Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets, particularly through our platform, Ubuntu. Our customers include top public cloud and silicon providers and industry leaders across various sectors. As a pioneer in global distributed collaboration, our team includes over 1,200 colleagues in more than 75 countries, with minimal office-based roles. Teams reconvene two to four times a year in unique locations worldwide for strategy meetings.
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This position falls within a general track for Senior+ (Senior/Staff/Principal) Engineers, where candidates will initially be evaluated through interviews to determine the best team fit. A Senior+ Engineer not only excels as a software architect and coder but also possesses leadership qualities necessary for guiding teams and delivering exceptional products. Responsibilities include high-quality coding, technical leadership, and documentation while partnering with other engineering leaders to drive impactful results.
In this role, you'll be responsible for the architecture and design of significant open-source projects, collaborating globally, and mentoring colleagues. This involves working on complex projects across the software stack, from kernel systems to cloud automation and distributed systems.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead design and architecture of impactful open-source projects.
- Code in languages such as Golang, Rust, Python, C/C++, or Typescript/React.
- Collaborate with a globally distributed team.
- Mentor and develop colleagues.
- Provide technical leadership within Canonical and the open-source community.
- Write high-quality code and contribute to technical documentation.
Work Conditions:
- Remote work with the opportunity for global travel twice a year for company events.
Language Requirements:
- Excellent communication skills, including professional written and spoken English.
What We Are Looking For:
- Exceptional academic track record (high school and university).
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related STEM qualification, or a compelling narrative for alternative paths.
- Proven technical leadership and team motivation skills.
- Deep experience in at least one of Go, Rust, Python, or C.
- Strong attention to detail and focus on performance.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, curiosity, flexibility, and accountability.
- Ability to travel for company events (up to two weeks, twice a year).
Nice-to-Have Skills:
- Experience with container technologies (LXD, Docker, Kubernetes).
- Knowledge of distributed systems and performance engineering.
- Familiarity with software security practices.
- Experience with public clouds or OpenStack.
- Expertise in Debian/Ubuntu packaging and scalable web services.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation with annual reviews.
- Performance-driven bonuses and a personal learning and development budget.
- Additional benefits reflecting our values, including paid holiday leave and team wellness programs.
- Opportunities for travel and recognition rewards.
About Canonical:
Canonical is at the forefront of the global shift to open source technology. As the publisher of Ubuntu, we contribute significantly to AI, IoT, and cloud development. We are a remote-first company, fostering a workplace free from discrimination and valuing diversity in experience, perspectives, and backgrounds. We strive for excellence and invite those who share our vision to apply.
