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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Manhattan, NY

About the Position Linux Engineers work with the critical infrastructure underlying the rest of the ... On any given day, you could be debugging kernel performance, developing management tools, or ...

... the Linux kernel, systems programming • A passion for solving challenging problems • Strong systems knowledge and prefer some experience in developing low latency systems • Experience with ...

C++ Software Engineer

New York, NY · On-site +1

$175K - $300K/yr

In-depth knowledge of the Linux kernel, systems programming * A passion for solving challenging problems * Strong systems knowledge and prefer some experience in developing low latency systems

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Manhattan, NY salary details

$111.5K

$164.5K

$194.2K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Manhattan, NY is $164,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,600.00 and $182,100.00 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 Manhattan, NY? For Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Manhattan, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Manhattan, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Manhattan, NY are:
What cities near Manhattan, NY are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Manhattan, NY with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Manhattan, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 79% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $164,509 per year, or $79.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

About the Position

Linux Engineers work with the critical infrastructure underlying the rest of the firm's technology. Members of this group are hard-working Systems Engineers, Administrators and Programmers, tasked with maintaining and improving the platform that powers Jane Street's production trading systems. Our mix of in-house and open source software allows you to investigate and innovate at every level. On any given day, you could be debugging kernel performance, developing management tools, or resolving production issues in real time. Diving into tricky systems problems is our specialty.

Deployment automation, scalable configuration management, and obsessive monitoring are the focus of some of our ongoing projects. We automate as much of our work as we can, but not because we are lazy. We find that automation reduces our error rate and overall workload - plus, we think it's fun.

Working in our group provides opportunities for involvement with almost every other facet of the company. We work directly with colleagues in Trading, Technology, and Operations to build and maintain systems with a firm-wide scope. Using feedback from other groups and our custom monitoring tools, we strive to resolve production issues quickly, perform comprehensive root-cause analyses, and integrate long-term fixes in a clean and robust way.

About You

We are looking to hire Systems Programmers and Administrators with a deep knowledge of Unix internals and the Linux ecosystem. Candidates should have a willingness to learn OCaml, our language of choice, and meet the following requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or other technical discipline (or equivalent experience)
  • Clear and concise communication skills, as well as the ability to efficiently analyze and deconstruct technical problems
  • Deep knowledge of operating system fundamentals, especially Linux
  • Fluency with the Unix command line and shell scripting
  • Practical experience with modern Linux systems and systems programming concepts like C, sockets, virtual memory, and the process life cycle
  • Basic understanding of network protocols
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and knowledge of profiling/debugging tools such as gdb, perf, DTrace, eBPF, or SystemTap
  • Programming experience in any language (functional languages a plus)

If you're a recruiting agency and want to partner with us, please reach out to agency-partnerships@janestreet.com.