Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Canonical; Delhi (OH); Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm seeks a Lead Linux Kernel Engineer to drive the architecture and delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernel aspects. This role emphasizes collaboration with external partners and internal teams to enhance performance and reliability while ensuring Ubuntu remains a top choice in the Linux ecosystem. Ideal candidates will possess extensive experience in kernel development, strong leadership abilities, and a passion for open-source technology. Join a forward-thinking company that values diversity and promotes a remote work culture, providing opportunities for international travel and personal development.

Benefits

USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget

Generous leave policies

Parental leave

Wellness programs

Travel opportunities

Company perks

Qualifications

• 15+ years of industry experience in operating systems kernel development.
• Strong leadership and people skills to guide engineers.

Responsibilities

• Setting technical direction and leading a team of engineers for Ubuntu Linux.
• Collaborating with management to track and coordinate initiatives.

Skills

C Programming

Linux Kernel Development

Python

Bash Scripting

Git

Software Packaging

Job description

Join to apply for the Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu role at Canonical

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 top public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders across sectors. The company is pioneer in global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and few office-based roles. Teams meet a few times annually in interesting locations worldwide to align on strategy and execution.

The Canonical Kernel Team seeks talented experts with a proven track record in operating systems kernel development or low-level system engineering to lead architecture, implementation, and delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernel aspects, including:

• Engagements with Silicon and Cloud partners for platform solutions
• Mitigation of vulnerabilities and kernel hardening
• Enhancements for performance and reliability
• Streamlining packaging and distribution of third-party components
• Scaling Ubuntu Linux delivery to meet quality and schedule standards

This is not a formal managerial role, but strong leadership and people skills are essential to guide engineers and coordinate with external teams. Candidates should have deep technical expertise in operating system kernels and distributions, and demonstrate initiative and leadership.

While experience length is flexible, candidates should have the equivalent of 15+ years of industry experience.

Location: Home-based roles available in every timezone, with some aspects linked to specific regions.

Role responsibilities include:

• Setting technical direction and leading a team of engineers for Ubuntu Linux
• Collaborating with management to track and coordinate initiatives
• Working with senior technical leadership to ensure Ubuntu remains at the top of Linux distributions

Ideal candidate profile:

• Self-motivated, well-organized, able to thrive remotely
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Expertise in C programming
• Experience with *nix kernel and distributions, Linux preferred but not required
• Proficiency in Python and Bash scripting
• Strong understanding of git
• Experience with software packaging formats, Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience is a plus
• Willingness to travel internationally twice a year for up to two weeks

Nice-to-have skills:

• RTOS and real-time performance analysis background
• Kernel patching and debugging experience
• Knowledge of device drivers, BSPs, low-level system engineering
• Experience with Rust in the Linux kernel context

What we offer:

• Distributed work environment with biannual in-person sprints
• USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget
• Annual compensation review and recognition rewards
• Generous leave policies, parental leave, wellness programs
• Travel opportunities and company perks

About Canonical: Canonical is a pioneering open-source tech firm, publisher of Ubuntu, impacting AI, IoT, and cloud sectors. We hire globally, expect excellence, and promote a remote work culture since 2004. Join us to challenge yourself, learn, and innovate.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer: We value diversity and are committed to fair hiring practices regardless of background or identity.