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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Austin, TX

OpenBMC Firmware Developer Austin, TX: 100% Onsite 12 + Months $55-$60/HR Focus ... OpenBMC development for server customer reference boards. Tech: Linux kernel/drivers, I2C/I3C, SPI ...

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

Embedded Software Enginner

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Major electronics systems design company is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer with Linux ALSA kernel device driver experience. In this position you will be responsible for defining and leading ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$134K - $215K/yr

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers for Jetson-based platforms, supporting Ethernet NICs, USB ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers for Jetson-based platforms, supporting Ethernet NICs, USB ...

Embedded Software Enginner

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Major electronics systems design company is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer with Linux ALSA kernel device driver experience. In this position you will be responsible for defining and leading ...

... in Linux Kernel, drivers, Android HAL, and binder, HIDL, AIDL or robust communications protocols. · Usage of common software editor/compiler, source control tools, and hardware debugging ...

This role requires deep expertise in Linux kernel internals, GPU architectures, and high-speed ... Collaborate with the Scheduling and Storage engineering teams to ensure topology-aware placement ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our ... Develop and maintain Linux kernel drivers for Jetson-based platforms, supporting Ethernet NICs, USB ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

OpenBMC Firmware Developer

Dexian DISYS

Austin, TX • On-site

$55 - $60/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description


In-Person Interview Required!
OpenBMC Firmware Developer
Austin, TX: 100% Onsite
12 + Months
$55-$60/HR


Focus:
OpenBMC development for server customer reference boards.


Tech:
Linux kernel/drivers, I2C/I3C, SPI, PCIe, IPMI, Redfish.


Skills:
C/C++, Python, Git, Gerrit, hardware debugging.


Dexian stands at the forefront of Talent + Technology solutions with a presence spanning more than 70 locations worldwide and a team exceeding 10,000 professionals. As one of the largest technology and professional staffing companies and one of the largest minority-owned staffing companies in the United States, Dexian combines over 30 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge technologies to deliver comprehensive global services and support.
Dexian connects the right talent and the right technology with the right organizations to deliver trajectory-changing results that help everyone achieve their ambitions and goals. To learn more, please visit .
Dexian is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.