About the Job:
Ubuntu Linux is one of the most widely used Linux distributions in the world today, and one of the top contributing factors to its popularity is its wide availability and ease of installation. The company, the publisher of Ubuntu Linux, is seeking a senior software engineer to lead an initiative to simplify and automate the configuration and build of the Ubuntu Linux kernel, making it easier to distribute to clients tailored to their specific system needs.
We are looking for an industry veteran with broad experience across the software stack to guide this effort. Candidates will be expected to manage the implementation from concept through delivery, requiring strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and strict adherence to project schedules. While previous Linux kernel internals development experience is not required, a deep understanding of the build system is essential. Strong skills in advanced git usage and kernel patching will also be critical for this role.
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Responsibilities:
- Lead the design and implementation of an advanced automated Linux build control system.
- Collaborate closely with other engineering teams for seamless deployment into the company ecosystem.
- Investigate and optimize solutions for issues related to kbuild, kconfig, and make.
- Propose innovative solutions to kernel build challenges and drive acceptance to upstream.
Qualifications:
- Significant programming ability in Python, with strong C skills also highly regarded.
- Demonstrated experience in patching and configuration of the Linux kernel; a strong working knowledge of kconfig and git is required.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and oral.
- Solid background with popular open-source projects for creating custom Linux-based distributions such as Yocto or Buildroot.
- Strong grasp of git.
Nice-to-Have Skills:
- Javascript or Golang programming ability.
- Experience in writing CLI tools, including interactions with REST APIs.
- Solid background in CI/CD and process automation.
- Prior experience developing with software packaging formats; direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience is highly regarded.
Language Requirements:
- Proficiency in English (both written and oral).
Benefits:
- Geographically considered compensation, with annual reviews.
- Performance-driven annual bonus or commission.
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
- Annual holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave.
- Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
- Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
- Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long-haul company events.
The company is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source and promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace.
