About the Job: Every year, we select new junior professionals into the Canonical kernel team to work on the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. If you have enjoyed operating systems in your coursework or current role, are confident in your ability to write high-quality C and possibly Rust, and are ready to see how it all works, this would be a great place to pursue your next career stage.
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The Canonical Kernel Team builds and maintains all supported Ubuntu Linux kernels for various platforms and architectures, ranging from small embedded devices to large-scale cloud environments. In your first year, you will tackle serious initiatives, which may include:
- Optimized solutions for key silicon and cloud partner platforms.
- Developer platforms such as Raspberry Pi and RISC-V.
- Enabling Ubuntu on a wide range of embedded systems.
- Security hardening and exploit mitigation.
- Third-party driver integration and distribution.
- Expanded driver support for cutting-edge PC platforms.
We are looking for candidates that are recent university graduates or early-career professionals enthusiastic about developing kernel-level software in various areas, including security updates, patching, and testing. The successful candidate will possess a background in software engineering, be motivated to work in a distributed team, and be willing to travel globally twice a year for company engineering events.
Work Conditions:
- This is a full-time position available to early career candidates (1-3 years industry experience), recently graduated university students, or university students with less than 3 months before graduation.
- The Kernel Team is currently not offering any part-time or internship roles.
- Home-based kernel teams accommodate every timezone.
Qualifications:
- 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.
- Willingness to travel twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks.
Additional Skills That You Might Bring:
- Interest and experience in Rust.
- Python and Bash scripting ability.
- Prior experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
- Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
- Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low-level system engineering.
What We Offer:
- Home-based work environment with twice-yearly team sprints in person.
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
- Annual compensation review and performance-driven bonuses.
- Recognition rewards, annual holiday leave, and employee assistance programs.
- Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open-source. As the publisher of Ubuntu, we are changing the world daily. We recruit globally and maintain high standards for our team members. Canonical has been remote-first since its inception in 2004, offering a working environment that encourages thinking differently and continuous learning. We are proud to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace and consider all applications fairly.
