Lead Kernel Engineer

About

Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is very 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 is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ 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.

The company is founder‑led, profitable, and growing.

The Canonical Kernel Team is seeking exceptionally talented technology experts and industry veterans with a proven track record in operating systems kernel development or low‑level system engineering to take the lead in the architecture, implementation, and ongoing delivery of the following (but not limited to) aspects of the Ubuntu Linux kernel:

• Driving engagements for key Silicon and Cloud partners to provide optimal solutions for their platforms
• Leading the mitigation of common vulnerabilities and exposures for Ubuntu Linux as well as driving active hardening in the kernel
• Architecting enhancements to performance and correctness to make Ubuntu Linux the most reliable and highest performing Linux kernel available today
• Streamlining the packaging and distribution of particularly troublesome third‑party components for optimal experience by end users
• Developing new means to deliver Ubuntu Linux at scale to the strict quality standards and delivery schedules expected by end users

While not a formal managerial role, the successful candidate will possess strong people skills and natural ability to lead engineers within the team, as well as working with other external teams to coordinate adoption and delivery.

We are looking for individuals with not only an incredibly deep technical background in operating system kernels and distributions, but also a strong flair for leadership and taking initiative to drive ideas and the associated delivery teams to completion.

For a comparative guideline we would be seeking candidates with the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15+ years of industry experience.

Location
We have home‑based lead kernel engineer roles in every timezone, although the individual aspects as listed above may be linked to a specific geographic region.

Responsibilities

• Set the technical direction and lead the delivery of a team of junior and mid‑career engineers for a key aspect of Ubuntu Linux
• Work closely with management within and outside the team to track and coordinate initiatives to delivery
• Collaborate daily with other senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team on how best to ensure Ubuntu stays at the pinnacle of Linux distributions

Requirements

• Well‑organised and motivated self‑starter able to thrive in a remote work environment
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal
• Expert understanding of the C programming language
• Demonstrated expertise working in a *nix‑based operating system kernel and distribution (direct Linux experience ideal but not required)
• Python and Bash scripting ability
• Powerful grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system
• Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience being highly regarded
• Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events of up to two weeks length

Nice‑to‑have Skills

• Strong background in RTOS and real‑time performance analysis
• Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging
• Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low‑level system engineering
• Prior experience with Rust, ideally as it pertains to the Linux kernel

Benefits

• 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