Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Canonical; Sacramento (CA); Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a Lead Linux Kernel Engineer to enhance Ubuntu's kernel. This role involves leading architecture and implementation efforts while collaborating with top-tier partners in cloud and silicon. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and deep technical expertise in operating systems, particularly Linux. Enjoy a distributed work environment with opportunities for travel and professional growth, alongside a competitive compensation package that includes a generous learning budget and performance bonuses.

Benefits

USD 2,000 annual learning budget

Annual compensation review

Performance bonuses

Comprehensive benefits

Travel opportunities

Company events

Qualifications

• Deep technical expertise in operating system kernels and distributions.
• Experience with *nix kernels and distributions, Linux preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead architecture, implementation, and delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernel enhancements.
• Drive engagements with Silicon and Cloud partners for platform solutions.

Skills

C programming

Linux kernel development

Python

Bash scripting

git

Software packaging formats

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 major public cloud and silicon providers, as well as industry leaders across sectors. The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.

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 enhancements.

Key Responsibilities

1. Driving engagements with Silicon and Cloud partners for platform solutions
2. Leading mitigation of vulnerabilities and kernel hardening
3. Architecting performance and correctness improvements
4. Streamlining packaging and distribution of third-party components
5. Developing scalable delivery methods for Ubuntu Linux

This is not a formal managerial role, but strong leadership and coordination skills are essential. Candidates should have deep technical expertise in operating system kernels and distributions, and demonstrate initiative and leadership.

Candidate Profile

• Organized, motivated self-starter in a remote environment
• Excellent English communication skills
• Expertise in C programming
• Experience with *nix kernels and distributions; Linux experience preferred
• Proficiency in Python and Bash scripting
• Strong knowledge of git
• Experience with software packaging formats; Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience is a plus
• Ability 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 systems
• Experience with Rust in Linux kernel context

What We Offer

• Distributed work environment with biannual in-person sprints
• USD 2,000 annual learning budget
• Annual compensation review and performance bonuses
• Comprehensive benefits including leave, parental leave, wellness programs
• Travel opportunities and company events

About Canonical

Canonical pioneers open source innovation, with Ubuntu as a key platform for AI, IoT, and cloud. We hire globally, value excellence, and support remote work since 2004. Join us to challenge yourself and grow.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusion, providing fair consideration regardless of background or identity.