Freelance Linux Kernel Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Team Red Dog is hiring a Senior Linux Kernel Engineer for our client, a leading international cloud and software provider and industry-leading technology partner. This hybrid role (Hillsboro, OR) sits at the core of systems engineering, driving low-level software development, validation, and performance optimization for next-generation Azure compute platforms. You will work hands-on with Linux kernel development, device driver programming, and system-level debugging to ensure hardware-software integration at scale. The impact is immediate and meaningful—your work directly enables the reliability, performance, and scalability of cutting-edge cloud infrastructure.

Top Required Skills (Must Haves):

1. Strong Linux kernel development and device driver programming (C/C++) – used to build, enhance, and debug low-level system functionality supporting hardware integration.
2. Deep understanding of operating system internals and hardware-software interaction – critical for diagnosing system performance issues and ensuring stability across platforms.
3. Proficiency with kernel build systems, Git, and open-source workflows – enables efficient collaboration, version control, and upstream contributions.
4. Low-level debugging and performance optimization experience – required to resolve kernel crashes, bottlenecks, and hardware compatibility challenges.

Opportunity Overview:
This is a unique opportunity to work on Microsoft's Cobalt SoC compute products powering Azure infrastructure. The role offers deep exposure to hardware-level engineering and open-source contributions, allowing engineers to influence the performance and reliability of cloud-scale systems. You'll collaborate with highly technical teams solving complex problems at the intersection of silicon and software.

How you will make an impact:
• Develop, enhance, and maintain Linux kernel components supporting next-generation SoC hardware
• Design and implement device drivers for seamless hardware integration
• Troubleshoot kernel-level issues including crashes, performance bottlenecks, and compatibility challenges
• Support validation and release of Azure compute platforms
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system reliability and scalability
• Contribute to open-source initiatives and upstream Linux development

The expertise you bring:
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in Linux kernel development and systems programming
• Strong C/C++ programming skills
• Experience with device driver development and low-level debugging
• Familiarity with Git and open-source contribution workflows
• Solid understanding of operating systems, hardware architecture, and system performance tuning

What makes a candidate highly successful in this role:
• Hands-on experience contributing to Linux open-source projects or upstream kernel development
• Ability to independently diagnose and resolve complex system-level issues
• Strong problem-solving mindset with attention to performance and reliability
• Proven track record working on hardware-software integration or SoC environments
• Clear communication skills when working across engineering teams

Why Work with Team Red Dog?
At Team Red Dog, people are at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment to personalized service and our deep experience in matching talented professionals with meaningful roles at some of the world's most inspiring companies is what sets us apart. We take the time to understand your unique skills, strengths, and passions—because we believe your career should reflect who you are.
Whether you're looking to grow, pivot, or simply find a place where your work truly matters, we offer opportunities that empower you to make a positive impact. With excellent benefits, a supportive team, and a role where you can thrive while doing what you love, we're here to help you take the next step with confidence. Join us—and discover what it means to be genuinely valued in your career.

Generous benefits package for qualified employees includes:
• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision, and life)
• Employer-matched 401K plan
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays

Estimated Start Date: Immediately
Location: Hillsboro, OR (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)
Job #: 2515
Job Type and Estimated Duration: W2 contract opportunity with potential for extension up to 18 months subject to performance, budget and client discretion
Rate: $56 to $61 hourly

Team Red Dog is committed to providing equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other characteristic. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, reach out to hr@teamreddog.com, and we will work to ensure an accessible experience. We strictly adhere to federal, state, and local laws to maintain a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.
We offer competitive compensation aligned with U.S. industry standards, and our final offer will reflect the candidate's location, job-specific skills, experience, and knowledge.

• All applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the need for sponsorship.
• Team Red Dog is an E-Verify employer.
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a reference and background check.
• Please no solicitations from C2C or recruiting firms.