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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Austin, TX

Celestica

BSP Engineer (Linux Kernel, C)

Austin, TX · On-site

Solid C programming skills with working C++knowledge * In-depth understanding of Linux kernel, device driver, IPC, U-boot. * Familiarity with Linux application development. Knowledge of Real time OS ...

Celestica Inc.

BSP Engineer (Linux Kernel, C)

Austin, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Solid C programming skills with working C++knowledge * In-depth understanding of Linux kernel, device driver, IPC, U-boot. * Familiarity with Linux application development. Knowledge of Real time OS ...

SambaNova

Senior Kernel & Device Drivers Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

Experience with Linux kernel, drivers, user space libraries, and applications * Strong Linux fundamentals * Strong C/C++ programming and debugging skills; scripting experience - Python or Shell

Nutanix

RISC-V Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$212 - $318/hr

Drive upstream contributions to the OpenSBI, KVM and Linux kernel, ensuring long-term ... Collaborate with hardware engineers to enable software stack on silicon and emulation platforms ...

Nastech Global

C/C++ Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

$48.50 - $65.50/hr

C/C++ Developer with Data Structure and Relational DB Location: Austin, TX/Sunnyvale, CA (onsite ... Knowledge of Linux Kernel development Pre-Screening Questionnaire Hands on coding exp on Embedded c ...

Celestica

Staff Engineer, Software

Austin, TX

Experience in Real Time OS / Linux kernel memory management, interrupts, IOMMU Preferred ... engineered aviation systems, to next-generation hardware platform solutions for the Cloud.

Celestica

Senior Staff Engineer, Software

Austin, TX · On-site

$119K - $157K/yr

Experience in Real Time OS / Linux kernel memory management, interrupts, IOMMU * Proven ability to ... engineered aviation systems, to next-generation hardware platform solutions for the Cloud.

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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$100.1K

$147.8K

$174.5K

How much do freelance linux kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Austin, TX is $147,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,300.00 and $163,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you

FULL-TIME opportunity for Staff Firmware Engineer with Device Driver & MPEG/H.264 Exp.

Stem Xpert

Austin, TX • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Description

JOB TITLE: Sr. Software Engineer for Linux Kernel, Device Driver, STB Middleware Integration,               Mpeg/H.264 Video decoder and Audio decoder

BAND: A3

Annual Base salary : $80,000- $85,000/annum + client benefits

REPORTING TO: Project Manager

JOB ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Job Description and Responsibilities
 Linux Kernel and Device Driver development
STB Middleware Integration
MPEG/H.264 video decoder
Audio decoder
STB Firmware and system debugging
Linux and RTOS knowledge
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
 Works Linux Kernel development and Device Drivers
 Works on STB Middleware and integration
Works on MPEG/H.264 video decoder
 Works on Audio Decoder
Strong Programming Skills in C
Works on RTOS
Strong Debugging and Troubleshooting Skills
Process and Quality Focus
STB Firmware Development Experience

Key Skills - Mandatory:
 Linux Kernel & Device Driver Development
STB Middleware and integration
MPEG/H.264 video decoder
 Strong Programming Skills in C
 RTOS and Firmware Development

Key Skills - Desirable:
 Knowledge on DIRECTV CDI or HDI is a plus
Common Skills:
 Excellent documentation, design, analytical and problem solving skills.
Strong communication skills. Person should be able to communicate effectively within the company as well as with different functional groups at customer site.
Candidate should have a "can-do" attitude and be able to work both collaboratively and independently.
Ability to handle a fast paced, dynamic work environment where priorities may change quickly.

Additional Information


stem xpert logo

About stem xpert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

STEM Xpert, based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is a leading company in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education industry. Since their establishment, they have made an indelible mark by providing innovative services and products designed to enhance STEM learning. Their service portfolio includes comprehensive educational programs, customized learning modules and interactive STEM kits. Driven by a passion for nurturing young minds, the company's mission is to bring about an educational renaissance in the STEM field, making learning not just theoretical but practical and fun. One notable achievement for STEM Xpert has been its success in reaching a broad spectrum of learners, from school-age to adults, contributing significantly towards empowering the community's technological and scientific literacy.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

2012

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