Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
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 cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors. The company has 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries with many remote roles. Teams meet two to four times per year in person to align on strategy and execution.
The role leads technical teams delivering and maintaining all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. As the Linux kernel is broad, the role covers diverse technical domains, from integrating support for bleeding-edge hardware into latest Ubuntu kernels, to expanding execution environments, to applying fixes and updates across the >100 Ubuntu Linux kernels under active support during Stable Release Update cycles.
This role can suit an experienced manager of high-performing software development teams, or a proficient technical lead ready to take on management responsibilities. Passion for Linux and a drive to contribute to its distribution to millions of users worldwide is essential.
Location: Working from home, worldwide. We have kernel teams with openings in every time zone; with the notable exception of Taipei, Taiwan, we have no offices and therefore no requirement to work from an office.
Responsibilities
* Lead a distributed team of software engineers in the delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution
* Own and drive particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux, which may include:
o Collaborating with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments
o Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of hardware platforms
o Defining and enforcing stringent quality control standards for the Ubuntu user community
o Mitigating security threats and exploits in the Linux kernel
o Automating build, test, and delivery processes for the Linux kernel
* Engage with other Canonical teams, 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; Linux experience is highly regarded but not essential
* Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers
* Ability to coordinate between multiple teams with differing technical focus to achieve common goals
* Familiarity with version control practices, ideally Git
* Experience developing with software packaging formats; direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience is highly regarded
* Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills
* Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events lasting up to two weeks
Nice-to-have skills
* Experience with kernel patching and debugging
* Strong understanding of device drivers, BSPs, and low-level system engineering
* Experience 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 in-person team sprints
* 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
* Travel benefits 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, 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 work from home, and open collaboration is part of our culture.
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
Note: This job posting may be updated periodically to reflect changes in responsibilities or qualifications.
#J-18808-Ljbffr