Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems, with a strong focus on the Ubuntu platform. We are hiring a Senior Build Systems Backend Engineer to join the Launchpad team. This role involves shaping the future of open-source collaboration by managing a platform that includes code hosting, bug tracking, package building, and more.
As a senior engineer passionate about Linux, web services, and scalable development platforms, you will have the opportunity to architect and refine a mature, Python-driven system that supports significant projects like Ubuntu. Your contributions will be crucial in maintaining business-critical services while driving innovation—whether that means enhancing package-building capabilities, improving developer workflows, or modernizing the web UI.
You will empower developers across the globe by ensuring Launchpad remains a high-velocity environment for open-source contribution. Working as part of Canonical's globally distributed team, you will collaborate with talented professionals in open-source technology, building infrastructure that enables the next generation of software development.
Work Conditions:
- This is a remote role based in the EMEA region. Candidates must be located within this region.
- The role involves international travel 2 to 4 times a year for collaboration on key internal discussions and industry-leading external events.
Key Responsibilities:
- Drive design, architecture, and feature decisions across distributed teams.
- Craft exceptional, API-first Python code with unit tests for robust, scalable systems.
- Diagnose and resolve complex technical challenges, implementing high-quality fixes.
- Mentor fellow engineers and lead code reviews to reinforce best practices.
- Engage in a distributed work environment while fostering global collaboration.
Qualifications:
- Proven technical excellence in Python development, delivering production-ready code.
- Expertise in maintaining large-scale web applications and database management (experience with PostgreSQL is a plus).
- Understanding of integration, infrastructure, and operations in distributed environments.
- Security-focused mindset for robust implementation stages in development.
- Familiarity with Ubuntu as a development platform.
- Grasp of software packaging systems, particularly Debian/Ubuntu packages.
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or a similar field.
Language Requirements:
- No specific language requirements were mentioned, but proficiency in English is expected in a global work setting.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Competitive compensation that considers geographical location, experience, and performance, reviewed annually.
- Performance-driven annual bonus or commission.
- Additional benefits include a personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year, annual holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave, wellness program, and travel opportunities to meet colleagues globally.
About Canonical:
Canonical is at the forefront of the global move to open source, publishing Ubuntu and creating significant open-source projects that support AI, IoT, and the cloud. The company values excellence and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace.
