Remote Kernel Engineering Manager — Lead Ubuntu/Linux Kernel

Canonical Group Ltd; Hongkong; Hybrid; HKD 1,176,000 - 1,804,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Distributed team sprints and travel

USD 2,000 learning budget per year

Annual compensation review

Recognition rewards

Annual holiday leave

Maternity and paternity leave

Wellness program

Travel to meet colleagues

Priority Pass for events

Job summary

Canonical is seeking senior software engineers, tech leads, or team leads who are ready to transition into engineering management. You will oversee globally distributed Linux kernel engineers, guiding delivery, testing, and maintenance of Ubuntu kernels across cloud, server, desktop, and IoT platforms.

The role emphasizes technical leadership with no mandatory prior people management, plus strong English communication and international travel for company events.

Qualifications

• Solid technical foundation in systems software or OS concepts.
• Direct experience with the Linux kernel is highly regarded but not required.
• Experience mentoring engineers and driving complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Transition into people and project management.
• Lead and mentor a globally distributed team of kernel engineers.
• Manage delivery, testing, and maintenance of Ubuntu kernels across platforms (cloud, server, desktop, IoT).
• Drive engineering excellence, ensuring code quality, security, and performance standards.
• Develop and execute team strategies aligned with company goals and roadmaps.
• Collaborate with silicon vendors, cloud partners, and internal Canonical teams.
• Own the release cycles and update cadence for the team's kernel portfolios.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and open-source collaboration.

Skills

C programming

Linux kernel

Systems software

Mentoring

English communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/SE

Tools

Ubuntu packaging

CI/CD familiarity

Linux kernel contributions

Job description

Canonical is seeking senior software engineers, tech leads, or team leads who are ready to transition into engineering management. You will oversee globally distributed Linux kernel engineers, guiding delivery, testing, and maintenance of Ubuntu kernels across cloud, server, desktop, and IoT platforms.

The role emphasizes technical leadership with no mandatory prior people management, plus strong English communication and international travel for company events.