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Freelance Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Nwis

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Virtru

Windows Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

You will partner closely with Engineering Managers to provide dedicated architecture and design ... Lead system design and architecture reviews for Windows kernel and user-mode components * Create ...

Link, LLC

Windows Security Researcher

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Position Requirements: • Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers • Experience ... researchers and developers as part of a team We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to ...

Procom Services

211774 / C/C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR

$53.25 - $72/hr

Debug and development experience with Windows* kernel debuggers and/or Windows* application ... Windows* application software programming experience * Java experience * HTTPS protocol experience

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

As of May 31, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 31% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 17% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 72% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.

Windows Application Developer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days 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 Application Developers to support the design, development, testing, and maintenance of Windows-based software applications. The ideal candidates will possess strong expertise in low-level Windows systems development and demonstrate proficiency across multiple programming languages and development tools.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and debug Windows-based applications
  • Perform low-level systems development using Windows APIs
  • Develop and maintain software using C, C++, and Python
  • Utilize Visual Studio IDE and Windows SDK for application development
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex software and system issues
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project requirements
  • Ensure software solutions meet performance, security, and quality standards

Required Qualifications
  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance

Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
  • Three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software in each of the following languages:
    • C
    • C++
    • Python
  • Three (3) years of demonstrated, in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging software for Windows operating systems
  • Proven experience using:
    • Visual Studio IDE
    • Windows SDK
  • Demonstrated in-depth understanding of:
    • Windows low-level systems development
    • Windows APIs and system internals

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with multithreaded and performance-critical applications
  • Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling
  • Experience working in secure or regulated environments
  • Strong documentation and communication skills

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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