This role is a general track for applications to any team at Canonical that works with the Linux kernel, across all seniority levels. We are looking for exceptional software engineers who want to work on both stable and cutting-edge Linux kernels for Ubuntu and its wider ecosystem.
Canonical has a large and rapidly growing kernel team that underpins Ubuntu and open-source software across a diverse range of hardware and use cases. We collaborate with major kernel contributors, including silicon companies, to ensure that their work reaches a broad audience quickly, supported by a 10-year enterprise security commitment.
The Linux Kernel Organization at Canonical has teams in every time zone and offers opportunities for technical leadership, engineering management, and directorships. The team is responsible for all supported Ubuntu Linux kernels across various platforms and architectures—from small embedded devices to standard desktop/server systems, and large-scale cloud environments, mainframes, and supercomputers.
Key responsibilities include:
- Collaborating with a globally distributed team
- Working closely with silicon, cloud, or hardware manufacturers
- Diagnosing and resolving kernel issues
- Taking personal responsibility for a flavor of the Ubuntu Linux kernel
- Improving tooling and automation for delivery and testing of Ubuntu Linux kernels
- Submitting, reviewing, and applying kernel patches
Qualifications:
- Exceptional academic track record from high school and university
- Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or STEM, or relevant experience
- Drive and a track record of exceeding expectations
- Well-organized and self-starting, able to meet fixed schedules
- Professional interaction with colleagues, partners, and community
- Effective communication skills in English, both written and oral
- Significant programming experience in C
- Strong knowledge of the Linux kernel and subsystems
- Experience with kernel patching and debugging
- Strong understanding of device drivers and low-level system engineering
Additional Skills That You Might Also Bring:
- Knowledge of Python and Bash scripting
- Prior experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging
- Performance engineering and security experience
Travel Requirements:
Willingness to travel globally twice a year for company engineering events, lasting up to two weeks each.
What We Offer:
We provide a competitive compensation package that includes base pay, a performance-driven annual bonus, and additional benefits such as:
- Distributed work environment with team sprints
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
- Annual compensation review
- Recognition rewards
- Annual holiday leave
- Maternity and paternity leave
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Opportunity for travel to new locations
Language Requirements:
Proficient in written and spoken English.
About Canonical:
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source, publishing Ubuntu, a significant open-source project. Since 2004, we have operated as a remote-first company, emphasizing excellence and fostering a workplace free from discrimination. We welcome a diverse range of experiences and backgrounds.
