[ddevault]

Well, it depends on whether or not "4-5 years in related experience" means systems programming or if it means making single-page webapps.

[ddlutz]

That's less than somebody with 0 years experience in FAANG will make. I wouldn't expect kernel developers to get paid much differently than non-kernel developers at a similar level.

[ddevault]

FAANG rates aren't normal outside of FAANG (and maybe finance).

[dbancajas]

What if it's systems programming or HW design?

[ddevault]

It's really just down to location, then. They vary so much, and I don't have a lot of experience in the locations you mentioned. You can expect high-end software engineering salaries for good kernel hackers.