Freelance Linux Driver Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Due to the nature of our work in defense, Darkhive does not provide visa sponsorship for this role. Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which usually requires US citizenship.

About Darkhive, LLC

Established in 2021, Darkhive is redefining the future of autonomous systems. We design and build next-generation hardware and software solutions that seamlessly integrate into critical public safety and defense networks. Our core focus centers on developing tactical, human-machine interfaces and scaling the mass production of affordable, attritable uncrewed systems alongside our government partners.

At Darkhive, we are a high-growth team of U.S. Special Operations veterans, aerospace engineers, robotics perception experts, and DevSecOps professionals. Above all, we are a mission-first culture. We believe that global teams operating on the front lines deserve high-quality, intelligent tools that ensure safety when each second counts.

If you are a free-thinking problem solver looking to build cutting-edge robotics in a fast-paced, highly collaborative startup environment, apply with Darkhive today!

Senior Embedded Linux Engineer

You’ll contribute to full-stack embedded development—from writing low-level Linux drivers to bringing up hardware prototypes in the lab. The work involves integrating high-performance camera sensors, wireless communication modules, and real-time subsystems on modern embedded Linux platforms. You'll be part of a small, fast-moving team shipping systems that operate in real environments, not just test benches.

This is a full-time, exempt position reporting to the VP of Engineering. This position is remote with travel up to 25% to our company headquarters or other locations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers and low-level system software for embedded compute platforms, wireless modules, and custom MIPI image sensors
• Build and integrate software stacks for Wi-Fi and RF communication modules, including power management, firmware bring-up, and regulatory tuning
• Port and debug embedded Linux builds on Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms (Yocto, AOSP experience a plus)
• Work with device trees, bootloaders, and system bring-up for new hardware platforms
• Perform hardware-software integration, including camera tuning, I2C/SPI debug, and scope/logic analyzer work
• Collaborate with hardware and mechanical teams to validate new designs and support board bring-up
• Support integration and troubleshooting efforts for customers using our hardware, including driver-level debugging and system-level recommendations
• Troubleshoot and optimize embedded systems for performance, stability, and RF compliance

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
• Strong experience with Linux kernel development, kernel module creation, and driver debugging
• Solid understanding of MIPI CSI interfaces, camera sensor integration, and V4L2 pipeline
• Familiarity with wireless driver stacks (Wi-Fi/BT), including wpa_supplicant/hostapd and RF tuning
• Hands-on experience with embedded Linux platforms (e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon, NXP i.MX, or similar)
• Proficient with embedded toolchains, cross-compiling, and kernel/u-boot customization
• Comfortable working with hardware prototypes, schematics, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with custom PCB bring-up and low-level hardware debugging
• Familiarity with sensor initialization via I2C/SPI and power sequencing
• Exposure to antenna tuning or RF compliance testing for wireless modules
• Experience with camera tuning (gain, exposure, white balance) or GStreamer pipelines
• Proficiency with Yocto or Buildroot for embedded Linux build automation
• Experience with JTAG/SWD debuggers, bootloader recovery, or automated hardware tests
• Knowledge of edge AI model deployment
• Familiarity with USB gadget drivers, PCIe or SDIO peripherals, or low-level protocol analyzers
• Direct experience in the Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) or robotics industry
• U.S. Military Veteran experienced with tactical equipment from a user or developer perspective
• Active Security clearance
• Prior experience in a fast-paced, startup environment

Physical and/or Mental Requirements:

• Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time
• Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations
• Ability to maintain awareness during business hours
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds
• Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language
• Learns and memorizes routine tasks
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position
• Darkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this position

Selection Process:

• Hiring team reviews applications
• 15-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter
• 30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager
• Take home project
• In-person or video interview with hiring team

Benefits Darkhive offers:

• Comprehensive medical plans
• 100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiums
• Automatic 401k employer contribution with vesting
• Paid vacation and personal time off
• 11 Paid holidays
• 5 days of sick leave
• Stock options
• Welcoming and friendly work environment
• Respect of work-life balance

Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.