Principal Software Development Engineer in Test

Akamai Technologies

Principal SDET leading test strategy for Akamai’s custom Linux kernel. Designing scalable continuous testing infrastructure and troubleshooting complex system issues.

Posted 7/9/2026full-timeRemote • Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $169,300 - $304,700 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

LinuxPerlPythonTCP/IP

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the test strategy for Akamai's custom Linux kernel
Design scalable continuous testing infrastructure and troubleshoot complex system issues
Validate feature functionality and maximize the performance of a global AI and Compute platform
Design, build, and scale advanced automated test frameworks to validate performance, reliability, and security of the Akamai Linux kernel
Develop test suites to validate new custom enhancements and facilitate porting existing Akamai modifications to newer versions of the Linux kernel
Debug, isolate, and troubleshoot complex, low-level system issues found in various testing and simulated production environments
Architect and enhance existing build and test automation infrastructure to achieve robust, continuous integration and testing
Provide technical leadership, set quality standards, and mentor junior members of the organization

Requirements

What you’ll need

12 years of relevant experience and a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent
Experience in software validation/development in C with a solid focus on Linux kernel infrastructure and experience in scripting (Python/Shell/Perl)
Deep understanding of Linux kernel internals (KVM, virtio drivers, cgroups, memory management, file systems, block IO, ethernet drivers, and TCP/IP stack)
Extensive experience with Linux kernel debugging tools, performance benchmarking, and continuous testing/CI frameworks
Motivated self-starter and established technical leader who thrives on collaborating with others to solve highly complex infrastructure challenges

Benefits

Comp & perks

Healthcare
401K savings plan
Company holidays
Vacation (in the form of PTO)
Sick time
Family friendly benefits including parental leave
Employee assistance program including a focus on mental and financial wellness

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Linux Kernel InternalsPerformance BenchmarkingScripting (Python/Shell/Perl)Test Suite DevelopmentDebugging and Troubleshooting

Soft Skills

Technical LeadershipCollaborationMentoring