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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Secaucus, NJ

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

C++ Software Engineer

New York, NY ยท 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

As a Linux Engineering intern, you'll work side by side with full-timers to learn how we build and ... fixing a kernel bug, responding to an overheating datacenter in real time, analyzing data to ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Secaucus, NJ salary details

$102.7K

$151.5K

$178.9K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Secaucus, NJ is $151,549.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,800.00 and $167,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Secaucus, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Secaucus, NJ are:

What cities near Secaucus, NJ are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs?

Cities near Secaucus, NJ with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings in Secaucus, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,549 per year, or $72.9 per hour.

Principal systems software engineer

Targeted Talent

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$147K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

About the Company:
Our client is a company building the world's highest- performance pure digital AI inference chip. We are looking for an experienced software engineer with excellent C/C++ programming skills and at least 5 years of related work experience. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in software design, debugging, and performance analysis, and a deep understanding of system level architecture.

Key Requirements:

  • Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related discipline
  • Excellent C/C++ programming skills
  • Strong experience in software design, debugging, and performance analysis
  • Deep understanding of system level architecture
  • Experience with Linux driver or Linux Kernel development
  • Ability to work independently and lead development efforts
  • Experience contributing to large open/closed source projects

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • Minimum 5 years of software engineering or related work experience
  • Masters or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related discipline
  • Experience with Python and using C/C++ libraries from Python (e.g. using Cython)
  • Focus on software quality and testing
  • Experience architecting low and high level APIs
  • Proficient in a variety of development styles and programming languages
  • Ability to build projects from the ground up
  • Comfortable working within a rapidly evolving project
  • Driven and self-directed

Perks:

  • 20 vacation days
  • Strong health and extended health benefits
  • Unlimited sick days
  • Stock options

Please apply even if you don't check all the boxes. We are an inclusive and diverse company and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.


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About Targeted Talent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Your single source for HR professional services, we offer job seekers specialized employment services, spanning contract, permanent positions, and project solutions for highly specialized and managerial level talent needs. Our team of specialized recruiters and consultants abilities extend far beyond resume or career counseling. With hundreds of collaborators strategically located throughout the country, our organization possess the local market knowledge and industry relationships that make successful geography-specific reach possible.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, BC, CA