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How to Actually Get Hired
Who reads applications, which channel gets a reply, and what they screen for.
Why applying the normal way doesn't work
At this size (<50 people), KERNEL has no recruiting function. Founders handle hiring alongside everything else. Reach them directly or get lost in the inbox.
Who to contact at KERNEL
We haven't verified a contact route at KERNEL yet. At <50 people in B2B, Infrastructure, the decision-maker is almost always a founder or department head, but that's a model, not something we've confirmed. We're working on it, and members get verified contacts first.
What KERNEL screens for
At in B2B, Infrastructure, hiring bars concentrate on relevant experience and ability to operate autonomously — shipped work over credentials, and evidence you can operate without process.
Don't send a generic CV to KERNEL. Mirror the job posting's language to get past automated screening.
Mistakes that kill applications
At <50 people, a copy-paste CV is immediately obvious. It's an instant no.
Nobody cares what you want. Start with is growing fast after their null round and how you'd help.
Don't apply and wait. The median B2B, Infrastructure application gets no response ever. One follow-up at day five roughly doubles reply rates.
Frequently asked questions
How do I apply to KERNEL?
Through the roles on our KERNEL jobs page, or directly to a founder or department head if you can reach them. At <50 people, direct outreach outperforms the form.
Does KERNEL respond to cold emails?
We're still collecting cold email data for KERNEL.
Who is the hiring manager at KERNEL?
At this size, hiring is usually run by a founder or department head.
What ATS does KERNEL use?
KERNEL uses Ashby.
How competitive is it to get hired at KERNEL?
<50-person B2B, Infrastructure companies see ~50-100 applicants per role in two weeks. The 72-hour window is your advantage.
Have your application sent for you
Early applications win. We track companies like KERNEL, customize your CV, and apply while applicant counts are low.
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