Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager – Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Canonical, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

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. We foster a workplace free from discrimination and encourage diversity of experience and perspective.

Location: Working from home, worldwide. Our kernel teams operate across all time zones and usually do not require office presence.

• Leading a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region in distinct aspects of delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu distribution.
• Taking ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux which can include but not be limited to:
• Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments.
• Ensuring Ubuntu Linux can run 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.
• Driving process automation for the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel.
• Engaging with other teams at Canonical, the open‑source community, and commercial partners.

• Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other similar languages.
• Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts;
  Linux knowledge is highly regarded but not essential.
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams of differing technical focus to achieve common goals.
• Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with Git.
• Prior experience developing 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 grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low‑level system engineering.
• Background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
• 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.
• 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 that publishes Ubuntu, one of the most important open‑source projects. We recruit globally and maintain an exceptionally high standard for new hires, fostering innovation and forward‑thinking across the industry.

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

• Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
• Industries: Software Development