Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu
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.
The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles.
We are seeking exceptionally talented technology experts and industry veterans with a proven track record in operating systems kernel development or low level system engineering.
* 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
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.
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
* Python and Bash scripting ability
* 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, BSP's, and other low level system engineering
* Prior experience with Rust, ideally as it pertains to the Linux kernel
About Canonical:
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move 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.