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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Woodbridge, VA

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

TrustPoint

Embedded Software Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

The Position TrustPoint is currently seeking a Full Time Embedded Software Engineer to join the ... Experience with Embedded linux, RTOS, and Linux kernel or Petalinux * Support the Space and Ground ...

TCOM, L.P.

Staff Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

TCOM, LP

Staff Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

TCOM, L.P.

Staff Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Aerostar, a business unit of TCOM , is seeking a Staff Software Engineer to be responsible for ... Proficient in C, C++, and Linux kernel development, applicable in complex, large-scale systems.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLinux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs in Woodbridge, VA

Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

See Woodbridge, VA salary details

$99.9K

$147.4K

$174.1K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in Woodbridge, VA is $147,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,000.00 and $163,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Woodbridge, VA?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs in Woodbridge, VA are:

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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you

Linux Subject Matter Expert (SME)

DAn Solutions

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Contingent on Funding/Award
We are seeking an experienced Linux Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide advanced systems engineering and operational support for CDSSF Cross Domain Shared Services Framework within a secure Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) environment. This role is embedded with our Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) team and is responsible for maintaining, hardening, troubleshooting, and optimizing Linux-based systems across multiple domains and mission enclaves.
The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), system hardening (STIG), cross domain security architectures, and the accreditation processes necessary to support Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) systems.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead system engineering, patching, configuration, and lifecycle maintenance of RHEL/CentOS/Oracle Linux systems supporting CDS environments.
  • Implement and maintain DISA STIG-compliant baselines using automation tools (e.g., Ansible, SCAP, Puppet).
  • Collaborate with CDS engineers, Information Assurance personnel, and enclave leads to meet ATO/RMF compliance.
  • Troubleshoot kernel-level issues, performance bottlenecks, and cross-domain interface stability.
  • Provide SME-level support for SE Linux, LDAP/Kerberos, and auditing solutions (e.g., syslog, Splunk forwarders).
  • Manage OS provisioning, virtual infrastructure (e.g., VMware or KVM), and baseline image creation for cross-domain enclaves.
  • Assist with developing and maintaining infrastructure-as-code configurations and custom scripts (Bash, Python).
  • Serve as Tier III escalation for complex OS issues affecting CDS reliability or availability.
  • Support enclave isolation and guard-side interface requirements under strict security policies.
  • Document engineering decisions, operational procedures, and system configurations for cross-team knowledge sharing and accreditation packages.

Required Qualifications:
  • U.S. Citizen with active TS/SCI clearance and CI Polygraph (or ability to obtain).
  • 8+ years of experience administering Linux systems in a secure, mission-critical environment.
  • 3+ years supporting cross-domain or multi-enclave environments (CDS, Garrison, SMART.NeXT, CDSSF).
  • Advanced knowledge of RHEL 7/8/9, including system hardening and kernel-level tuning.
  • Experience with automation frameworks and scripting languages (Ansible, Bash, Python).
  • Familiarity with RMF/ATO processes and audit log management.
  • Strong understanding of networking (TCP/IP, firewalls, VLANs, DNS) as it relates to Linux systems.

Desired Qualifications:
  • DoD 8570 IAT Level II or III certification (Security+ CE, CASP+, CISSP).
  • Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or similar Linux certification.
  • Familiarity with CDS guard technologies (Radiant Mercury, Data Diode, Garrison, etc.).
  • Experience with hypervisors and virtual infrastructure supporting isolated environments.
  • Knowledge of Zero Trust, enclave segmentation, and compartmentalized architectures.

Apply