Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager – Ubuntu Linux Kernel

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 breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. This role involves leading technical teams in the delivery and maintenance of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution.

Working from home, worldwide. We have kernel teams and openings in every time zone. No office in Taipei, Taiwan; no pressure to work from an office.

As an Engineering Manager at Canonical, your primary responsibility is to your team: helping them grow as engineers, do important and satisfying work, and have a great time. Technical leadership experience and a background in software engineering are necessary prerequisites. You will lead, challenge, and develop strong engineers, positively influence culture, facilitate technical delivery, and work with your team on strategy and execution.

• Lead a geographically distributed team of software engineers in the delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution.
• Take ownership of specific aspects of Ubuntu Linux, including:
• Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments.
• Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms.
• Defining and executing stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community.
• Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel.
• Building strong process automation for the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel.
• Engage with other teams at Canonical, the open source community, and commercial partners.

• Significant programming experience in C; experience with Python, Golang, or similar languages is highly regarded.
• Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts;
  Linux experience highly regarded.
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams to achieve common goals.
• Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with git.
• Prior experience developing with software packaging formats; 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 grasp 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.

• Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly team sprints in person.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and performance‑driven annual bonus or commission.
• 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 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 of software. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company.

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 creates a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.

Mid‑senior level

Full‑time

Engineering and Information Technology