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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Des Plaines, IL

Motion Recruitment

Senior Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Linux kernel development experience * Experience working on IoT or connected hardware products * Knowledge of software security principles and secure development practices * Ability to support ...

Astronics

Sr. Engineer, Software (FW)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Has knowledge of and experience with microprocessor firmware or Linux kernel and device-driver development. * Strong familiarity with different microprocessor firmware or Linux operating systems ...

Astronics Corporation

Sr. Engineer, Software (FW)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Has knowledge of and experience with microprocessor firmware or Linux kernel and device-driver development. * Strong familiarity with different microprocessor firmware or Linux operating systems ...

Astronics

Sr. Engineer, Software (FW)

Waukegan, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Has knowledge of and experience with microprocessor firmware or Linux kernel and device-driver development. Strong familiarity with different microprocessor firmware or Linux operating systems ...

Astronics

Sr. Engineer, Software (FW)

Waukegan, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Has knowledge of and experience with microprocessor firmware or Linux kernel and device-driver development. Strong familiarity with different microprocessor firmware or Linux operating systems ...

Framestore

Freelance: Nuke - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64.75 - $73/hr

Eagerness to learn and self-motivated in pursuit of own professional development * Proven ability ... Photoshop and Linux experience * Must have US work authorization Desired Skills: * Knowledge of ...

Simplex Trading

Infrastructure Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Thorough understanding of Linux (kernel, modules, filesystems) with special emphasis on the network ... development opportunities that increase their skills and enhance their contributions to the ...

Jump Trading

Campus FPGA Engineer (Intern)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250K/yr

Core Development is a global team of technologists who lean into the cutting edge of agentic ... Linux kernel and driver programming * Robotics, Telecommunications, or High Speed Networking

Jump Trading

Campus FPGA Engineer (Intern)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$250K/yr

Core Development is a global team of technologists who lean into the cutting edge of agentic ... Linux kernel and driver programming * Robotics, Telecommunications, or High Speed Networking

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All JobsLinux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Des Plaines, IL

Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

See Des Plaines, IL salary details

$98.4K

$145.3K

$171.5K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in Des Plaines, IL is $145,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,000.00 and $160,800.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Des Plaines, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Des Plaines, IL are:

What cities near Des Plaines, IL are hiring for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs?

Cities near Des Plaines, IL with the most Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings:

Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you

Senior Embedded Engineer

Motion Recruitment Partners, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$127K - $167K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

A growing consumer technology company is seeking a Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join its full-time engineering team in San Francisco, CA. This organization develops innovative connected hardware products that combine sensors, machine learning, mobile applications, and embedded systems to help users improve performance and recovery. The environment is highly technical and focused on Embedded Linux development, firmware engineering, platform security, and IoT connectivity.
This is an opportunity to own critical components of an advanced embedded platform used by customers globally. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex problems around secure boot, Linux systems, firmware architecture, hardware integration, and connected device security. Engineers on this team work with a high degree of autonomy, partner closely with international manufacturing teams, and have a direct impact on product quality and customer experience.
Required Skills & Experience
  • 5+ years of embedded software or firmware development experience
  • Strong C and/or C++ programming skills
  • Deep experience with Embedded Linux environments
  • Hands-on experience with Yocto, Bitbake, and system
  • Linux kernel development experience
  • Experience working on IoT or connected hardware products
  • Knowledge of software security principles and secure development practices
  • Ability to support manufacturing and deployment activities as needed
Desired Skills & Experience
  • Secure boot implementation experience
  • Key management and provisioning expertise
  • Anti-rollback and chain-of-trust experience
  • OP-TEE or Trusted Execution Environment experience
  • Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless protocol experience
  • Experience optimizing performance in resource-constrained systems
  • Strong debugging and problem-solving abilities
What You Will Be Doing
Tech Breakdown
  • 75% Embedded Linux / Firmware Development
  • 15% Platform Security Engineering
  • 10% Wireless Communication & Hardware Integration
Daily Responsibilities
  • 85% Hands-On Development
  • 5% Leadership / Technical Guidance
  • 10% Cross-Functional Collaboration

The Offer
  • Bonus eligible
You will receive the following benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Vacation Time
  • Stock Options

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.
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