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Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Washington, DC

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Hanover, MD · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Experience with Linux kernel and drivers * Experience with malware analysis * Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Hanover, MD and the work requires ...

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Laurel, MD

... Linux kernel and drivers -Experience with malware analysis -Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Laurel, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full ...

stanleyreid

Reverse Engineer - FS Poly

Hanover, MD

... Linux kernel and drivers -Experience with malware analysis -Experience with vulnerability research and exploit development This role is located in Hanover, MD and the work requires a TS/SCI + Full ...

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All JobsLinux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development JobsFreelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs in Washington, DC

Freelance Linux Kernel Development information

See Washington, DC salary details

$114.4K

$168.8K

$199.3K

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance linux kernel development in Washington, DC is $168,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $154,600.00 and $186,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Washington, DC?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs in Washington, DC are:

Freelance Linux Kernel Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Linux Kernel Development job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,827 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Viasat, Inc.

Linthicum Heights, MD • On-site

$145K - $218K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Viasat rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 101 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

This is a role for a Embedded Software Engineer within Secure Netowrk Systems (SNS) - Viasat Government who is eager to contribute to a small, fast-paced team. You will develop software to support encrypted communications systems including Layer 2 and Layer 3 In-line Network Encryptors, embedded cryptographic devices, and emerging cryptographic solutions. You will interface and collaborate with system, test, and hardware engineers as new capabilities are developed and transitioned into service.


The day-to-day
  • Design and implementation with embedded software in C/C++ and Rust
  • Linux OS use, for an embedded environment
  • TCP/IP and common network configuration
  • Object-oriented software development
  • Agile Scrum development
  • Ability to plan, track and report on progress
  • CI/CD software development
  • Good oral and written communications skills
  • Linux kernel driver development/modifications
  • Familiarity with to bare metal embedded device drivers
  • Microprocessors and embedded processors (NIOS, ARM, RISC-V, etc.)
  • Networking protocols (e.g. IPSec, MACsec, TLS, etc.)
  • Python development
  • Standalone embedded applications
  • Participating in multi-disciplinary teams

What you'll need
  • At least 2-3 years of design and implementation experience with embedded software in C/C++
  • At least 1 year Linux OS use, ideally for an embedded environment
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications
  • Rust experience is preferred
  • Design and implementation experience with embedded software in C/C++
  • Basic understanding of TCP/IP and common network configuration
  • Object-oriented software development experience
  • Agile Scrum development experience
  • Ability to plan, track, and report on progress
  • CI/CD software
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field
  • US citizenship and an active SECRET or TOP SECRET security clearance
  • Ability to travel up to 10%
  • #LI-SA1

What will help you on the job
  • Familiarity with to bare metal embedded device drivers
  • Experience with microprocessors and embedded processors (NIOS, ARM, RISC-V, etc.)
  • Experience with RESTConf interface design and implementation
  • Experience with Emulation Environments
  • Experience with networking protocols (e.g. IPSec, MACsec, TLS, etc.)
  • Experience with Python
  • Familiarity with to standalone embedded applications
  • Experience participating in multi-disciplinary teams

Salary range
$117,000.00 - $185,000.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $145,000.00- $218,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at https://careers.viasat.com/benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • At least 2-3 years of design and implementation experience with embedded software in C/C++
  • At least 1 year Linux OS use, ideally for an embedded environment
  • Familiarity with Linux kernel driver development/modifications
  • Rust experience is preferred
  • Design and implementation experience with embedded software in C/C++
  • Basic understanding of TCP/IP and common network configuration
  • Object-oriented software development experience
  • Agile Scrum development experience
  • Ability to plan, track, and report on progress
  • CI/CD software
  • Good oral and written communication skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field
  • US citizenship and an active SECRET or TOP SECRET security clearance
  • Ability to travel up to 10%
  • #LI-SA1
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986

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