ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in California

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an ...

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an ...

Intel

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an ...

CoreWeave

Systems Engineer, Kernel

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

They are seeking a highly skilled Systems Kernel Engineer to contribute to the stability and performance of their Linux-based infrastructure, focusing on debugging kernel-level issues and ...

itechstack

Linux BSP Developer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

JD Kernel - Developer Engineer Skill Linux, C, C++ Mandatory Board Bring Up Mandatory Kernel Mandatory BSP , Android HAL/HIDL Mandatory Kernel Driver - Development Mandatory Automated Unit Testing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in California

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

What is the difference between Freelance Linux Kernel Developer vs Linux Device Driver Developer?

AspectFreelance Linux Kernel DeveloperLinux Device Driver Developer
CredentialsExperience with Linux kernel development, possibly certifications in Linux or C programmingSimilar credentials, often with specialized knowledge in device driver development
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, remote work, client-based assignmentsIn-house or freelance, focused on hardware-specific driver development
Industry UsageTechnology companies, startups, open-source projectsHardware manufacturers, embedded systems, specialized tech firms
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance Linux kernel work or collaborationSeeking expertise in developing or maintaining device drivers

The main difference is that a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer works on overall kernel development projects on a freelance basis, while a Linux Device Driver Developer specializes in creating and maintaining drivers for specific hardware components. Both roles require similar technical skills and credentials, but their focus areas and work environments differ.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance Linux Kernel Developers when working with diverse client codebases?

Freelance Linux Kernel Developers often work with a variety of client codebases, which can present challenges such as adapting to different kernel versions, understanding custom modifications, and ensuring compatibility with client-specific hardware. Navigating disparate documentation and collaborating remotely with in-house teams also requires strong communication and problem-solving skills. Staying up-to-date with upstream kernel changes and maintaining high code quality are essential to deliver reliable, maintainable solutions for each project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer, you need deep expertise in C programming, operating systems concepts, and a strong understanding of Linux internals, often supported by a relevant computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), kernel debugging tools (such as GDB, perf), and contributing to open-source repositories is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and clear written communication help developers stand out when collaborating remotely and engaging with the open-source community. These competencies are crucial for efficiently delivering robust kernel solutions and maintaining high standards in a distributed, collaborative environment.

What does a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer do?

A Freelance Linux Kernel Developer specializes in writing, modifying, and maintaining the core of the Linux operating system, often for clients or companies on a project basis. Their responsibilities include debugging kernel code, developing new features, optimizing performance, and ensuring compatibility with hardware and software. Freelancers in this field work independently, offering their expertise to organizations that need custom Linux kernel solutions or support. They typically need strong programming skills in C, in-depth knowledge of operating systems, and experience with open-source collaboration.
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California? For Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Linux Kernel Engineer

Linux Kernel Engineer

Intel

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Intel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Job Details:Job Description: 

We are seeking an experienced Linux Kernel Developer to join our system software engineering team. This role focuses on developing, maintaining, and optimizing Linux kernel components with an emphasis on x86 architectures, device drivers, and platform-level integration. The successful candidate will support early platform enablement across both presilicon and postsilicon environments, including FPGA-based validation platforms and production silicon.
In this role, you will collaborate closely with Silicon Architects, SoC design teams, firmware engineers, and other software developers to enable operating system support for new hardware capabilities. The position requires strong Linux kernel expertise, deep understanding of hardware-software interfaces, and the ability to debug complex system-level issues during early platform bring-up. Contributions to upstream Linux kernel subsystems and participation in open-source development are highly valued.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and maintain Linux kernel modules and device drivers for x86-based platforms.
Support platform bring-up activities and early boot enablement in both presilicon (FPGA/emulation) and postsilicon environments.
Work with FPGA platforms and simulation environments for early hardware validation and driver development.
Collaborate with SoC design, firmware, and platform teams to define OS and kernel requirements for new hardware features.
Develop and enhance kernel subsystems related to device drivers, memory management, power management, scheduling, and platform interfaces.
Implement and debug kernel functionality including ACPI integration and hardware interface protocols.
Diagnose and resolve kernel-level issues during system boot, device initialization, and runtime operation.
Backport patches, apply security updates, and maintain stable kernel branches as part of platform productization.
Contribute patches and enhancements to upstream Linux kernel subsystems when applicable.
Optimize system performance through power/performance tuning, memory management improvements, and system-level profiling.
Maintain kernel configuration, build environments, and development workflows using Git-based version control systems.
Work with cross-functional engineering team

PROFESSIONAL TRAITS
Strong analytical thinking and system-level problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including SoC design, firmware, and platform engineering groups.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively in a team environment.
Strong attention to detail with disciplined debugging and troubleshooting practices.
Adaptability to work across different hardware platforms and development phases.
Passion for low-level systems development, including personal experimentation with Linux kernel builds, debugging, or open-source contributions.
Commitment to high-quality engineering practices and maintainable code.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of relevant experience, OR
Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 3+ years of relevant experience.
The experience must include:
Linux Kernel Development1:
Strong experience in Linux kernel development with emphasis on x86 platform architecture.
Hands-on experience developing and debugging Linux kernel drivers and kernel subsystems.
Experience working with one or more Linux kernel subsystems such as:
Device drivers and platform drivers
Memory management
Power management and ACPI
Scheduler or interrupt handling
Virtualization or I/O subsystems
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Development Tools
Proficiency with Git-based development workflows.
Experience submitting or maintaining upstream Linux kernel patches.
Familiarity with Linux kernel build systems and configuration management.
Debugging and Performance
Strong debugging skills using kernel-level diagnostic tools.
Experience with system performance analysis, power optimization, and memory management.

Job Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, California, FolsomAdditional Locations:US, California, Santa Clara, US, Oregon, HillsboroBusiness group:The Software Team drives customer value by enabling differentiated experiences through leadership AI technologies and foundational software stacks, products, and services. The group is responsible for developing the holistic strategy for client and data center software in collaboration with OSVs, ISVs, developers, partners and OEMs. The group delivers specialized NPU IP to enable the AI PC and GPU IP to support all of Intel's market segments. The group also has HW and SW engineering experts responsible for delivering IP, SOCs, runtimes, and platforms to support the CPU and GPU/accelerator roadmap, inclusive of integrated and discrete graphics.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $149,600.00-211,200.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will be eligible for our hybrid work model which allows employees to split their time between working on-site at their assigned Intel site and off-site. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

What Intel employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Intel logo

About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968

View All Intel Jobs

Apply