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 breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world’s leading public cloud, silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1,200+ colleagues in 75+ countries, very few office-based roles, and teams meeting two to four times yearly in person in interesting locations worldwide to align on strategy and execution.

We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery and ongoing support of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The Linux kernel scope is broad, covering integration of bleeding-edge hardware support, expansion of execution environments, and application of the latest fixes during our Stable Release Update cycles across more than 100 Ubuntu Linux kernels.

This role suits an experienced manager of high-performing software development teams or a proficient technical lead eager to take on management responsibilities. Passion for Linux and a desire to be integral to 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 have a great time while doing it. 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.

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 pressure to work from an office.

• 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 which can include but are not limited to:
  • Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimised for their execution environments
  • Ensuring Ubuntu Linux can run 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
  • Strong process automation as it pertains to the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel
• Engaging with other teams at Canonical, the open source community, and commercial partners

• Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other similar languages also highly regarded
• Substantial experience with operating system kernel internals and concepts; Linux experience is highly regarded but not essential
• Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers
• Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams of differing technical focus 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

• Demonstrated 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

• 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 shift 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. We expect excellence; to succeed, we need to be the best at what we do. Most colleagues at Canonical have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here is a step into the future that will challenge you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game.

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.

Mid-Senior level

Full-time

Engineering and Information Technology

Software Development

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