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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.

Nwis

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

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 ...

Nightwing

Windows Kernel Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $253K/yr

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

$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 ...

Cylake, Inc

Windows System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Windows Kernel Engineering * Design and develop production-quality Windows kernel drivers using WDM ... WDF. * Build kernel instrumentation and telemetry pipelines for endpoint visibility. * Develop high ...

Cylake Inc.

Windows System Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

Windows Kernel Engineering * Design and develop production-quality Windows kernel drivers using WDM ... WDF. * Build kernel instrumentation and telemetry pipelines for endpoint visibility. * Develop high ...

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

As of Aug 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance Windows kernel developer?

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.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary:
Nightwing is a company that provides advanced cyber, data operations, and intelligence mission support services. They are seeking experienced Windows Kernel Developers to design, develop, test, and debug low-level Windows operating system software, ensuring high-performance and reliable solutions.
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
Qualifications:
Required:
• 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
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
Company:
Nightwing provides cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence services for government and commercial customers. Founded in 2024, the company is headquartered in Sterling, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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