Remote opportunity at
CanonicalEngineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, seeks an Engineering Manager to lead globally distributed teams maintaining the Linux kernel. This remote position offers experienced…
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About This Role
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, seeks an Engineering Manager to lead globally distributed teams maintaining the Linux kernel. This remote position offers experienced technical leaders an entry point into formal management without requiring prior direct people management experience. The successful candidate will oversee kernel creation, testing, and optimization across cloud, server, desktop, and IoT environments, while collaborating with major silicon and cloud partners. Operating globally with a…
Job Description
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, seeks an Engineering Manager to lead globally distributed teams maintaining the Linux kernel. This remote position offers experienced technical leaders an entry point into formal management without requiring prior direct people management experience. The successful candidate will oversee kernel creation, testing, and optimization across cloud, server, desktop, and IoT environments, while collaborating with major silicon and cloud partners.
Operating globally with a distributed workforce, the profitable and growing firm coordinates software development for AI, data science, and cloud initiatives. The role involves guiding a team of Linux kernel engineers, aligning product roadmaps, and setting release cycles. Professionals with a strong technical background in operating systems or systems software who wish to transition into full-time leadership will find an opportunity to shape core open-source technology.
Responsibilities
- Transition from individual contribution into full-time people and project management
- Lead and mentor a globally distributed team of Linux kernel engineers
- Manage the delivery, testing, and maintenance of Ubuntu kernels across cloud, server, desktop, and IoT platforms
- Drive engineering standards for code quality, security, and performance
- Develop and execute team strategies aligned with company goals and product roadmaps
- Collaborate with silicon vendors, cloud partners, and internal groups to enable new hardware and features
- Own release cycles and update cadences for assigned kernel portfolios
- Foster a culture of continuous learning, open-source collaboration, and accountability
Requirements
- Proven experience as a senior software engineer, tech lead, or similar role with a desire to transition into management
- Solid technical background in systems software, C programming, or operating systems concepts
- Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers, guide technical projects, or drive architectural decisions
- Leadership potential and a commitment to skills development and mentorship
- Confidence to exchange feedback and share ideas
- Professional written and spoken English with strong presentation skills
- Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks
Qualifications
- Direct experience with the Linux or other operating system kernels
- Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, specifically Ubuntu, Debian, or Snap
- Experience acting as a scrum master, project lead, or informal mentor for remote teams
- Direct contributions to or participation in the Linux kernel community
- Familiarity with continuous integration and automated testing frameworks for systems software
Core Skills
Benefits
- Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints
- Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
- Annual compensation reviews
- Performance-driven annual bonus or commission
- Recognition rewards
- Annual holiday leave
- Maternity and paternity leave
- Team Member Assistance Program and Wellness Platform
- Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long-haul company events
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers are based only on the employer’s listing; where it doesn’t say, neither do we.
Is prior management experience required for this role?
No, prior direct people management experience is not required. The position is designed for senior software engineers, tech leads, or team leads looking to transition into full-time engineering management.
Where is the position located?
The role is fully remote with worldwide work from home options. The company operates globally without central offices in most regions, excluding Taipei, Taiwan.
What travel is expected for this position?
The role requires international travel twice a year for company events that can last up to two weeks long.
What is the salary for this position?
The posting does not specify a salary amount, noting that compensation takes geographical location, experience, and performance into account.
Sample Interview Questions
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