GPU Consultant Engineer

Build open source graphics drivers that run on real hardware. Work directly in the Vulkan driver stack, contributing upstream to Mesa and the Linux DRM subsystem, solving problems affecting GPU usage across the Linux ecosystem. The role combines low-level systems programming with open source collaboration, working alongside experienced graphics engineers to develop expertise in modern GPU architecture.

Location: Fully remote

Responsibilities

• Contribute directly to Mesa and the Linux DRM subsystem, writing Vulkan driver code for mainline distribution.
• Work on graphics drivers for hardware used across Linux desktops, embedded devices, and consumer products.
• Debug GPU behavior, reverse engineer hardware quirks, and fix rendering issues.
• Collaborate with Mesa and kernel maintainers, participate in code review, and represent Collabora at conferences.
• Translate hardware vendor and client requirements into upstream solutions, advocating for ecosystem benefits.
• Balance upstream correctness with hardware timelines, vendor NDAs, performance targets, and deadlines.
• Explain complex driver and GPU architecture decisions to product teams, providing honest assessments and building trust.

Requirements

• Vulkan core spec understanding, including command buffers, render passes, synchronization, memory management, and pipelines.
• Basic understanding of GPU hardware concepts like queues, tilers, memory hierarchies.
• Linux kernel basics: reading and navigating kernel code.
• DRM fundamentals: GEM/buffer management, dma-buf/prime buffer sharing, fence and sync objects, GPU job submission paths.
• Mesa architecture awareness: Gallium, driver structure.
• Basic understanding of userspace driver interaction with kernel.
• Proficiency in C and C++: pointer arithmetic, memory management, kernel-style coding.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and location.
• Office setup budget.
• Sabbatical/Retention of Services after five years.
• Co-working policy support.
• Biannual wellness assessments with mental health specialists.
• Conference attendance expenses and speaking opportunities.
• Open source contribution time.