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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

Nwis

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

ThreatLocker

Senior Kernel Software Developer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$51 - $67.25/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a Windows Kernel Driver Engineer with extensive experience in filter driver development and Windows system internals to join our cybersecurity product team. In this ...

REDLattice

CNO Developer (Windows Kernel)

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries (both legitimate and malicious) to ...

REDLattice

CNO Developer (Windows Kernel)

Dulles, VA · On-site

Design, develop, and maintain low-level kernel-mode components, drivers, and subsystems for Windows platforms. * Perform reverse engineering of Windows binaries (both legitimate and malicious) to ...

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How much do freelance windows kernel developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance windows kernel developer in the United States is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Windows Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

A Freelance Windows Kernel Developer must possess deep knowledge of C/C++ programming, operating system internals, and Windows kernel architecture, often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with tools like WinDbg, Visual Studio, and experience with kernel debugging, driver development, and Windows Driver Kit (WDK) are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective independent communication set standout freelancers apart. These capabilities ensure the developer can deliver secure, high-performance kernel modules and troubleshoot complex system-level issues for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance Windows Kernel Developers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance Windows Kernel Developers often encounter challenges such as obtaining sufficient access to client environments for debugging, ensuring confidentiality when handling sensitive code, and aligning with the client’s internal development workflows. Effective communication is crucial, as kernel development frequently involves troubleshooting low-level issues that may require detailed logs or real-time collaboration with other developers. Setting clear expectations around deliverables, timelines, and security protocols helps address these challenges and fosters a productive remote working relationship.

What is a Freelance Windows Kernel Developer?

A Freelance Windows Kernel Developer is an independent software engineer who specializes in developing, debugging, and maintaining software that operates at the Windows operating system kernel level. These professionals design drivers, system utilities, or security modules that require deep integration with Windows internals. Working as freelancers, they typically handle short-term contracts or projects for various clients, providing expertise in areas like kernel-mode driver development, kernel debugging, and performance optimization. Their work is crucial for hardware compatibility, system stability, and advanced software functionalities.
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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 64% Full Time, and 27% Temporary. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.

Windows Kernel Developer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to support the design, development, testing, and debugging of low-level Windows operating system software. The ideal candidates will bring strong expertise in kernel-level development, Windows internals, and advanced debugging techniques to deliver high-performance, reliable solutions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and debug kernel-level software for the Windows operating system
  • Develop low-level system components and interfaces using Windows APIs
  • Perform kernel-level diagnostics, troubleshooting, and performance analysis
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate and validate system components
  • Ensure software reliability, security, and maintainability through rigorous testing and debugging practices
Required Qualifications
  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software using C, C++, and Python
  • Minimum of three (3) years of in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging Windows-based software using Visual Studio IDE and the Windows SDK
  • Demonstrated in-depth understanding of Windows low-level systems development and Windows APIs
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience developing and testing Windows kernel-level software
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience performing Windows kernel-level debugging and diagnostics using tools such as Windows DDK, WinDBG, or equivalent
Desired Skills (Preferred)
  • Strong understanding of operating system architecture and device drivers
  • Experience with system performance optimization and root-cause analysis
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, technically complex environment

Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.
At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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