ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

... with Linux kernel development • Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments • Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Company : Nightwing ...

REDLattice

Linux Developer

Dulles, VA

Previous experience in Linux kernel development. * Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming. * Expertise with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, x64dbg, and Hex-Rays. * In ...

REDLattice

Linux Developer

Dulles, VA · On-site

Previous experience in Linux kernel development. * Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming. * Expertise with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, x64dbg, and Hex-Rays. * In ...

REDLattice

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA

Previous experience in Linux kernel development. * Proficient in C/C++ for systems-level programming. * Expertise with reverse engineering tools such as IDA Pro, Ghidra, x64dbg, and Hex-Rays. * In ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

... with Linux kernel development • Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments • Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Company : Nightwing ...

Nwis

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments * Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Please Note: This ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments * Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Please Note: This ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead or contribute to the design and development of Linux kernel components and device drivers for custom embedded hardware platforms. * Write, review, and maintain high-quality code in C and C++ for ...

Actalent

Embedded Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead or contribute to the design and development of Linux kernel components and device drivers for custom embedded hardware platforms. * Write, review, and maintain high-quality code in C and C++ for ...

Nightwing

Linux Developer with Security Clearance

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with Linux kernel development * Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments * Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques Please Note: This ...

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Linux CNO Software Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $184K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

C, python, Assembly - Demonstrated experience developing, testing and debugging drivers or system level software for Linux (kernel development experience is desired) - Demonstrated understanding of ...

Maxtena Inc

Sr. Embedded Linux System Architect

Germantown, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... development with zero-to-shipped experience across the full product lifecycle * C and C++ proficient and scripting languages such as Python or Bash. * Experience with Linux kernel, device drivers ...

Maxtena Inc

Sr. Embedded Linux System Architect

Germantown, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... development with zero-to-shipped experience across the full product lifecycle * C and C++ proficient and scripting languages such as Python or Bash. * Experience with Linux kernel, device drivers ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLinux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$103.3K

$152.4K

$180K

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in Ashburn, VA is $152,431.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $139,600.00 and $168,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Ashburn, VA?

The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Ashburn, VA?

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

What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you

Linux Developer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Nightwing is a company that provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services. They are seeking an experienced Linux Developer to design, develop, test, and debug high-performance software across multiple hardware architectures in a collaborative, cross-platform environment.
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, test, and debug system-level software for Linux-based platforms
• Contribute to low-level system components, drivers, and core services
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support development across multiple architectures
• Analyze and resolve complex technical issues related to performance, stability, and scalability
• Participate in code reviews and follow best practices for secure and maintainable software development.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience developing, testing, and debugging software in C, C++, and Python
• Minimum 3 years of experience developing, testing, and debugging system-level software for Linux
• Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Linux/Unix internals, including low-level system development, APIs, and interfaces
• Proven experience working in cross-platform environments
• Hands-on experience with one or more of the following architectures: x86/x64, ARM, and/or MIPS
Preferred:
• Experience with Linux kernel development
• Familiarity with embedded systems or performance-critical environments
• Strong debugging skills using system-level tools and techniques
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Apply