Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Join to apply for the Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel 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 breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world’s leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors. The company pioneers global distributed collaboration with 1,200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office‑based roles.
The company is founder‑led, profitable, and growing. We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery and ongoing support of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. As the Linux kernel is broad, so are the technical domains, ranging from integrating support for bleeding‑edge hardware to expanding execution environments and applying the latest fixes and updates to all over 100 Ubuntu Linux kernels.
This role fits either an experienced manager of high‑performing software development teams or a very proficient technical lead ready for management responsibility. You will be passionate about Linux and aspire to be integral to its distribution to millions of users worldwide.
As an Engineering Manager at Canonical, your primary responsibility is to your team: helping them grow as engineers, doing important and satisfying work, and having a great time while doing it. Technical leadership experience and a background in software engineering are necessary prerequisites. You will lead, challenge, and develop strong engineers, positively influence culture, facilitate technical delivery, and work with your team on strategy and execution.
Location: Working from home, worldwide. The kernel teams have openings in every time zone; except Taipei, Taiwan, there are no offices.
The role entails
* Leading a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region in distinct aspects of delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution
* Taking ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux, which can include but are not limited to:
o Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments
o Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms
o Defining and executing stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community
o Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel
o Implementing strong process automation for build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel
* Engagement with other teams at Canonical, the open source community, and commercial partners
What we are looking for in you
* Significant programming experience in C; experience with Python, Golang, or similar languages is highly regarded
* Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts; Linux is highly regarded but not essential
* Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers
* Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams to achieve common goals
* Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with git
* Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience being highly regarded
* Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills
* Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events up to two weeks long
Nice‑to‑have skills
* Experience with kernel patching and debugging
* Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low level system engineering
* Background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives
* Prior public involvement with an open source project
What we offer colleagues
* Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly team sprints in person
* Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
* Annual compensation review
* Recognition rewards
* Annual holiday leave
* Maternity and paternity leave
* Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform
* Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues
* Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long‑haul company events
About Canonical
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source. As the company that publishes Ubuntu—one of the most important open‑source projects and the platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud—we are changing the world of software. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company. Most colleagues have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here is a step into the future and will challenge you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game.
Canonical is an equal opportunity employer
We are proud to foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background create a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
Industries
Software Development
#J-18808-Ljbffr