Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems, particularly known for Ubuntu, which is widely used for various enterprise initiatives including public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. The company promotes a distributed work culture with 1200+ colleagues across 75+ countries, meeting periodically in diverse locations for strategic alignment.

Canonical's Linux Kernel Organization is responsible for all supported Ubuntu Linux kernels across a wide range of platforms. The team focuses on hardware and virtualization enablement, security, reliability, and performance. Team members collaborate on various projects ranging from kernel execution and benchmarking to real-time kernel variants and confidential computing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with a globally distributed team.
• Work with external silicon and cloud partners on cutting-edge platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by customers and the community.
• Take responsibility for delivering specific Ubuntu Linux kernel variants.
• Improve tooling and automation for kernel testing and delivery.
• Submit, review, and apply kernel patches.

Requirements:

• Significant programming experience in C, with knowledge of Python, Golang, or similar languages preferred.
• Substantial understanding of operating system kernel internals, especially Linux.
• Solid background with git and software packaging formats (preferably Ubuntu/Debian/Snap).
• Strong professional written and spoken English, along with excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to travel globally for company events twice a year.

Nice-to-Have Skills:

• Experience with device drivers and low-level system engineering.
• Performance engineering and security experience.
• Background in CI/CD and process automation.
• Previous public involvement in an open source project.

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.
• Wellness and assistance programs.
• Opportunities to travel and meet colleagues.

Canonical is committed to diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We promote a work environment free from discrimination and encourage applications from individuals of varied backgrounds and identities.