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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Nwis

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

NewGen Technologies

Linux Developer

Herndon, VA · On-site

... Kernel development experience is desired) * Demonstrated in-depth understanding of low level system development for Linux/Unix internals and APIs * Demonstrated experience working in a cross-platform ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate ... Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance ...

HawkEye 360

Principal Embedded Linux Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Lead board bring-up efforts, kernel customization, device driver development, and device tree ... Mentor embedded software engineers on Linux internals, driver development, and debugging techniques ...

VTG

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA

Experience with Android/Linux kernel development or driver development. * Experience reverse engineering with Ghidra or IDAPro. * Experience designing embedded software systems. * Experience ...

VTG

Software Developer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Experience with Android/Linux kernel development or driver development. * Experience reverse engineering with Ghidra or IDAPro. * Experience designing embedded software systems. * Experience ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$114.4K

$168.8K

$199.3K

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Washington, DC is $168,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,600.00 and $186,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Linux Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you

VA cleared openings with Security Clearance

The Josef Group Inc.

Chantilly, VA

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

1. Software Cloud Engineer $240K - $260K Chantilly, VA TS/SCI with FSP 2. Windows Kernel Developer (3+ YOE) $210K to $270K Chantilly, VA Top Secret or TS/SCI 3.

Geospatial Data Scientist (3+ YOE) $220K to $240K McLean, VA TS/SCI with FSP 4. Full Stack Developer (8+ YOE) $220K to $240K McLean, VA TS/SCI with FSP 5. Linux Kernel Developer - Top Secret Chantilly or Arlington VA $215K to $275K Rush resumes to Debbie Peda,

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