Ubuntu Engineering Lead

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. Our customers include the world’s leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors. Canonical is a remote‑first company that values high standards, collaboration and open source innovation.

We are hiring an Ubuntu Engineering Lead to lead technical strategy, deliver high quality software, and grow high performing engineering teams. The role is remote and open in every time zone.

• Lead and coach engineering teams to deliver exceptional software for Ubuntu.
• Set technical roadmap, architecture, and engineering standards for the Ubuntu platform.
• Drive product vision and strategy in collaboration with product management.
• Own planning, estimation, and execution of complex system‑level projects.
• Optimize distribution for performance, reliability, and security.
• Contribute to upstream and neighboring open source projects.
• Debug complex system‑level issues and deliver robust solutions.
• Author and improve technical and community documentation.
• Provide coaching, mentoring, technical feedback, and career development for team members.
• Represent engineering teams in cross‑functional discussions with senior management.

• Undergraduate degree in Computer Science or STEM (or equivalent experience).
• Strong background in software engineering with experience in Rust, Go, Python, Flutter, or C/C++.
• Proven technical leadership experience and the ability to build and grow engineering teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Experience with open source software, Linux distributions, and package management.
• Ability to travel up to twice a year for company events (max two weeks each).
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• A strong passion for open source and a track record of contributing to open source communities.

• Role fully remote with twice‑yearly in‑person team sprints.
• Competitive salary with performance‑driven annual bonus.
• Annual compensation review and a personal learning budget of USD 2,000.
• Comprehensive benefits package including holiday leave, maternity & paternity leave, and employee assistance programme.
• Opportunities for global travel and exposure to diverse teams.
• Access to a vibrant open source community and the chance to shape the future of Ubuntu.

Canonical builds Ubuntu, the world’s most widely deployed open source operating system. With 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries, we drive innovation in AI, IoT, cloud, and enterprise computing. We are committed to a culture of excellence, collaboration, and open source leadership.

We are proud to foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspective, and background creates a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.