Remote opportunity at
CanonicalLead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, is hiring a Lead Linux Kernel Engineer to join its globally distributed team. Canonical provides open-source software and…
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About This Role
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, is hiring a Lead Linux Kernel Engineer to join its globally distributed team. Canonical provides open-source software and operating systems utilized across cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data science, and the internet of things. Operating as a founder-led and profitable organization, the enterprise relies on remote collaboration with personnel located across dozens of countries. This position suits an experienced technology veteran with a…
Job Description
Canonical, the publisher of the Ubuntu operating system, is hiring a Lead Linux Kernel Engineer to join its globally distributed team. Canonical provides open-source software and operating systems utilized across cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data science, and the internet of things. Operating as a founder-led and profitable organization, the enterprise relies on remote collaboration with personnel located across dozens of countries.
This position suits an experienced technology veteran with a deep background in operating system kernels and low-level system engineering. While not a formal managerial post, the person in this role will guide junior and mid-career engineers, shape technical strategy, and lead the delivery of key Ubuntu Linux kernel components. Key focuses include collaborating with cloud and silicon partners, improving kernel performance and reliability, addressing vulnerabilities, and streamlining third-party software packaging.
Employees operate in a home-based environment while coordinating with colleagues across the world. The company organizes international gatherings twice a year where team members travel to meet in person. Canonical evaluates compensation annually based on geographical region, experience, and performance, and provides various global benefits including professional development funds and leave programs.
Responsibilities
- Manage technical direction and lead delivery for a team of junior and mid-career engineers focusing on specific aspects of Ubuntu Linux
- Partner with internal and external management to track and coordinate initiatives
- Collaborate daily with senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team to maintain the platform's position as a leading Linux distribution
- Drive engagements with key silicon and cloud partners to deliver optimal solutions for their platforms
- Lead vulnerability mitigation efforts and champion active hardening within the kernel
- Architect correctness and performance enhancements to make Ubuntu Linux reliable and high-performing
- Refine the packaging and distribution of complex third-party components for end users
- Create new methods to distribute Ubuntu Linux at scale while meeting strict quality standards and delivery schedules
Requirements
- Demonstrated technical equivalent of 15 or more years of industry experience
- Well-organized and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Expert understanding of the C programming language
- Demonstrated expertise working in a unix-based operating system kernel and distribution
- Proficiency in Python and Bash scripting
- Powerful grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system
- Prior experience developing with software packaging formats
- Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks
Qualifications
- Direct Linux kernel and distribution experience
- Direct Ubuntu, Debian, or Snap packaging experience
- Strong background in real-time operating systems and real-time performance analysis
- Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging
- Strong grasp of device drivers, board support packages, and other low-level system engineering
- Prior experience with Rust, ideally in relation to the Linux kernel
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 this position remote?
Yes, this is a home-based role, and Canonical operates as a globally distributed company with very few office-based positions.
What level of experience is required for this role?
Canonical seeks candidates with the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15 or more years of industry experience, alongside deep expertise in operating system kernels or low-level systems engineering.
What is the compensation structure?
Compensation is shaped by geographical location, experience, and performance, and is reviewed annually. In addition to base pay, the company offers a performance-driven annual bonus or commission.
Are there travel requirements for this job?
Yes, employees must be able to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events that can last up to two weeks.
Sample Interview Questions
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