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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

We are forming a new team focused solely on Kernel development, collaborating with the upstream community, and setting new industry standards for fast file systems. Requirements Linux Kernel ...

VAST Data

Linux Kernel Developer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

We are forming a new team focused solely on Kernel development, collaborating with the upstream community, and setting new industry standards for fast file systems. Requirements Linux Kernel ...

Team Red Dog

Senior Linux Kernel Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$56 - $61/hr

Strong Linux kernel development and device driver programming (C/C++) - used to build, enhance, and debug low-level system functionality supporting hardware integration. * Deep understanding of ...

Jobgether

Our partner is looking for a Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement based in Netherlands ... You will diagnose and resolve complex low-level issues, contribute directly to kernel development ...

Apple

Linux Kernel Engineer

Seattle, WA

$142K - $263K/yr

As a Linux Kernel Engineer, you will own the kernel lifecycle end to end, from CI infrastructure ... releases from development through production, we would like to hear from you. Preferred ...

CEDENT

Kernel Developer (eBPF)

$40 - $60/hr

Linux kernel development experience with emphasis on the network stack and its interfaces is highly desirable e.g. * Programming experience at the sockets layer, protocol layer, device layer and ...

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

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development 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 some common challenges faced by freelance Linux Kernel developers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance Linux Kernel developers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex codebases without in-house support, aligning with clients’ specific kernel customization requirements, and ensuring thorough testing across diverse hardware environments. Effective communication is essential, as misunderstandings about project scope or technical specifications can arise without face-to-face interactions. Building strong documentation habits and using collaborative tools can help streamline workflows and maintain clarity throughout the development process.

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 in-depth knowledge of C programming, operating system concepts, and Linux kernel architecture, often demonstrated by a degree in computer science or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, debugging tools such as GDB, and open-source collaboration platforms is typically necessary. Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and effective communication are crucial for managing independent projects and collaborating with distributed teams. These skills ensure you can deliver robust kernel code, troubleshoot complex issues, and contribute meaningfully to open-source projects or client requirements.

What is freelance Linux kernel development?

Freelance Linux kernel development involves independently working on the Linux operating system's core, either by contributing to the mainline kernel, developing custom modules, or supporting companies with kernel-level issues. Freelancers in this field often tackle tasks such as writing device drivers, optimizing system performance, or integrating hardware with Linux. The work requires deep expertise in C programming and an understanding of operating system concepts. Freelancers may collaborate with open-source communities or work directly with clients needing specialized Linux solutions.
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Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,062 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Linux Kernel Developer

Linux Kernel Developer

VAST Data

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
VAST Data is looking for a Linux Kernel Developer to join our growing team!
This is a great opportunity to be part of one of the fastest-growing infrastructure companies in history, an organization that is in the center of the hurricane being created by the revolution in artificial intelligence.
"VAST's data management vision is the future of the market."- Forbes
VAST Data is the data platform company for the AI era. We are building the enterprise software infrastructure to capture, catalog, refine, enrich, and protect massive datasets and make them available for real-time data analysis and AI training and inference. Designed from the ground up to make AI simple to deploy and manage, VAST takes the cost and complexity out of deploying enterprise and AI infrastructure across data center, edge, and cloud.
Our success has been built through intense innovation, a customer-first mentality and a team of fearless VASTronauts who leverage their skills & experiences to make real market impact. This is an opportunity to be a key contributor at a pivotal time in our company's growth and at a pivotal point in computing history.
Requirements
VAST is building the highest-performing file system in the world. This requires innovating all the way into the Linux operating systems that require accessing data at unlimited bandwidth and low latency.
We are forming a new team focused solely on Kernel development, collaborating with the upstream community, and setting new industry standards for fast file systems.
Requirements
Linux Kernel Development Experience
System programming in C/C++.
Solid networking knowledge (OSI network layers, TCP/IP)
Python/Git- advantage
Knowledge block-level Storage/file systems - advantage
BSc/MSc degree in Computer Science, Engineering or equivalent

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