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Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Unlock employer Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Posted: 11 Aug 2025

Financial

  • Estimate: $120k - $160k*
  • Zero income tax location

Accessibility

  • Fully Remote
  • Apply from abroad
  • Visa Provided

Requirements

  • Experience: Senior
  • English: Professional

Position

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 enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in delivering and maintaining all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The role involves integrating support for cutting-edge hardware, expanding execution environments, and applying the latest fixes and updates to over 100 Ubuntu Linux kernels during Stable Release Update cycles. As an Engineering Manager at Canonical, your primary responsibility is to lead and develop your team, ensuring they grow as engineers and enjoy their work. You will need to be passionate about Linux and have a strong background in software engineering and technical leadership.

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Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead a distributed team of software engineers in delivering all Linux kernels for Ubuntu.
  • Take ownership of specific aspects of Ubuntu Linux, including collaboration with silicon and cloud partners.
  • Ensure Ubuntu runs on a wide range of hardware platforms.
  • Define and execute stringent quality control standards.
  • Mitigate security threats to the Linux kernel.
  • Engage with other teams, the open-source community, and commercial partners.

Language Requirements:
Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills.

Work Conditions:

  • Distributed work environment with no requirement to work from an office.
  • Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events, lasting up to two weeks.

What We Are Looking For:

  • Significant programming experience in C; familiarity with Python, Golang, or similar languages is a plus.
  • Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals (Linux preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience managing or leading a software engineering team.
  • Ability to coordinate between distinct teams to achieve common goals.
  • Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with git.
  • Professional experience with software packaging formats, particularly Ubuntu/Debian/Snap.

Nice-to-Have Skills:

  • Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
  • Solid understanding of device drivers and low-level system engineering.
  • Background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
  • Prior involvement with an open-source project.

What We Offer:

  • Compensation shaped by geographical location, experience, and performance.
  • Performance-driven annual bonus or commission.
  • Distributed work environment with team sprints twice a year.
  • Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
  • Annual compensation review and recognition rewards.
  • Annual holiday leave and maternity/paternity leave.
  • Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
  • Opportunity to travel globally for company events.
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