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Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Unlock employer Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Posted: 10 Aug 2025

Financial

  • Estimate: $100k - $140k*
  • Zero income tax location

Accessibility

  • Fully Remote
  • Apply from abroad
  • Visa Provided

Requirements

  • Experience: Senior
  • English: Professional

Position

About the Job: 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 the delivery and ongoing support of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution.

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In this role, you will lead a distributed team of software engineers to tackle a variety of challenges, from integrating support for bleeding-edge hardware to ensuring quality control and security updates across multiple Linux kernels. You will help your team grow, facilitate technical delivery, and work strategically to drive the development of Ubuntu Linux.

Work Conditions:

  • Remote work environment with no pressure to work from an office.
  • Teams meet in person two to four times a year in various locations worldwide.
  • Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks.

Language Requirements:

  • Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills.

Responsibilities:

  • Leading a distributed team in delivering Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution.
  • Ownership of specific aspects of Ubuntu Linux, including collaboration with silicon or cloud partners, implementation of quality control standards, and mitigation of security threats.
  • Engagement with teams at Canonical, the open-source community, and commercial partners.

What We Are Looking For:

  • Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or similar languages.
  • Experience with operating system kernel internals (Linux preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
  • Familiarity with version control practices, ideally git.
  • Experience with software packaging formats, particularly Ubuntu/Debian/Snap.
  • Ability to coordinate between multiple teams with varying technical focuses.

Nice-to-Have Skills:

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

What We Offer:

  • Competitive compensation influenced by geographic location, experience, and performance.
  • Performance-driven annual bonus or commission.
  • Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
  • Annual compensation review and recognition rewards.
  • Distributed work environment with travel opportunities to meet colleagues.
  • Additional benefits reflecting our values, including holiday leave and wellness programs.

About Canonical: Canonical is at the forefront of the global shift to open source, providing the Ubuntu platform as a foundational tool for AI, IoT, and cloud initiatives. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, ensuring fair consideration for applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

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