Ubuntu Core Software Engineer

Canonical; Ottawa; Remote; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Canonical is seeking an Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to redefine the Linux experience in embedded environments. This role involves developing secure and updatable OS solutions for IoT, requiring strong skills in Linux systems, coding, and collaboration within a globally distributed team.

Benefits

USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget

Distributed work environment with biannual in-person sprints

Wellness programs and assistance

Opportunities for travel and events

Qualifications

• Experience with Linux-capable devices like Raspberry Pi.
• Solid understanding of Linux, preferably Debian or Ubuntu.
• Interest in security facilities such as TPM, FDE, LUKS.

Responsibilities

• Writing high-quality code with unit tests to develop new features.
• Debugging Linux system issues and producing fixes.
• Collaborating proactively with a distributed team.

Skills

C

Golang

Shell scripting

Linux

Low-level systems

Education

Bachelor’s in Computer Science or equivalent

Tools

Yocto

Job description

Join to apply for the Ubuntu Core Software Engineer 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 enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include leading public cloud and silicon providers, as well as industry leaders across sectors. We operate with a globally distributed team of over 1200 colleagues in more than 75 countries, with few office-based roles. Teams meet 2-4 times a year in interesting locations worldwide for strategy and alignment.

The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.

We are hiring a Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to redefine the Linux experience in embedded environments with the smallest, most secure, and updatable OS in the IoT market. This role is ideal for a software engineer passionate about open source, Linux, security, and developer experience. It requires high technical skill in low-level OS, kernel, and device firmware development.

Our mission is to enable building robust solutions across fields like IoT, automotive, and aviation using a next-generation secure embedded Linux OS. We focus on reliable device recovery mechanisms to help manufacturers standardize field operations for diverse appliances.

As part of the Ubuntu Core team, you'll design and implement software across various CPU architectures, including ARM, RISC-V, and x86, working on boot mechanisms, bootloaders, storage, device trees, kernels, and services.

Build a rewarding career with talented peers at Canonical, a growing international software company.

Location

This role is remote within the EMEA region.

The role entails

1. Writing high-quality code with unit tests to develop new features
2. Debugging Linux system issues and producing fixes
3. Collaborating proactively with a distributed team
4. Reviewing code from other engineers
5. Discussing ideas and collaborating on solutions
6. Integrating diverse bootloaders and maintaining gadget snaps
7. Working from home with global travel 2-4 times a year for events

What we are looking for in you

1. A passion for technology and working with talented people
2. Curiosity, flexibility, articulation, and accountability
3. Soft skills, passion, enterprise mindset, thoughtfulness, and self-motivation
4. Bachelor’s or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or similar
5. Experience with C, Golang, and Shell scripting
6. Solid understanding of Linux, preferably Debian or Ubuntu
7. Experience with Linux-capable devices like Raspberry Pi
8. Interest or experience in low-level systems and security facilities such as bootloaders, systemd, Linux security (TPM, FDE, LUKS, HSM), etc.
9. Knowledge of Yocto is a plus

What we offer colleagues

We offer a globally competitive package considering location, experience, and performance, including annual reviews and bonuses. Benefits include:

• Distributed work environment with biannual in-person sprints
• USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget
• Recognition rewards, annual leave, parental leave
• Wellness programs and assistance
• Opportunities for travel and events

About Canonical

Canonical pioneers open source, publishing Ubuntu—key for AI, IoT, and cloud platforms. We hire globally, uphold high standards, and foster a diverse, inclusive workplace. Most colleagues work remotely since 2004. Working here is future-focused, challenging, and rewarding.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and fairness in hiring.

Additional details

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Engineering and IT
• Industries: Healthcare, Non-profit, Government

Referrals can double your interview chances. Set job alerts for similar roles.