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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Katy, TX

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

LWC, Inc.

Linus Admin/Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

An excellent techie with strong experience in OS Engineering, Kernel Development, ProLiant Server, Networking * Linux debugging skill * Very well versed with debugging and rot cause analysis * Linux ...

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Systems Software Expert

Spring, TX · On-site

$154K - $182K/yr

Knowledge of Linux kernel developers- device driver development with focus on networking devices * Knowledge of InfiniBand and programming with RDMA Verbs * Background in embedded system architecture ...

Amsys Innovative Solutions

AI Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Experience with Docker, Kubernetes (AKS), Linux, CI/CD, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions, and Terraform/Bicep. * Knowledge of AI evaluation, performance tuning, LangChain, Semantic Kernel, and Azure ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Katy, TX

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Katy, TX salary details

$92.7K

$136.8K

$161.5K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Katy, TX is $136,762.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,200.00 and $151,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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

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

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

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

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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you

Senior Embedded Linux Engineer

Robotics Prcocess Automation, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a Senior Embedded Linux Engineer to join our engineering team and play a critical role in developing the software and firmware that powers drone systems. You’ll design, optimize, and maintain embedded Linux solutions for drone operations, working closely with robotics, hardware, and cloud engineering teams. This is a hands‑on role for an experienced engineer who thrives in fast‑paced environments, loves solving hard technical problems, and wants their work to directly impact public safety.

Key Responsibilities
  • Own Linux kernel CI/CD, cross compilation, and modification pipeline
  • Contribute to system software and hardware architecture decisions, ensuring scalability, reliability, and safety in mission‑critical applications.
  • Integrate new software systems within an embedded Linux system.
  • Integrate new hardware systems within an embedded Linux system by modifying or writing drivers.
  • Debug, profile, and test systems to ensure performance and reliability.
  • Collaborate with robotics, hardware, and cloud teams to integrate new features.
Required
  • Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience)
  • 3+ years of professional experience in embedded Linux systems development.
  • Experience with embedded Linux platforms (Nvidia Jetson, Qualcomm RB5, NXP i.MX, or similar).
  • Experience in Linux kernel modification, kernel module creation, and driver debugging.
  • Writing and modifying Linux drivers.
  • Familiarity with wireless driver stacks (Wi‑Fi/BT/LTE).
  • Solid understanding of MIPI CSI interfaces, camera sensor integration, and V4L2 pipeline.
  • Proficient with embedded toolchains, cross‑compiling, and kernel/boot‑loader customization.
  • Comfortable working with hardware prototypes, schematics, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers.
  • Eligibility to work in the U.S.
Preferred
  • 5+ years of professional experience in embedded Linux systems development.
  • Experience with custom PCB bring‑up and low‑level hardware debugging.
  • Familiarity with sensor initialization via I2C/SPI/CANBUS and power sequencing.
  • Experience with camera tuning (gain, exposure, white balance) or GStreamer pipelines.
  • Proficiency with Yocto or Buildroot for embedded Linux build automation.
  • Experience with JTAG/SWD debuggers, bootloader recovery, or automated hardware tests.
  • Knowledge of edge AI model deployment.
  • Familiarity with USB SuperSpeed, Linux gadget drivers, and PCIe peripherals.
  • Experience working with mobile or IoT Linux devices.

ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC is an equal opportunity employer inclusive of female, minority, disability and veterans (M/F/D/V). Hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, termination and all other employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, national origin, citizenship/immigration status, veteran status or any other protected status. ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC will not make any posting or employment decision that does not comply with applicable laws relating to labor and employment, equal opportunity, employment eligibility requirements or related matters. Nor will ROBOTIC PROCESS AUTOMATION LLC require in a posting or otherwise U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency in the U.S. as a condition of employment except as necessary to comply with law, regulation, executive order, or federal, state, or local government contract.

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