Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Join to apply for the  Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel  role at  Canonical

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. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office‑based roles.

Teams meet two to four times yearly in person, in interesting locations around the world, to align on strategy and execution. The company is founder‑led, profitable, and growing.

Location:

Working from home, worldwide. We have kernel teams and openings in every time zone and with the notable exception of Taipei, Taiwan, have no offices and therefore no pressure to work from an office.

The role entails

Leading a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region in distinct aspects of delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution

Taking ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux which can include but are not limited to:

Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimised for their execution environments

Ensuring Ubuntu Linux is able to run on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms

Definition and execution of the stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community

Mitigation of the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel

Strong process automation as it pertains to the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel

Engagement with other teams at Canonical, the open source community and commercial partners

What we are looking for in you

Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other similar languages is also highly regarded

Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts;
Linux experience would be 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 being 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

Nice‑to‑have skills

Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging

Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low‑level system engineering

Solid background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives

Prior public involvement with an open source project

What we offer colleagues

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

About Canonical
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.

We expect excellence; in order to succeed, we need to be the best at what we do. Most colleagues at Canonical have worked from home since our inception in 2004. 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 create 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

Industries
Software Development

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