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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in East Orange, NJ

Quantitative Software Developer Intern

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Linux kernel development, compilers, embedded systems, networking, file systems, debuggers) * In-depth understanding of how userland programs run on Linux and interact with the kernel * Some basic ...

* Senior Linux Systems Engineer - (Kernel & Performance) * New York, NY (Hybrid, 3 days in office ... We are seeking a visionary engineer to drive deep optimization and development within the Linux ...

... with kernel development, the emphasis flips: you'd rarely develop the kernel itself, though ... Comfortable at the command line of a Linux machine (whether from coursework, side projects, or time ...

... with kernel development, the emphasis flips: you'd rarely develop the kernel itself, though ... Comfortable at the command line of a Linux machine (whether from coursework, side projects, or time ...

... development environment critical for trading strategy development \n * Developing a deep ... kernel modification \n * Server BIOS configuration and optimization \n * At least 10 years of ...

... development, and optimization of our bare-metal systems from POST through joining a Kubernetes cluster. The team's primary responsibilities include maintaining a custom Linux kernel, various OS ...

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Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

See East Orange, NJ salary details

$105.4K

$155.5K

$183.6K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in East Orange, NJ is $155,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $142,400.00 and $172,100.00 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 job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in East Orange, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in East Orange, NJ are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings in East Orange, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $155,494 per year, or $74.8 per hour.

Senior Systems Developer - Linux Kernel & Performance

Elliot Partnership

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

  • Senior Linux Systems Developer - Quant Systems (Kernel & Performance)
  • New York, NY (Hybrid, 3 days in office)
  • Highly competitive compensation package

Join an elite technology and research group at the forefront of global finance, where world-class engineering and quantitative research converge to solve some of the most complex problems in any industry. Their teams are composed of passionate problem-solvers who operate in a dynamic, large-scale, low-latency IT environment. We are seeking a visionary engineer to drive deep optimization and development within the Linux operating system, ensuring the firm's complex trading and research platforms operate with maximum performance and efficiency.
The Role
We are seeking a deeply experienced Senior Linux Systems Developer for our Quant Systems team. This is a crucial, hands-on role for a true low-level systems expert who thrives on optimizing performance at the operating system level. You will be a key technical leader responsible for tuning, analyzing, and developing components within the Linux kernel and user space to support our most demanding HPC and low-latency workloads. You will act as a force multiplier by solving the most challenging performance bottlenecks, mentoring other engineers, and setting the standard for deep systems expertise.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and execution of high-impact projects focused on optimizing the performance and reducing the latency of our core Linux-based HPC and trading infrastructure.
  • Develop, debug, and maintain low-level systems software, potentially including kernel modules, eBPF programs, or performance analysis tools, primarily using C, Go, or Python.
  • Serve as a senior escalation point for the most complex Linux systems issues, diagnosing and resolving deep technical challenges related to kernel behavior, performance anomalies, and hardware/OS interactions.
  • Drive the architecture for ultra-performant Linux environments, making key design decisions for production systems based on deep OS-level knowledge.
  • Mentor and guide other engineers, championing best practices in low-level systems development, performance tuning, and diagnostics.

Your experience:
  • 11+ years of experience in a senior systems development or performance engineering role with a track record of success in complex, performance-critical Linux environments.
  • Expert-level proficiency in C or Go, with significant experience in Python also valued; proven track record of developing systems-level software (not just scripting).
  • Deep, hands-on expertise with the Linux operating system internals, including kernel tuning, debugging (gdb, perf, strace), eBPF, and systems administration in a large-scale, performance-sensitive environment.
  • Demonstrated experience leading technical projects, driving deep architectural decisions, and mentoring other engineers in systems programming or performance analysis.
  • Strong knowledge of configuration management tools (e.g. Ansible, Salt) and CI/CD concepts.
  • Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex low-level concepts to a variety of audiences.