Linux Kernel Technical Lead

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. We have 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times yearly in person to align on strategy and execution.

We are hiring technical leaders to lead teams in the delivery and ongoing support and maintenance of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The role involves coordinating between multiple distinct teams of differing technical focus to achieve common goals.

This role would suit an experienced manager of high-performing software development teams, or a proficient technical lead taking on management responsibilities. You should be passionate about Linux and aspire to contribute to its distribution to millions of users worldwide.

As a leader at Canonical, your primary responsibility is to your team: helping them grow as engineers, perform meaningful work, and have a great experience. Technical leadership and a background in software engineering are 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. We have kernel teams and openings in every time zone.

The role entails

• Leading a distributed team of software engineers in distinct aspects of delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution
• Taking ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux including but not limited to:
  • Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimized for their execution environments
  • Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms
  • Definition and execution of stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community
  • Mitigation of the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel
  • Strong process automation as it pertains to the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel
• Engagement with other teams at Canonical and the open source community

• Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other similar languages
• Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts; Linux experience is highly regarded but not essential
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams of differing technical focus 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

• Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging
• Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low-level system engineering
• Solid background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives
• Prior public involvement with an open source project

We provide a competitive compensation package based on location, experience, and performance. In addition to base pay, we offer a performance-driven annual bonus or commission. We also offer additional benefits reflecting our values and ideals.

• 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
• Travel upgrades for long-haul company events

We are a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of open source. As the company behind Ubuntu, we are at the forefront of the global move to open source, AI, IoT, and the cloud. We recruit on a global basis and set a high standard for people joining the company. Most colleagues have worked from home since our inception.

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.