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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in California

Nvidia

System Software Engineering Lead

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

Direct experience on Linux kernel development with a track record of successfully upstreaming patches NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have ...

Qualcomm

Senior Staff Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Qualcomm

#Senior Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Qualifications Additional Information All your ...

Qualcomm

Staff Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Strong experience in Linux Kernel development , especially in areas such as virtualization (KVM), schedulers, and memory management and device trees. * Solid knowledge of ARMv8 and ARMv9 architecture ...

Brilliant

Linux Engineer

San Mateo, CA

Work on a variety of projects with custom built Linux on custom built hardware. Preferred candidate ... Kernel driver development experience preferred. Additional Information All your information will be ...

Qualcomm

Staff Engineer, Linux Device Drivers

San Diego, CA · On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Experience with Linux kernel driver development, kernel modules, sysfs and debugging techniques * Experience with development in C * Experience with git * Willingness to work in a structured software ...

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Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in California?

For Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings:

Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

System Software Engineering Lead

Nvidia Corporation

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Nvidia rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

NVIDIA is searching for a highly motivated, creative engineer with direct experience in Linux kernel mode drivers to help us deliver on the future of GPU driver software. This is a rare opportunity to join a new team working on future drivers for our GPU's. You'll get involved with making key architectural decisions that will have a lasting impact on our software. In this role you'll have the exciting opportunity to figure out how to intersect the GPU and Linux kernel roadmaps to ensure NVIDIA's future success!
What you'll be doing:
  • Work with a small team on a new kernel mode Linux driver that will support the latest generation of NVIDIA GPU's.
  • Collaborate directly with the Linux kernel community to make patches in support of NVIDIA hardware.
  • Influence the architecture and design of NVIDIA GPU kernel software to work well upstream
  • Represent NVIDIA GPU software to the open source community

What we need to see:
  • 10+ years industry experience as a software developer
  • BS or MS degree in EE/CS/CE (or equivalent experience)
  • Experience doing device drivers and kernel mode software
  • Direct experience on Linux kernel development with a track record of successfully upstreaming patches

NVIDIA is widely considered to be one of the technology world's most desirable employers. We have some of the most forward-thinking and hardworking people in the world working for us. If you're creative, passionate and self-motivated, we want to hear from you! NVIDIA is leading the way in groundbreaking developments in Artificial Intelligence, High-Performance Computing and Visualization. The GPU, our invention, serves as the visual cortex of modern computers and is at the heart of our products and services.
Your base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. The base salary range is 184,000 USD - 287,500 USD for Level 4, and 224,000 USD - 356,500 USD for Level 5.
You will also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Applications for this job will be accepted at least until July 28, 2026.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.
NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.
NVIDIA is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Nvidia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Nvidia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It's a unique legacy of innovation that's fueled by great technology--and amazing people. Today, we're tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what's never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world's best talent.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

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