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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Intel Corporation

Linux Kernel Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

Join our team as an entry-level Linux/Android Kernel Engineer where you'll apply your academic knowledge to real-world SoC platform development. We're looking for fresh talent with strong ...

Team Red Dog

Senior Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · Hybrid

$56 - $61/hr

Team Red Dog is hiring a Senior Linux Kernel Engineer for our client, a leading international cloud and software provider and industry-leading technology partner. This hybrid role (Hillsboro, OR ...

ALTEN

Senior Engineer - Linux Kernel

Austin, TX · On-site

About The OpportunityThe Senior Engineer - Systems (Kernel Sustaining) provides technical expertise and leadership for maintaining Linux kernel components, drivers, and subsystems. Senior Engineers ...

Rubix Recruiting

Linux Kernel Engineer

Longmont, CO

Embedded Linux - including the build system, kernel configuration, device drivers, boot loader, device tree and filesystem, core application development, network configuration, testing * C, Python

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Freelance Linux Kernel Developer information

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$101K

$149.1K

$176K

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

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel developer in the United States is $149,062.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $165,000.00 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.

More about Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Developer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs are:
Freelance Linux Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 72% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,062 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Linux Kernel Engineer

Linux Kernel Engineer

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc

Austin, TX • On-site

$101.50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Advanced Micro Devices rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

WHAT YOU DO AT AMD CHANGES EVERYTHING
At AMD, our mission is to build great products that accelerate next-generation computing experiences-from AI and data centers, to PCs, gaming and embedded systems. Grounded in a culture of innovation and collaboration, we believe real progress comes from bold ideas, human ingenuity and a shared passion to create something extraordinary. When you join AMD, you'll discover the real differentiator is our culture. We push the limits of innovation to solve the world's most important challenges-striving for execution excellence, while being direct, humble, collaborative, and inclusive of diverse perspectives. Join us as we shape the future of AI and beyond. Together, we advance your career.
THE ROLE:
AMD's server software and solutions engineering team is seeking a senior engineer to join the Linux Kernel and Virtualization development team. This role requires good understanding x86 architecture as well as experience with open-source engagement and upstreaming. You will work on enabling AMD x86-64 architecture features in Linux, designing and developing core CPU and SoC features for the Linux kernel and related open-source projects. The role spans all phases of software development, with a focus on feature/roadmap related to ACPI, PCIe, RAS, CXL and few other sub systems in the Linux Kernel. This position is based in Austin.
THE PERSON:
A highly motivated and passionate professional with deep technical expertise and a proven track record, eager to work with cutting-edge technologies in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate thrives in collaboration and innovation, playing a crucial role in optimizing and showcasing the full capabilities of AMD products through advanced software and solutions, while actively influencing the next generation of product development.
Key Responsibilities:
Drive features and functionality to our partner technical teams both internal and external including the Linux kernel community. Support the solutions offered by our partner companies. Review code, build unit tests, and write detailed documentation. Collaborate!
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Extensive expertise in x86 computing architecture
  • Proven experience across the entire software development lifecycle
  • In-depth knowledge of kernels, virtualization, and security
  • Advanced Linux Kernel debugging skills across kernel subsystems, virtualization.
  • Advanced understanding and experience with the Linux kernel and related upstream development workflow
  • Advanced programming skills in C for operating system kernel & systems development
  • Exposure to KVM/QEMU (including x86-64 virtualization extensions) is a plus
  • Experience with the GNU toolchain
  • Proficient use of git
  • Experience with open source software development, building and submitting patches on a mailing list, and working with external software partners
  • Deep understanding of operating systems concepts, data structures, x86-64 architecture, ACPI, and PCIE
  • Experience with low-level debug tools as well as emulators and simulators
  • Background in IO, core kernel preferred
  • Successful track record in contributions to open-source projects

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS:
  • Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineer, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related field
  • 4+ years experience

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
#LI-AP2
Benefits offered are described: AMD benefits at a glance.
AMD does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies, or fee-based recruitment services. AMD and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity, inclusive employers and will consider all applicants without regard to age, ancestry, color, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, race, religion, political and/or third-party affiliation, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates and will accommodate applicants' needs under the respective laws throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process.
AMD may use Artificial Intelligence to help screen, assess or select applicants for this position. AMD's "Responsible AI Policy" is available here.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

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