Software Architect - Containers / Virtualisation

Canonical is a leading provider of open-source software and operating systems, best known for our platform, Ubuntu. We are seeking a Software Architect for Canonical LXD and MicroCloud. The primary aim is to simplify the creation of compute clusters using system containers or virtual machines, ensuring that setting up a small cloud is seamless, whether using one, two, or twenty servers. This role involves working with distributed systems, virtualization, container technology, networking, and storage. You will drive the architecture, design, and evolution of LXD, which is a modern Golang system container and virtual machine orchestrator, used widely across various Linux platforms. Additionally, you will work on Canonical MicroCloud, which integrates LXD with Ceph and OVN to create a lean, user-friendly cluster-scale cloud infrastructure.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the architecture of LXD and MicroCloud
• Mentor and develop colleagues in their career progression
• Write code in Golang and C
• Review code produced by other engineers
• Ensure product security and performance
• Display technical leadership within the company and the community
• Work from home with global travel twice annually for company events

Requirements:

• Exceptional academic record in Computer Science or a STEM field
• Experience in Golang and C
• Knowledge of modern cloud infrastructure and their APIs
• Experience with storage, networking, virtualization, and container technologies
• Familiarity with concurrent, distributed systems
• Professional written and spoken English
• Experience with Linux (Debian or Ubuntu preferred)

Work Conditions:

• Home-based position available in EMEA and the Americas
• Twice-yearly team sprints in person

What We Offer:

• Competitive compensation with annual reviews
• Performance-driven bonuses
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
• Annual holiday leave
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Opportunities for travel to meet colleagues

Canonical is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities.