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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

OS Kernel Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$128.88K - $181.94K/yr

Utilizes knowledge in software architecture, design, debug, development, operating system internals, and silicon on platform features. Qualifications: Intel Linux Core Kernel team is responsible for ...

JD: • C/C++ - Strong Hands on • Linux Kernel Development - Strong Hands on • Product development engineering experience SDLC Understanding • Firmware/Network Driver Experience - Must • CI ...

Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications * Familiarity with RTOS and standalone embedded applications * Familiarity with Ethernet standard and protocols * Familiarity with ...

Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications * Familiarity with RTOS and standalone embedded applications * Familiarity with Ethernet standard and protocols * Familiarity with ...

Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications * Familiarity with RTOS and standalone embedded applications * Familiarity with Ethernet standard and protocols * Familiarity with ...

Senior Software engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$121.60K - $160.40K/yr

C/C++ - Development experience and data structures understanding Linux Window Kernel device driver knowledge System Migration Deployments preferred Firmware/Driver knowledge Virtualization ...

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Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

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$100.3K

$148K

$174.8K

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in Phoenix, AZ is $148,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,500.00 and $163,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
OS Kernel Engineer

OS Kernel Engineer

Intel

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$128.88K - $181.94K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Intel rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 137 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Details:Job Description: Maintains, tests, debugs, optimizes, secures, and/or evaluates OS Kernel and system software, including device drivers, virtualization, hypervisor, and/or other software technologies in open source. Utilizes knowledge in software architecture, design, debug, development, operating system internals, and silicon on platform features.Qualifications:Intel Linux Core Kernel team is responsible for intel product enabling and support in Linux Kernel, system libraries and tooling. We work with open source upstream community and internal teams to develop, integrate and validate open source software, to make sure they provide best power and performance experience on Intel platforms. We're looking for software developers to work on Linux kernel integrate and automation, issue analysis and triage, and manage distribution of best known configurations to support Intel product development.The successful candidate is expected to possess strong problem triage and sys-debug skill at the OS level, able to efficiently using popular revision control tools such as Git, and familiar with Linux kernel development and pull-requests migration. Hands-on experience on using Agentic AI development work flow is preferred.Job Qualifications:- Bachelor, Master or Doctor candidate in CS or EE related majors- Excellent understanding of Intel architecture- Proficient with one or two in programing languages of C/C++, Rust, Go, Node.js, Python, etc,.- Collaborative, Self-motivated, and Adaptive to changesJob Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, Oregon, HillsboroAdditional Locations:US, Arizona, Phoenix, US, California, Folsom, US, California, Santa ClaraBusiness group:The Software Team drives customer value by enabling differentiated experiences through leadership AI technologies and foundational software stacks, products, and services. The group is responsible for developing the holistic strategy for client and data center software in collaboration with OSVs, ISVs, developers, partners and OEMs. The group delivers specialized NPU IP to enable the AI PC and GPU IP to support all of Intel's market segments. The group also has HW and SW engineering experts responsible for delivering IP, SOCs, runtimes, and platforms to support the CPU and GPU/accelerator roadmap, inclusive of integrated and discrete graphics.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $128,880.00-181,940.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will be eligible for our hybrid work model which allows employees to split their time between working on-site at their assigned Intel site and off-site. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968