Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel

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Overview

Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems. Our platform, Ubuntu, is widely used in enterprise initiatives across public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. We employ 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries with few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times per year in person to align on strategy and execution.

The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing. We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery, maintenance, and support of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The Linux kernel is broad, with challenges spanning integration of bleeding-edge hardware, expanding execution environments, and applying fixes and updates across all active Ubuntu kernels during Stable Release Update cycles.

This role can 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.

Location: Working from home, worldwide. We have kernel teams and 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.

The role entails

• Leading a distributed team of software engineers in delivering all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution in your geographic region
• Owning 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 hardware platforms
• Defining and enforcing stringent quality control standards for the Ubuntu user community
• Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel
• Driving process automation related to build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel
• Engagement with other Canonical teams, 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
• Experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts; Linux experience is highly regarded but not essential
• Experience managing or leading a team of software engineers
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams with different technical focuses
• Familiarity with version control practices, ideally git
• Experience 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, up to two weeks per trip

Nice-to-have skills

• Experience with kernel patching and debugging
• Strong understanding of device drivers, BSPs, and 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
• 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 publisher of Ubuntu, a key open-source project powering AI, IoT, and the cloud, we recruit on a global basis and maintain high standards for joining the company. Most colleagues have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here is a forward-looking experience that challenges you to think differently, work smarter, and learn new skills.

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

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Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

Software Engineering Manager positions in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom are frequently posted; consider applying to similar roles such as Sustaining Engineering, Solutions Engineering, and other Linux/Ubuntu-related manager positions.