Ubuntu Core Software Engineer

Canonical; Waterloo; Remote; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Canonical is seeking an Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to enhance the Linux experience in embedded environments for the IoT market. This role involves designing and implementing software across various CPU architectures while focusing on security and developer experience. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in low-level operating systems and a passion for open source technologies. Join a leading company in the open-source space and contribute to innovative solutions in IoT and beyond.

Benefits

USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget

Annual compensation review

Recognition rewards

Wellness programs and assistance

Travel opportunities to meet colleagues

Qualifications

• Experience with Linux-capable devices like Raspberry Pi.
• Solid understanding of Linux, preferably Debian or Ubuntu.
• Interest in low-level systems and security features.

Responsibilities

• Writing high-quality code with unit tests for new features.
• Debugging Linux system issues and fixing them.
• Proactively collaborating with a distributed team.

Skills

C

Golang

Shell scripting

Linux

Low-level systems

Security features

Education

Bachelor’s in Computer Science

STEM or similar

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 top public cloud and silicon providers, as well as industry leaders across sectors. We are a pioneer in global distributed collaboration, with over 1200 colleagues in 75+ countries and few office-based roles. Teams meet 2-4 times a year in interesting locations worldwide to align on strategy and execution.

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

We are hiring an Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to redefine the Linux experience in embedded environments with a small, secure, and updatable operating system for 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 operating systems, kernels, and device firmware.

Our mission is to enable building robust solutions in IoT, automotive, aviation, and other fields using the next-generation secure embedded Linux OS. We focus on device recovery mechanisms that simplify and standardize field operations for diverse appliances.

As part of the Ubuntu Core team, you'll design and implement software across various CPU architectures (ARM, RISC-V, X86), working on boot mechanisms, bootloaders, storage, device trees, kernels, and services.

Build a rewarding career with talented colleagues 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 for new features
2. Debugging Linux system issues and fixing them
3. Proactively collaborating with a distributed team
4. Reviewing code from other engineers
5. Discussing ideas and finding solutions
6. Integrating 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, entrepreneurial spirit, thoughtfulness, self-motivation
4. Bachelor’s or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or similar
5. Experience with C or Golang, 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 features such as bootloaders, systemd, security implementations (TPM, FDE, LUKS, HSM)
9. Knowledge of Yocto is a plus

What we offer

• Distributed work environment with biannual in-person team sprints
• USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget
• Annual compensation review
• Recognition rewards, holiday leave, parental leave
• Wellness programs and assistance
• Travel opportunities to meet colleagues
• Travel upgrades for company events

About Canonical

Canonical pioneers in open source, publishing Ubuntu, a key platform for AI, IoT, and cloud. We hire globally and expect excellence. Working here challenges you to think differently, learn new skills, and innovate. Since 2004, most colleagues work remotely. Join us to be part of the future of software.

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