Linux Kernel Engineer - Canonical

About the Role

Canonical is seeking exceptional software engineers to join our global Linux kernel team. This is a general track for all seniority levels, ranging from recent graduates to industry experts. You will work on both stable and cutting-edge kernels that underpin Ubuntu and its wider ecosystem, supporting hardware ranging from embedded devices to supercomputers.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate proactively with a globally distributed team.
• Work closely with silicon, cloud, and hardware manufacturers.
• Diagnose and resolve kernel-level issues.
• Take personal ownership of specific Ubuntu Linux kernel flavors.
• Improve tooling and automation for kernel delivery and testing.
• Submit, review, and apply kernel patches.

Core Projects

• Ubuntu Linux kernel planning, benchmarking, and stress testing.
• Optimizing kernels for key silicon and cloud partners.
• Confidential computing and next-generation security primitives.
• Developer platforms (Raspberry Pi, RISC-V) and embedded systems.
• Kernel Livepatch, FIPS compliance, and Real-Time/Low Latency variants.
• Virtualization, container technology, and security (AppArmor, SECCOMP).
• Networking and storage (Ceph, DRBD) performance.

Requirements

• Exceptional academic track record (high school and university).
• Undergraduate degree in Computer Science/STEM or equivalent experience.
• Significant programming experience in C.
• Solid background with git.
• Broad knowledge of Linux kernel subsystems, patching, and debugging.
• Understanding of upstream processes and release cycles.
• Strong grasp of device drivers and low-level system engineering.
• Professional written and spoken English.
• Ability to travel globally twice a year for company engineering events.

Preferred Skills

• Python and Bash scripting.
• Experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
• Performance engineering and security experience.

Benefits

• Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person sprints.
• Annual personal learning and development budget of $2,000 USD.
• Annual compensation reviews and performance-driven bonuses.
• Comprehensive leave policies (holiday, maternity, paternity).
• Employee Assistance Programme and travel upgrades for company events.