Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Apply for the Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel role at Canonical
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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 public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world’s leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors.

The company is founder‑led, profitable, and growing, with 1,200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office‑based roles. Teams meet 2–4 times a year in person around the world to align on strategy and execution.

We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in delivering and maintaining all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The Linux kernel covers a broad range of technical domains, from integrating support for bleeding‑edge hardware to expanding execution environments, to applying fixes and updates to over 100 Ubuntu Linux kernels during Stable Release Update cycles.

• Lead a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region, focusing on distinct aspects of delivery of all Ubuntu Linux kernels.
• Take ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux, such as:
• Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments.
• Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of hardware platforms.
• Defining and executing stringent quality‑control standards for the Ubuntu user community.
• Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel.
• Automating processes related to building, testing, and delivering the Linux kernel.
• Engaging with other Canonical teams, the open‑source community, and commercial partners.

• Significant programming experience in C; experience in Python, Golang, or similar languages is highly regarded.
• Substantial experience with operating‑system kernel internals and concepts (Linux experience is highly regarded but not required).
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams with differing technical focus to achieve common goals.
• Familiarity with version control practices, ideally Git.
• Prior experience with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience highly regarded.
• Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events up to two weeks long.

• Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
• Strong understanding of device drivers, BSPs, and low‑level system engineering.
• Background in CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
• Public involvement with an open‑source project.

Working from home, worldwide. Kernel teams have openings in every time zone; no office presence in Taipei, Taiwan.

• Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly team sprints in person.
• Personal learning and development budget of $2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review.
• Recognition rewards.
• Annual holiday leave.
• Maternity and paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
• Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
• Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long‑haul company events.

Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the open‑source movement. As the publisher of Ubuntu, Canonical is driving the world of software for AI, IoT, and the cloud. We recruit globally and set a high standard for excellence.

Canonical is an equal‑opportunity employer. We foster a workplace free from discrimination and consider applicants from all backgrounds with fair consideration.