Ubuntu Core Software Engineer

Canonical; Columbus (OH); Remote; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Canonical is seeking an Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to redefine the Linux experience in embedded environments. This remote role requires expertise in low-level OS, kernel, and device firmware, with responsibilities including coding, debugging, and collaborating with a global team. Join a pioneering company committed to open source and innovation.

Benefits

USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget

Annual compensation review

Wellness programs and support

Opportunities to travel and meet colleagues

Qualifications

• Experience with Linux-capable devices like Raspberry Pi.
• Understanding of bootloaders and Linux security features.
• Curious, flexible, and self-motivated.

Responsibilities

• Write high-quality code with unit tests for new features.
• Debug Linux system issues and produce fixes.
• Collaborate proactively with a distributed team.

Skills

C

Golang

Shell scripting

Linux

Low-level systems

Security features

Education

Bachelor's in Computer Science or equivalent

Tools

Debian

Ubuntu

Yocto

Job description

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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, as well as industry leaders across sectors. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times yearly in interesting locations worldwide to align on strategy and execution.

The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.

We are hiring an Ubuntu Core Software Engineer to redefine the Linux experience in embedded environments with the smallest, most secure, and updatable operating system in the IoT market. This role is ideal for a software engineer passionate about open source, Linux, security, and developer experience. It requires high technical skill with low-level OS, kernel, and device firmware.

Our mission is to enable building robust solutions in IoT, automotive, aviation, and more, using the next-gen secure embedded Linux OS. We aim to provide reliable device recovery mechanisms to simplify field operations for heterogeneous appliances.

As part of the Ubuntu Core team, you'll design and implement software on various CPU architectures like ARM, RISC-V, and X86, working on boot mechanisms, bootloaders, storage partitioning, device trees, kernels, and services.

Build a rewarding career working with top talent at Canonical, a growing international software company.

Location: This role is remote within the EMEA region

• Write high-quality code with unit tests for new features
• Debug Linux system issues and produce fixes
• Collaborate proactively with a distributed team
• Review code from other engineers
• Discuss ideas and find solutions collaboratively
• Integrate diverse bootloaders and maintain gadget snaps
• Work from home with global travel 2-4 times a year for events

What we are looking for in you

• You love technology and working with talented people
• You are curious, flexible, articulate, and accountable
• You value soft skills and are passionate, enterprising, thoughtful, and self-motivated
• You hold a Bachelor's or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or similar
• You have experience with C or Golang, and Shell scripting
• You understand Linux well; Debian or Ubuntu preferred
• You have experience with Linux-capable devices like Raspberry Pi
• You are interested in low-level systems and security facilities such as:
• Bootloaders (ARM/X86), e.g., piboot, uboot, grub-uefi
• Systemd, udev, initrd, graphics
• OS firmware daemons and CLI applications
• Linux security features: TPM, FDE, LUKS, HSM, etc.
• You may have experience or knowledge of Yocto

What we offer colleagues

• Distributed work environment with biannual in-person team sprints
• USD 2,000 annual learning and development budget
• Annual compensation review
• Recognition rewards
• Annual holiday leave
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Wellness programs and support
• Opportunities to travel and meet colleagues
• Travel upgrades for company events

About Canonical

Canonical pioneers open source, publishing Ubuntu, a key platform for AI, IoT, and cloud. We hire globally, set high standards, and expect excellence. Most colleagues work remotely. Working here challenges you to think differently, learn new skills, and excel.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We consider all applications fairly regardless of background or identity.