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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer information

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$9

$22

$68

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

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance windows kernel developer in Phoenix, AZ is $22.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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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What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Freelance Windows Kernel Developer jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Freelance Windows Kernel Developer job openings:
Freelance Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Windows Kernel Developer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,434 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784 -OJO

Right Talent Right Now

Phoenix, AZ

$171K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description

System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development - 2784




Job Ref.: 2784


Job Title: System Level Software Engineer - Driver Development


Role: Information Technology


Relocation Available: Yes


Industry: I.T.




Location: South Carolina


Town / City: Greer


Job Type: Permanent full-time




Job description:


Company develops custom system level software, including device drivers, firmware, embedded applications, protocol stacks, board support packages, and custom interfaces. They specialize in wireless communications for military and embedded systems.




They are seeking a talented Software Development professional who specializes in system-level development (device drivers, firmware, embedded systems) to serve as a key member of the engineering team. This individual will be responsible for developing and supporting user mode applications, device drivers, and firmware for a wide variety of systems, including networking and communication hardware and software products. These responsibilities include the design and development of protocols and algorithms for a variety of technologies, including USB, PCI, 802. WLAN, Ethernet, VoIP, Bluetooth, cellular, and broadband communications. This individual must be able to communicate effectively with clients and be attentive to customer satisfaction.


Windows Kernel and/or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.


6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.


6-8+ years of application development experience


Excellent written and verbal communications skills


Strong debugging skills


Superior problem solving abilities 


Ability to work independently or as part of a team


Required Education: Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science. 




Desired Skills (not required)


WinDBG


embedded Linux


Experience with multiple Linux distributions (Montavista, Ubuntu, OpenEmbedded, Red Hat, Buildroot, etc.) 


Embedded Linux development for a variety of platforms (ARM, MIPS, x86, PowerPC, etc.) and board support packages.


Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems).


Experience with real time and multithreaded applications


Experience performing architectural definition, documentation, and development at the system level


Reverse Engineering (IDA Pro, Ollydbg, etc.) 


Communication protocol experience (designing, implementing)


Experience writing software that interfaces with hardware (one or more of the following: device drivers, firmware, embedded systems)


Clearance Required: Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen in order to meet the minimum requirement to obtain the required clearance.




Bottom Line Requirements:


1. Bachelors or Masters in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related.


2. Windows Kernel or Driver Programming experience (XP, Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8) or current Linux Kernel Driver programming experience.


3. 6-8+ years C, C+ programming experience.


4. 6-8+ years of application development experience.


5. US Citizen able to obtain clearance.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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