Containerization & Virtualisation Engineer - Canonical

About the Role

Canonical is seeking exceptional software engineers to join our global team focused on virtualization and container technology. This is a general selection process for engineers working across the stack—from the kernel through userspace—to build next-generation open source VMM and container infrastructure.

Projects You May Work On

• RustVMM: Developing a new hypervisor for Linux with a focus on performance, security, and operability.
• Rockcraft: Designing and implementing an elevated Docker image experience for the open source community.
• LXD: Working on our system container and virtual machine manager, spanning kernel namespaces, confinement, security, and REST APIs.
• Kubernetes: Contributing to MicroK8s, Charmed Kubernetes, and associated operations tooling.
• Cloud Infrastructure: Delivering Charmed OpenStack, OVN/OVS, and Ceph for large-scale environments.

What You Will Focus On

• Design and specify new features, building consensus on technical approaches.
• Engage with upstream open source communities.
• Conduct security analysis and reviews to ensure defense in depth.
• Create and monitor performance benchmarks to optimize products.
• Collaborate proactively within a distributed team.
• Write, debug, and review high-quality code.

What We Are Looking For

• Exceptional academic track record (Computer Science or STEM degree preferred).
• Proven track record of going above-and-beyond expectations.
• Experience with open source virtualization or container technology.
• Experience working in the kernel or low-level systems.
• Proficiency in Go, Rust, or C/C++.
• Professional written and spoken English.
• Experience with Linux (Debian or Ubuntu preferred).
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to travel twice a year for company events (up to two weeks each).

What We Offer

• Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and performance-driven annual bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits including holiday leave, maternity/paternity leave, and Employee Assistance Programme.
• Travel opportunities and priority pass for long-haul company events.