Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Join Canonical to lead technical teams in the delivery and ongoing support of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. This role requires a passion for Linux and the ability to guide engineers across diverse hardware, security, and automation challenges.
Location
Working from home, worldwide. Teams operate in all time zones; remote work is the primary mode.
Responsibilities
- Lead a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region, overseeing delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernels.
- Take ownership of specific areas such as:
- Implementing and optimizing kernels for silicon or cloud partners.
- Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of hardware platforms.
- Defining and enforcing quality control standards for the user community.
- Mitigating security threats and exploits in the kernel.
- Automating build, test, and delivery processes.
- Engage with other Canonical teams, the open‑source community, and commercial partners.
Qualifications
- Significant programming experience in C; experience with Python, Golang, or similar is highly regarded.
- Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals; Linux is highly regarded but not essential.
- Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
- Ability to coordinate between multiple technical teams to achieve common goals.
- Familiarity with version control practices, ideally Git.
- Experience with software packaging formats; direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience highly valued.
- Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills.
- Willingness to travel internationally up to two weeks, twice a year.
Nice‑to‑have skills
- Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
- Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and low‑level system engineering.
- Background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
- Public involvement with an open‑source project.
Benefits
- Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly in‑person sprints.
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
- Annual compensation review and performance‑driven bonus or commission.
- Recognition rewards and annual holiday leave.
- Maternity, paternity, and family leave.
- Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
- Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
- Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long‑haul company events.
About Canonical
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of open source. We publish Ubuntu, a widely used platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud. Our global workforce operates primarily from home, and we value excellence, innovation, and diversity.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Canonical is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background create a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.