Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement

Canonical; Regina; Remote; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative technology company is seeking individuals passionate about hardware-level software development for their expanding silicon enablement teams. This role involves collaborating with global partners to optimize Ubuntu Linux for various SoC platforms. Ideal candidates will have strong C programming skills and a solid understanding of OS kernel fundamentals. The position offers flexibility with remote work and opportunities for professional growth through a generous learning budget. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to performance optimization and excellence in open-source technology.

Benefits

Home-based work with team sprints

USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget

Recognition rewards

Holiday leave

Maternity/paternity leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Travel opportunities for company events

Qualifications

• Strong programming skills in C and knowledge of device drivers.
• Experience with git and understanding of OS kernel fundamentals.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with a globally distributed team to integrate platform support.
• Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by partners and customers.

Skills

C Programming

Device Drivers

BSPs

Hardware-level System Engineering

Professional Communication Skills

Git

OS Kernel Fundamentals

Tools

Python

Bash Scripting

Job description

Ubuntu Linux, already the most popular Linux distribution in the world, aims to expand its support for System On Chip (SoC) platforms and optimize performance for users. There is significant demand from silicon manufacturers such as NVIDIA, Xilinx, MediaTek, and Qualcomm to provide Ubuntu Linux to their customers. Canonical seeks to expand its silicon enablement teams to meet this demand.

The Canonical Kernel Team, responsible for building, maintaining, and distributing the Linux kernel for Ubuntu, is looking for individuals with a strong aptitude for hardware-level software development and a passion for performance optimization. Experience with the Linux kernel is advantageous but not mandatory; candidates with backgrounds in RTOS or bare-metal environments are also encouraged to apply if they can demonstrate relevant hardware experience.

This role offers remote work opportunities worldwide, suitable for candidates from early career to senior industry veterans.

What your day will look like

1. Collaborate with a globally distributed team.
2. Work with silicon vendor partners to integrate their platform support into the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
3. Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by partners, customers, and the community.
4. Deliver silicon-optimized Ubuntu Linux kernel variants.
5. Improve tooling and automation for kernel delivery and testing.
6. Submit, review, and apply kernel patches with upstream maintainers.
7. Identify new performance optimization methods for partner silicon platforms.

What we are looking for in you

1. Self-motivated, well-organized, and able to thrive remotely.
2. Professional communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
3. Strong programming skills in C.
4. Knowledge of device drivers, BSPs, and hardware-level system engineering.
5. Experience with git.
6. Understanding of OS kernel fundamentals.
7. Ability to travel twice a year for up to two weeks.

Additional skills that you might also bring

1. Python and Bash scripting.
2. Experience with major SoC families.
3. Knowledge of Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
4. Experience with Linux kernel patching and debugging.
5. Understanding of silicon performance optimization.

What we offer you

We offer competitive compensation based on location, experience, and performance, with annual reviews and bonuses. Benefits include:

• Home-based work with biannual in-person team sprints.
• USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget.
• Recognition rewards, holiday leave, maternity/paternity leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Travel opportunities and upgrades for company events.

About Canonical

Canonical is a leading open-source technology company, publisher of Ubuntu, and a pioneer in AI, IoT, and cloud platforms. Since 2004, we have embraced a remote-first culture, emphasizing excellence and innovation in our global team.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer

We value diversity and are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. All applications will be considered fairly regardless of background or identity.