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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Virginia

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA

$135K - $177K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be ... Have designed and implemented device drivers and kernel drivers in linux or RTOS Experience with ...

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance Linux kernel developer?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia?

For Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Android Platform Engineer with Security Clearance

Elite Government Strategy

Sterling, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Senior Android Platform Engineer Sterling, VA Full-Time U.S. Citizenship Required About the Role We are building a hardened, custom Android platform for deployment across managed device fleets. We are hiring engineers who can own this domain end to end: custom OS builds, OTA delivery, kernel maintenance, device security, and fleet management infrastructure. This is a founding platform engineering role. You will define the architecture, set the standards, and lead as we scale. You will work alongside a growing engineering organization focused on clients ore product lines. What You'll Do • Maintain and extend a custom AOSP-derived platform build, including device trees, vendor partitions, HAL customizations, and system image signing • Design and operate reproducible build pipelines with CI/CD automation and secure release key management • Build an end-to-end OTA update system engineered for reliability in degraded environments - including phased rollout, rollback, and fault-tolerant installation • Build, patch, and maintain custom Linux kernel images for the target platform, including kernel module development and upstream security patch integration • Own the secure boot chain: AVB key infrastructure, bootloader security, SELinux policy authoring, and code signing with proper key lifecycle management • Implement encryption, remote wipe, tamper detection, and rollback protection appropriate for high-assurance environments • Evaluate and integrate cryptographic modules aligned with U.S. government cybersecurity frameworks and standards • Architect device management strategy - enrollment, provisioning, policy enforcement, health monitoring, and compliance reporting across the fleet Required Qualifications • 7+ years software engineering experience, with 4+ years focused on Android platform and system-level development (not application development) • Experience building, modifying, and flashing custom Android system images from AOSP or comparable open-source base • Hands-on experience with Android Verified Boot, bootloader security, and the secure boot chain • Linux kernel development: building from source, module development, devicetree, debugging • Familiarity with Android OTA internals: update_engine, A/B partitioning, payload generation, boot control HAL • Strong security engineering fundamentals: PKI, code signing, chain of trust, FDE/FBE, key management • Proficiency in C/C++, Python, and Shell; working knowledge of Java/Kotlin for framework
level modifications • U.S. citizenship required Preferred Qualifications • Experience with FIPS 140-2/3 cryptographic module integration • Familiarity with U.S. government and regulated environment security frameworks (NIST 800
53 or equivalent) • Experience managing device fleets at scale in operational environments • Experience with Android Enterprise device owner and fully managed device APIs • Contributions to AOSP or open-source Android platform projects • Experience designing update and delivery systems for intermittent or degraded connectivity • HSM-backed signing infrastructure experience