Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Software Engineering Manager – Ubuntu Linux Kernel

Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems. We build and maintain Ubuntu, one of the world’s most widely used Linux distributions. Our teams work in a global, distributed environment and collaborate on breakthrough initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation and IoT.

As a Software Engineering Manager, you will lead technical teams that deliver and support the Ubuntu Linux kernel. You will influence strategy, drive delivery, and help engineering teams grow. The role is suitable for an experienced manager of high‑performing software development teams or a highly proficient technical lead who is ready to take on management responsibility.

• Lead a distributed team of software engineers across geographic regions and oversee delivery of the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
• Own specific aspects of Ubuntu Linux, such as:
• Implement kernel optimisations for silicon or cloud partners and enable execution environments.
• Ensure Ubuntu Linux runs on a diverse range of hardware platforms.
• Define and execute stringent quality control standards for the Ubuntu user community.
• Mitigate security threats and exploits in the Linux kernel.
• Automate build, test and delivery processes for kernel delivery.
• Engage with other Canonical teams, the open source community and commercial partners.

• Significant programming experience in C, and proficiency with Python or Go is highly regarded.
• Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts;
  Linux experience is highly regarded.
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
• Ability to coordinate between multiple 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.

• Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
• Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs and other low‑level system engineering.
• Background driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
• Public involvement with an open source project.

• Distributed work environment; twice‑yearly team sprints in person.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review.
• Recognition rewards and 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 at the forefront of the global move to open source. We publish Ubuntu, one of the most important open‑source projects and the platform for AI, IoT and the cloud. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company. Canonical is an equal‑opportunity employer.