability, and performance under varied workloads.
• Support the porting of existing kernel modifications to newer kernel and virtual machine infrastructure versions, ensuring compatibility and smooth transitions.
• Troubleshoot and isolate complex low-level system issues across test and production-like environments, providing clear technical documentation and resolution strategies.
• Architect and improve CI/CD, build, automation, and continuous testing infrastructure to optimize developer productivity and release cycles.
• Perform Linux kernel debugging, performance benchmarking, and system-level validation, using advanced tools and methodologies to identify bottlenecks and defects.
• Partner with software and infrastructure engineering teams to establish quality standards, share best practices, and deliver highly reliable systems that meet or exceed client expectations.
• Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to other engineers, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define acceptance criteria, test plans, and quality metrics, ensuring alignment with product and business goals.

Role Requirements & Qualifications

• 12+ years of relevant software engineering, development, or test experience, demonstrating progressive responsibility and technical depth.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience in lieu of formal education.
• Strong software development and validation experience using C, particularly within Linux kernel infrastructure, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality code.
• Strong scripting skills using Python, Shell, and/or Perl, enabling automation of test scenarios and tooling.
• Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals, including KVM and virtualization, Virtio drivers, cgroups, memory management, file systems, block I/O, Ethernet/network drivers, and the TCP/IP stack.
• Extensive experience with Linux kernel debugging and performance benchmarking, using tools such as perf, ftrace, and gdb.
• Experience designing and supporting continuous integration and automated testing frameworks, with proficiency in CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitLab CI, or similar.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across complex system-level environments, with an analytical mindset and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to provide technical direction, influence decision-making, and mentor peers effectively.
• Ability to work independently in a highly distributed and remote environment, demonstrating self-motivation and strong time management.

Skills Inventory

• Essential: C programming, Linux kernel internals, KVM and virtualization, Python scripting, Shell scripting, CI/CD pipeline design, automated test framework development, performance benchmarking, low-level debugging, and system-level validation.
• Preferred: Perl scripting, experience with AI or compute platforms, knowledge of containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes), familiarity with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible, Puppet), and prior experience in a senior or lead role.

Salary & Compensation Estimation

The annual salary for this position is estimated between $160,000 and $220,000 USD, commensurate with experience, technical expertise, and location. Saxon Global offers a comprehensive benefits package that typically includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. As a remote role, there is flexibility in work location, but candidates should consider cost-of-living adjustments and tax implications. This compensation range reflects the senior nature of the role and the specialized skills required for Linux kernel engineering and test automation.