Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Who we are:

Hellbender Inc. is a Pennsylvania Benefit Corporation who partners with innovators to mature their Artificial Intelligence enabled computing sensors and produce their solutions onshore at prototype to high volumes.

Hellbender is intentionally forming an inclusive work environment and is committed to uplifting the historically marginalized identities including veterans, women, trans and underrepresented races in our community and industry.

Job Summary:

Hellbender is seeking an Embedded Linux Engineer to help develop software that enables advanced sensing and computing platforms. This role involves working at the intersection of hardware and software to bring up new devices, integrate peripherals, develop Linux-based solutions, and support product development from prototype through production.

The ideal candidate has experience with embedded systems, Linux development, or low-level software engineering and enjoys working closely with hardware teams to solve challenging technical problems. Experience with Linux kernel development and device drivers is valuable but not required for all candidates. This position offers the opportunity to work across a broad range of technologies including embedded Linux, hardware integration, driver development, system bring-up, software optimization, and AI-enabled edge computing platforms.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop, test, and maintain software for embedded Linux systems.
• Support hardware bring-up and validation activities for new products and prototypes.
• Integrate and configure sensors, cameras, communications interfaces, and other peripheral devices.
• Create, modify, and troubleshoot Linux device drivers and system software as needed.
• Assist with Linux board support package (BSP) development and platform integration.
• Debug software and system-level issues using logs, test equipment, and development tools.
• Collaborate closely with hardware, firmware, manufacturing, and product teams throughout the product lifecycle.
• Contribute to system architecture, performance optimization, and product reliability improvements.
• Participate in code reviews, testing, and technical documentation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 3+ years of experience in embedded software, embedded Linux, firmware, systems programming, or related disciplines.
• Strong programming skills in C or C++.
• Experience developing software on Linux-based systems.
• Familiarity with embedded hardware interfaces such as SPI, I2C, UART, USB, Ethernet, CAN, PCIe, or related technologies.
• Experience troubleshooting and debugging software and hardware integration issues.
• Ability to read technical documentation and work effectively in a multidisciplinary engineering environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience developing Linux kernel modules or device drivers.
• Familiarity with Linux kernel architecture and debugging tools.
• Experience with Yocto, Buildroot, or other embedded Linux build environments.
• Knowledge of Device Tree configuration and board support packages.
• Experience working with ARM, RISC-V, or x86 platforms.
• Familiarity with hardware debugging tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, or JTAG debuggers.
• Experience with imaging systems, camera sensors, machine vision, or AI-enabled edge devices.
• Experience with Python or scripting languages for automation and testing.
• Contributions to open-source projects or Linux-based software ecosystems.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 5-7 years of experience specifically in Linux kernel-space development and driver writing preferred.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 5% Safe Harbor Contribution to 401k by Hellbender
• 100% of Health, Dental, and Vision insurance premiums for employees and their families paid by Hellbender
• 7.5 weeks total Paid time off
• Profit Sharing (through 401k)
• Hybrid work environment & flexible work schedule

Work Location: UPARC Pittsburgh

Opportunity for advancement:

Hellbender is a growing business and follows a policy that prioritizes internal promotions. As new positions are created new opportunities for advancement will be created as well.