Canonical is a leading provider of open-source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is widely used in breakthrough enterprise initiatives across public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include major public cloud and silicon providers and industry leaders across various sectors.
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We are looking for junior professionals to join the Canonical Kernel Team, focusing on developing the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. If you have a passion for operating systems and are proficient in writing high-quality C and possibly Rust, this is an excellent opportunity to advance your career.
The Canonical Kernel Team builds and maintains all supported Ubuntu Linux kernels for various platforms and architectures, from small embedded devices to large-scale cloud environments. In your first year, you will work on key initiatives, including:
- Optimizing solutions for silicon and cloud partner platforms
- Developing for platforms like Raspberry Pi and RISC-V
- Enabling Ubuntu on a wide range of embedded systems
- Implementing security hardening and exploit mitigation
- Integrating third-party drivers and expanding support for bleeding-edge PC platforms
We seek candidates who are recent graduates or early-career professionals eager to develop kernel-level software, including security updates, patching, and testing. Successful candidates will need a background in software engineering, be motivated to work within a distributed team, and be willing to travel globally twice a year for company events.
Responsibilities:
- Collaborate regularly with a globally distributed team
- Learn from senior mentors about the Linux kernel and its distribution
- Work closely with external delivery teams on innovative platforms
- Diagnose and resolve kernel issues from customers and the community
- Take responsibility for the delivery and testing of various Ubuntu Linux kernel flavors
- Improve tooling and automation for kernel delivery and testing
- Submit, review, and apply kernel patches with internal and external maintainers
Requirements:
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal
- Programming experience in C and/or Rust
- Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with Git
- Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals
- Ability and willingness to travel for company events
Nice-to-Have Skills:
- Interest and experience in Rust
- Python and Bash scripting skills
- Experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging
- Background in kernel patching and debugging
- Solid grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and low-level system engineering
Benefits:
- Competitive compensation with performance-driven bonuses
- Annual compensation review and recognition rewards
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
- Distributed work environment with team sprints twice a year
- Additional benefits including maternity and paternity leave, Team Member Assistance Program, and wellness platform
- Opportunities for travel and career development
About Canonical:
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global open-source movement. As the publisher of Ubuntu, we are at the vanguard of innovation in software for AI, IoT, and cloud. We strive for excellence and foster a diverse and inclusive workplace. All applications are given fair consideration, and we are committed to building a better work environment through diverse experiences and perspectives.
