Ubuntu Linux, the leading Linux distribution worldwide, aims to expand its adoption by increasing the number of System On Chip (SoC) platforms supported natively and optimizing the user experience. In response to strong demand from silicon manufacturers such as NVIDIA, Xilinx, MediaTek, and Qualcomm, Canonical is broadening its silicon enablement squads. The Canonical Kernel Team is seeking passionate individuals skilled in software development at the hardware level. The successful candidate will possess a solid aptitude for software engineering, particularly at the hardware level. While direct experience with the Linux kernel is advantageous, candidates with backgrounds in other real-time operating systems (RTOS) or bare-metal environments are also welcome, provided they can demonstrate direct hardware experience.
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Responsibilities:
- Collaborate proactively with a globally distributed team.
- Work closely with silicon vendor partners to integrate platform support into the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
- Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by partners and customers.
- Deliver distinct silicon-optimized variants of the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
- Improve tooling and automation for Ubuntu Linux kernel delivery and testing.
- Submit, review, and apply kernel patches, collaborating with internal and external maintainers.
- Identify new ways to maximize performance on partner silicon.
Requirements:
- Well-organized, motivated self-starter capable of thriving in a remote work environment.
- Professional demeanor in interactions with colleagues and the open-source community.
- Effective communication skills in English (written and verbal).
- Significant programming ability in C.
- Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and hardware-level system engineering.
- Solid background with Git.
- Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.
- Ability to travel twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks.
Additional Skills:
- Python and Bash scripting ability.
- Experience with major SoC families.
- Familiarity with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
- Experience in Linux kernel patching and debugging.
- Understanding of performance optimization for silicon platforms.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation, informed by geographical location and performance.
- Performance-driven annual bonus.
- Home-based work environment with twice-yearly team sprints.
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
- Annual compensation review and recognition rewards.
- Holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Opportunities to travel for team events.
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm driving the global shift to open source. As the publisher of Ubuntu, we are at the forefront of AI, IoT, and cloud technology, striving for excellence and fostering a diverse workforce. Recognized as a remote-first company since 2004, Canonical challenges its employees to innovate, learn new skills, and exceed expectations. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to a workplace free from discrimination.
