Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Join Canonical as a Software Engineering Manager leading teams that develop and maintain all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution. We are a globally distributed, profit‑generating company with over 1,200 employees in more than 75 countries, and we are looking for a passionate leader to help expand Ubuntu’s kernel support to emerging hardware and environments.

Location: Remote worldwide. All teams work from home; no office pressure except for Taipei, Taiwan.

• Lead a geographically distributed team of software engineers in delivering Ubuntu Linux kernels.
• Take ownership of key areas, including but not limited to:
• Partnering with silicon and cloud vendors to implement optimised kernels.
• Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs reliably across a wide range of hardware platforms.
• Defining and enforcing stringent quality control standards for the user community.
• Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel.
• Automating processes related to build, test, and delivery of the kernel.
• Collaborate with other Canonical teams, the open‑source community, and commercial partners.

• Significant programming experience in C, with additional experience in Python, Go, or similar languages highly regarded.
• Substantial knowledge of operating‑system kernel internals;
  Linux experience preferred but not mandatory.
• Demonstrated management or leadership experience with software engineering teams.
• Ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams to achieve shared goals.
• Familiarity with version control practices, ideally Git.
• Experience with software packaging formats; direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience is an advantage.
• 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 driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
• Prior public involvement with an open‑source project.

• Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly in‑person team sprints.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and performance‑driven bonus or commission.
• Recognition rewards and annual holiday leave.
• Paid maternity and paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
• Opportunities to travel to new locations and 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 publisher of 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. Our culture values excellence, and we expect our people to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise their game.

Canonical is an equal‑opportunity employer. We proudly foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds creates a better work 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
• Industry: Software Development