Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement

Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer – Silicon Enablement

Ubuntu Linux is looking to expand native support for new System On Chip (SoC) platforms and optimize performance for silicon vendors such as NVIDIA, Xilinx, Media Tek, and Qualcomm. The Canonical Kernel Team needs engineers with a strong flair for hardware‑level software development and a passion for silicon performance.

• Collaborate with a globally distributed team and silicon vendor partners to integrate platform support into the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
• Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by partners, customers, the community, and through rigorous testing.
• Deliver distinct silicon‑optimised variants of the Ubuntu Linux kernel to the world.
• Improve tooling and automation for kernel delivery and testing.
• Submit, review, and apply kernel patches, working with internal and external upstream maintainers.
• Identify new ways to maximise performance on partner silicon.

• Self‑starter who can thrive in a remote work environment.
• Professional manner with colleagues, business partners, and the open‑source community.
• Strong communication skills in English, written and verbal.
• Significant programming ability in
  
  C.
• Solid background with git and understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.
• Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other aspects of hardware‑level system engineering.
• Ability to travel twice a year for company events up to two weeks in length.
• Additional skills (optional):
  Python and Bash scripting, prior background with major SoC families, Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging, Linux kernel patching and debugging, performance optimisation for silicon platforms.

• Home‑based work environment with twice‑yearly in‑person team sprints.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review.
• Recognition rewards.
• Annual holiday leave.
• Maternity and paternity leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• 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 publisher of Ubuntu, one of the most important open‑source projects, we are changing the world daily. Canonical has been a remote‑first company since 2004. Working here challenges 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.