About the Job:
Ubuntu Linux, the most popular Linux distribution in the world, is seeking to expand its adoption by increasing the number of System On Chip (SoC) platforms supported and optimizing for the highest performance. Canonical is looking to broaden its silicon enablement squads in response to strong demand from silicon manufacturers like NVIDIA, Xilinx, MediaTek, and Qualcomm.
The Canonical Kernel Team is responsible for the build, maintenance, and distribution of the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. They seek individuals with a strong software development background at the hardware level and a passion for optimizing performance. While direct experience with the Linux kernel is advantageous, candidates with experience in other RTOS or bare-metal environments, coupled with demonstrated hardware experience, are encouraged to apply.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with a globally distributed team and closely work with silicon vendor partners to integrate platform support into the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
- Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by partners, customers, and the community.
- Deliver distinct silicon-optimized variants of the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
- Improve tooling and automation for kernel delivery and testing.
- Submit, review, and apply kernel patches, collaborating with both internal and external maintainers.
- Identify new methods to maximize performance on partner silicon.
Requirements:
- Well-organized self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment.
- Professional demeanor with colleagues and partners.
- Effective communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
- Significant programming skills in C.
- Strong understanding of device drivers, BSPs, and hardware-level system engineering.
- Solid background with git.
- Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.
- Willingness to travel twice a year for up to two weeks.
Preferred Skills:
- Proficiency in Python and Bash scripting.
- Background with major SoC families.
- Experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
- Experience with Linux kernel patching and debugging.
- Understanding of performance optimization for silicon platforms.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Geographically adjusted compensation and performance-driven annual bonuses.
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
- Annual compensation reviews and recognition rewards.
- Home-based work environment with twice-yearly team sprints.
- Maternity and paternity leave, annual holiday leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme and travel opportunities.
About Canonical:
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm committed to the open-source movement and is renowned for publishing Ubuntu, a critical open-source project and platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud. As a remote-first company since 2004, Canonical offers a workplace free from discrimination, valuing diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds.
