Ubuntu Linux, already the most popular Linux distribution in the world, is currently in the midst of an unprecedented surge in demand. To meet this need the Canonical Kernel Team - those responsible for the build, maintenance, and distribution of the Linux kernel for Ubuntu - are looking for individuals with not only an incredibly deep technical background in operating system kernels and distributions, but also a strong flair for leadership and taking initiative to drive ideas and the associated delivery teams to completion.

The Canonical Kernel Team is seeking exceptionally talented technology experts and industry veterans with a proven track record to take the lead in the architecture, implementation, and ongoing delivery of the following (but not limited to) aspects of kernel engineering:

Driving engagements for key Silicon and Cloud partners to provide optimal solutions for their platforms
Leading the mitigation of common vulnerabilities and exposures for Ubuntu Linux as well as driving active hardening in the kernel
Architecting enhancements to performance and correctness to make Ubuntu Linux the most reliable and highest performing Linux kernel available today
Streamlining the packaging and distribution of particularly troublesome third-party components for optimal experience by end users
Developing new means to deliver Ubuntu Linux at scale to the strict quality standards and delivery schedules expected by end users

While not a formal managerial role, the successful candidate will possess strong people skills and natural ability to lead engineers within the team, as well as working with other external teams to coordinate adoption and delivery.

While we hesitate to put a specific number of years of experience as a requirement for an applicant as that does not take into account relative ability or circumstances, for a comparative guideline we would be seeking candidates with the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15+ years of industry experience.

Location: We have home-based lead kernel roles in every timezone, although the individual aspects as listed above may be linked to a specific geographic region.

What your day will look like

Set the technical direction and lead the delivery of a team of junior and mid-career engineers for a key aspect of Ubuntu Linux
Work closely with management within and outside the team to track and coordinate initiatives to delivery
Collaborate daily with other senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team on how best to ensure Ubuntu stays at the pinnacle of Linux distributions

What we are looking for in you

Well-organised and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment
Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal
Expert understanding of the C programming language
Demonstrated expertise working in a *nix-based operating system kernel and distribution. While direct Linux experience would be ideal, it is not mandatory.
Python and Bash scripting ability
Powerful grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system
Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events of up to two weeks length

Additional skills that you might also bring

Strong background in RTOS and real-time performance analysis
Prior experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging
Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging
Strong grasp of device drivers, BSP’s, and other low level system engineering

What we offer you

We consider geographical location, experience, and performance in shaping compensation worldwide. We revisit compensation annually to ensure we recognise outstanding performance. In addition to base pay, we offer a performance-driven annual bonus. We provide all team members with additional benefits, which reflect our values and ideals. We balance our programs to meet local needs and ensure fairness globally.

Home-based work environment with twice-yearly team sprints in person
Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
Annual compensation review
Recognition rewards
Annual holiday leave
Maternity and paternity leave
Employee Assistance Programme
Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues
Priority Pass, and travel upgrades for long haul company events

About Canonical

Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source. As the company that publishes Ubuntu, one of the most important open source projects and the platform for AI, IoT and the cloud, we are changing the world on a daily basis. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company. We expect excellence - in order to succeed, we need to be the best at what we do. Canonical has been a remote-first company since its inception in 2004. Working here is a step into the future, and will challenge you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer

We are proud to foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background create a better work environment and better products.

Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.

#LI-remote

Apply for this Job

* Required

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone

Resume/CV *

Dropbox Google Drive

(File types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf)

Cover Letter

Dropbox Google Drive

(File types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf)

When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review

+ Add another education

During this application process I agree to use only my own words. I understand that plagiarism, the use of AI or other generated content will disqualify my application. *

How did you perform in mathematics at high school? *

How did you perform in your native language at high school? *

Please share your rationale or evidence for the high school performance selections above. Make reference to provincial, state or nation-wide scoring systems, rankings, or recognition awards, or to competitive or selective college entrance results such as SAT or ACT scores, JAMB, matriculation results, IB results etc. We recognise every system is different but we will ask you to justify your selections above. *

What was your bachelor's university degree result, or expected result if you have not yet graduated? Please include the grading system to help us understand your result e.g. ‘85 out of 100’, ‘2:1 (Grading system: first class, 2:1, 2:2, third class)’ or ‘GPA score of 3.8/4.0 (predicted)’. We have hired outstanding individuals who did not attend or complete university. If this describes you, please continue with your application and enter ‘no degree’. *

Universities around the world score degrees in different ways. Please indicate your result, or expected result if you are close to graduation, along with information about the grading system.

Are you comfortable using your own computer running Ubuntu? *

Please summarise any experience you have in HW level programming. What platform(s)? To what extent?

Please summarise any experience you have working in operating system kernels. Which kernel(s)? To what extent?

If you have made direct contributions to Linux kernel mainline or other open source projects, please provide links here.

We expect all colleagues to meet in person 2-4 times a year, at internal company events lasting between 1-2 weeks. We try to pick new and interesting locations that will likely require international travel and entry requirement visas and vaccinations. Are you willing and able to commit to this? *

Please note that if you require any accommodation for travel that relates to a physical disability please do let us know during your hiring process and we will be happy to discuss your requirements further.

Website

LinkedIn Profile

Please confirm that you have read and agree to Canonical's Recruitment Privacy Notice and Privacy Policy. *

Recruitment Privacy Notice

In which country do you currently work? *

Please select your current location from the dropdown.

Enter the verification code sent to to confirm you are not a robot, then submit your application.

Security Code *

This application was flagged as potential bot traffic. To resubmit your application, turn off any VPNs, clear the browser's cache and cookies, or try another browser. If you still can't submit it, contact our support team through the help center.

Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu