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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Washington, DC

TalentRemedy

Embedded Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$125 - $155/hr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user‑space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

Qrypt

Embedded Software Engineer

Germantown, MD · Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

The Embedded Software Engineer will own the design, development, and test of digital logic and ... Linux kernel modules, and user-space Linux software * Assist in the design, review, and debug of ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 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 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

Embedded Software Engineer

TalentRemedy

Herndon, VA • On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

An aerospace client is seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the team and will be responsible for implementing electrical components into hardware and firmware needed for our commercial Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Their system consists of a constellation of commercial satellites and a network of ground stations and as the Embedded Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing and implementing innovative software solutions at the heart of our GNSS satellite, payload, and receiver solutions. Further, you will work directly with their Chief Engineer and the entire engineering team to design, develop and test software that leverages the company’s proprietary satellite and RF technologies.

Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop and test different software solutions required for our client's proprietary Payload and advanced electronics systems.
  • Evaluate system and test electrical and software performance utilizing hardware-in-the-loop.
  • Work with the payload systems team, ground infrastructure and various vendors to develop software solutions.
  • Maintain an unwavering focus on meeting development targets and achieving objectives.




Requirements
  • BS or MS in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of satellite, RF, Defense, Aerospace, or Wireless experience
  • Ability to develop, test, debug software and firmware in C/C++/Rust
  • Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux
  • Support the Space and Ground Segment Operations team in system commissioning, operations automation, anomaly investigation and mitigation.
  • Test software in simulation and hardware-in-the-loop environments, including the development of comprehensive unit and regression tests.
  • Must have worked on CI/CD utilizing tools such as gitlab-runner, bitbucket pipelines or jenkins.
  • Must have knowledge of one scripting language such as Python, Shell scripts etc.
  • Must have knowledge of one build tools such as Make, Bitbake, Cmake, Meson, etc.
  • Travel up to 20%
  • US Citizen or US Permanent Resident Status (Green Card).
  • Have worked directly in the Space Payload Systems, designed and developed Flight/Mission Software and integrated software used in different subsystems.
  • Have worked in the software development of GNSS, GPS and PNT solutions or application of positioning solutions.Have designed and implemented device drivers and kernel drivers in linux or RTOS.
  • Experience with FPGAs, Hardware RTL, SDR development.