System Software Engineer - Ubuntu Networking

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, and industry leaders across sectors. The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.

We are hiring a System Software Engineer for Ubuntu Networking.

Our investment in Ubuntu enables us to hire outstanding systems software engineers to enhance connectivity across various environments, from cloud to desktop to IoT. We aim to improve tooling, services, documentation, robustness, security, and clarity of Linux network abstractions to ensure fast, reliable, and secure connections.

The network stack is critical for OS stability, reliability, and uptime, impacting Ubuntu's success across all platforms. We are expanding our Foundations team to focus on this area, seeking individuals passionate about lower-level OS network technologies. Candidates should be comfortable discussing bridges, bonds, routing, DNS, and related technologies, and will work with upstream components and communities including kernel, network managers, Bluetooth stacks, VPNs, and more. We utilize Netplan to model Ubuntu connectivity and aim to make it the most effective tool for enabling connectivity everywhere.

The Ubuntu Foundations Team maintains the core of the Ubuntu system, building on Debian's technical foundation to deliver the latest, most reliable free software components in an easy-to-use package.

As a Linux System Engineer, you will maintain and integrate core network stack components, collaborate on design with team members and upstream projects, mentor less experienced engineers, and participate in code and design reviews. You will work with other teams to enhance Ubuntu's architecture, performance, and user experience.

Location: This role is remote within the AMERICAS region.

The role entails:

1. Collaborating proactively with a distributed team
2. Designing software-defined networking products for evolving data center architectures
3. Writing high-quality, well-documented software
4. Debugging issues and producing high-quality fixes
5. Contributing to technical documentation
6. Providing technical leadership and influencing open-source communities
7. Shaping innovative product strategies
8. Working from home with global travel 2-4 weeks per year for events

We seek candidates with:

1. Deep passion and understanding of Linux networking from kernel to user space
2. Experience with computer networks, virtual networks, distributed systems, and hardware offloading
3. Interest in tools like systemd-networkd, NetworkManager, iwd, conman, bluez, iproute2, Open vSwitch, WireGuard, etc.
4. Fluency in Golang, C/C++, Rust, or Python
5. Experience with Linux (Debian or Ubuntu preferred)
6. Interest in packaging software for Debian and Ubuntu
7. Strong academic background in a technical field or a compelling alternative narrative
8. A passion for technology, working with talented people, and soft skills such as curiosity, flexibility, and accountability
9. Willingness to travel internationally twice a year for up to two weeks

We offer:

1. A distributed work environment with biannual in-person team sprints
2. USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget
3. Annual compensation reviews and recognition rewards
4. Generous leave policies including maternity and paternity leave
5. Wellness programs and support services
6. Opportunities for travel and meeting colleagues globally

About Canonical:

Canonical pioneers open source, publishing Ubuntu, a key platform for AI, IoT, and cloud. We hire globally, uphold high standards, and expect excellence. Most colleagues work remotely, embracing the future of work and continuous learning.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, and values all backgrounds and perspectives.