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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Middle River, MD

CNO Reverse Engineer

Hanover, MD ยท On-site

$185 - $190/hr

The Level 2 CNO Reverse Engineer shall possess the following capabilities: program in Assembly, C ... Experience with Linux kernel development, kernel module analysis, device driver development, and ...

Sr. Linux Systems Administrator

Columbia, MD ยท On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

Sr. Linux Systems Administrator

Columbia, MD ยท On-site

$145 - $165/hr

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

Sr. Linux Systems Administrator

Columbia, MD ยท On-site

$145K - $165K/yr

RHEL administration (installation, patching, performance tuning, kernel and systemd, storage, and ... Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) * HPC experience with PBS ...

Requirements โ€ข Understanding of Linux Kernel and device derivers โ€ข Experience reading and ... and developers *MUST HAVE TS/ SCI w/ FSP Benefits PTO: Our variable PTO plan lets you decide the ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Middle River, MD salary details

$94.8K

$139.9K

$165.2K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Middle River, MD is $139,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,100.00 and $154,900.00 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 cities near Middle River, MD are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Middle River, MD with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Senior Software Developer (Secret Clearance Required)

NextGen Federal Systems

Aberdeen, MD โ€ข On-site

$58.50 - $77.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and implement software solutions including application software, tooling software, web applications, and embedded Linux applications.

  • Participate in software and systems testing to ensure reliable interaction among software modules and with associated systems.

  • Analyze, troubleshoot, and solve complex engineering problems by integrating solutions within DoD and Open Architecture Software Frameworks.


Job description

NextGen Federal Systems is seeking a Senior Software Developer in Aberdeen, Maryland. The Senior Software Developer is responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced software solutions for defense and mission-critical applications. This position involves full lifecycle software development activities, integration of solutions into Department of Defense (DoD) and open architecture software frameworks, and support for both classified and unclassified environments. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, excels in both team and independent settings, and demonstrates a strong commitment to quality, security, and innovation.
Responsibilities and Duties
  • Design, develop, and implement robust prototypes and production-ready solutions, encompassing application software, tooling software, web applications, and embedded Linux applications to address customer and program needs.
  • Participate in comprehensive software and systems testing, ensuring reliable interaction among various software modules and with associated systems.
  • Analyze, troubleshoot, and solve complex engineering problems, effectively integrating solutions using commercially available, open-source, and internally developed software to satisfy requirements within DoD and Open Architecture Software Frameworks.
  • Develop and maintain automated documentation generation pipelines, implement unit testing strategies, and perform coverage analysis to assure high-quality and verifiable software deliverables.
  • Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams while also managing independent work streams; communicate technical concepts clearly in both verbal and written formats for stakeholders at all levels.
  • Provide expert insight into software architecture, particularly as it concerns integration with or operation on classified systems and platforms.
Qualifications and Required Skills
  • Active DoD Secret Security Clearance
  • Bachelors in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related field 3-5+ years of experience in developing software. Flexible, contingent on proficiencies and experience
  • Experience with DevOps tools (Gitlab, Jira, Nexus, Artifactory, etc.)
  • Experience with Git version control
  • Basic knowledge of hardware terminology
  • In-depth knowledge and hands on development experience with Android, Java/ JavaScript , C, C++, C# etc.
  • Experience with Gradle
  • Knowledgeable in scripting languages such as Bash, Python
  • Experience with Docker
  • Experience with database and cloud architecture
  • Experience with Linux
  • Experience with developing and using APIs
  • Preferred Qualifications and Skills
  • Experience working in an Agile environment
  • Experience working with software defined radios such as Nett Warrior, Trellisware, or MPU5s
  • Experience with Kubernetes or similar container orchestration tools
  • Knowledge of networking/security including but not limited to IPv6, VLANs, virtual networking, intrusion detection systems, and general networking security practices
  • Demonstrated proficiency or ability to learn to develop new CI/CD pipelines for building, testing, and deploying software
  • Demonstrated proficiency or ability to learn about DoD air and space systems
  • Experience with Kibana and ElasticSearch
  • Experience with NVIDIA Cuda tool kit
  • Experience with Linux Kernel development/ modification
NextGen Federal Systems is an innovative technology and professional services provider specializing in advanced software solutions and comprehensive mission and business support services. We work in close collaboration with our customers to truly understand their business and mission goals. Our approach is to design, build, implement, and manage solutions that measurably improve our client’s organizational performance. We have established and foster a corporate culture where we:

•Treat employees with fairness and respect regardless of their position, sexual identity, race, or tenure.
•Communicate the importance of our mission and our employees’ contributions to it, ensuring they understand how their job role contributes to the greater good.
•Openly promote and communicate our ideas for change and adaptability.
•Strive to achieve results as an organization.
•Hold employees accountable to their commitments and provide incentives that encourage positive and productive behaviors.
•Value the talents and contributions of our employees as the key factor for our success.
•Create an environment where people can engage at all levels.
•Encourage people to take risks and allow them to make mistakes.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.

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