Junior Kernel Engineer

Canonical; United States; Remote; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Junior Kernel Engineer, where you'll play a vital role in developing and maintaining the Ubuntu Linux kernel. This full-time position is perfect for recent graduates eager to dive into kernel-level software development. Collaborate with a global team, tackle exciting challenges, and contribute to major initiatives that enhance the performance of Ubuntu across various platforms. Enjoy the flexibility of remote work while also participating in in-person team sprints. If you're passionate about open-source technology and eager to grow in a supportive environment, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Parental Leave

Professional Development Budget

Remote Work

Travel Opportunities

Recognition and Rewards

Qualifications

• Strong programming skills in C and some experience with Rust.
• Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to optimizing solutions for silicon and cloud partners.
• Troubleshoot and resolve kernel issues reported by customers.

Skills

C

Rust

Operating Systems

Git

Communication Skills

Self-motivation

Teamwork

Willingness to Travel

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Python

Bash

Job description

Canonical is a leading technology company driving the adoption of open source software globally. They are the creators of Ubuntu, a widely used operating system that serves as the foundation for AI, IoT, and cloud computing.

Canonical is a remote-first company, with a global workforce and a strong commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. They strive for excellence in all aspects of their work, prioritizing the creation of high-quality products and services.

Job Description: Junior Kernel Engineer

This is a full-time opportunity for recent graduates or early career professionals (1-3 years of experience) who are passionate about kernel-level software development. The Canonical Kernel Team works on maintaining and improving the Ubuntu Linux kernel across various platforms and architectures, from embedded devices to cloud environments.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Contribute to major initiatives: You’ll be involved in projects like optimizing solutions for silicon and cloud partners, enabling Ubuntu on embedded systems, security hardening, and driver integration.
2. Collaborate with a global team: You’ll work closely with senior mentors, external hardware manufacturers, and the open-source community.
3. Troubleshoot and resolve kernel issues: You’ll analyze and fix problems reported by customers, the community, and your own rigorous testing.
4. Develop and maintain the Ubuntu Linux kernel: You’ll be responsible for delivering various kernel flavors, improving tooling and automation, and submitting and reviewing kernel patches.

Required Skills and Experience:

1. Strong programming skills: You should be proficient in C and have some experience with Rust.
2. Understanding of operating systems: You have a strong understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.
3. Version control expertise: Familiarity with Git is essential.
4. Excellent communication skills: You are able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
5. Self-motivation and organization: You are a self-starter who thrives in a remote work environment.
6. Teamwork and collaboration: You are able to work effectively with colleagues, partners, and the open-source community.
7. Willingness to travel: You are able to travel twice a year for company events (up to two weeks).

Desired Skills:

• Experience with Ubuntu, Debian, or Snap packaging
• Kernel patching and debugging experience
• Knowledge of device drivers, BSPs, and low-level systems engineering
• Proficiency in Python and Bash scripting

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary, determined by location, experience, and performance, with annual reviews and bonuses.
• Comprehensive global benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and parental leave.
• Professional development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Remote work with twice-yearly in-person team sprints.
• Travel opportunities for company events and meetings.
• Recognition and rewards for outstanding contributions.
• Being part of a global, collaborative community working on mission-critical projects.