Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Arizona

About us
One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.
What you'll do
Viasat's Advanced Electronics team is responsible for developing and operating satellite systems and payloads that are designed to be highly reliable and able to withstand the harsh conditions of space. This includes designing and building satellite platforms, payloads, and ground systems that are capable of surviving and continuing to function in the face of extreme temperatures radiation, and other environmental challenges. The goal of the team is to ensure Viasat's satellite systems deliver reliable, high-quality service worldwide.
The day-to-day

• Development and integration involving embedded programming in C/C++
• Build and incorporation with embedded and system test software developed in C/C++ alongside Python
• Development and deployment of Linux OS applications in Python, C/C++
• Build and deployment of FreeRTOS applications in C/C++
• Build and develop applications for microprocessors, embedded processors, and FPGAs
• Design and implementation of bare metal embedded device drivers
• Debug and resolve complex integration issues
• Design CI/CD infrastructure and automation services
• Find opportunities to improve product reliability and security
• Lead design reviews and documentation tasks
• Agile SCRUM Framework development
• Works autonomously with little instruction to solve well-defined problems

What you'll need

• A minimum 5+ years of professional experience using C/C++
• Expertise with multi-threaded applications and inter-process communication
• Understanding of real-time concepts on embedded Linux or RTOS platforms
• ship required
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or similar field, or equivalent experience

What will help you on the job

• Experience with C/C++ software development
• Experience with CI/CD practices
• Experience with AI Toolkits and Platforms (e.g. Copilot, Claude, Cursor, etc.)
• Familiarity with tools and services like Git, GitHub, Jira, Jama, Artifactory, etc.
• Familiarity with Altera FPGA ARM-based architectures
• Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications
• Familiarity with RTOS and standalone embedded applications
• Familiarity with Ethernet standard and protocols
• Familiarity with network security protocols (e.g. IPSec, MACsec, TLS, etc.)
• Familiarity with Python software development
• Familiarity with Emulation Environments

Salary range
$140,500.00 - $221,500.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $174,000.00- $261,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at
EEO Statement
Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.