Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
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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 public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world's leading public cloud and silicon providers, as well as industry leaders in many sectors. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1,200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office‑based roles. Teams meet two to four times yearly in person in interesting locations around the world to align on strategy and execution.
We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery and ongoing support and maintenance of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The Linux kernel is broad, covering diverse technical domains and challenges, ranging from integrating bleeding‑edge hardware into the latest Ubuntu kernels, to expanding execution environments, to applying the latest fixes and updates to all >100 Ubuntu Linux kernels under active support during the Stable Release Update cycles.
This role suits an experienced manager of high‑performing software development teams or a very proficient technical lead who is excited to take on management responsibility. Passion for Linux and an aspiration to be integral in its distribution to millions of users worldwide are essential.
As an Engineering Manager at Canonical, your primary responsibility is to your team: helping them grow as engineers, do important and satisfying work, and enjoy the experience. 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. We have kernel teams and openings in every time zone and, with the notable exception of Taipei, Taiwan, have 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, including but not limited to:

Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimised for their execution environments
Ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms
Defining and executing the stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community
Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel
Automating processes related to the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel


Engaging with other teams at Canonical, the open source community, and commercial partners

What we are looking for in you

Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or similar languages highly regarded
Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts; Linux experience 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 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
Solid 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

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 at Canonical have worked from home since its inception in 2004.
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.
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