About the Role
Canonical is seeking enthusiastic and motivated early-career professionals to join its globally distributed Kernel Team. This is a full-time position focused on developing and maintaining the Linux kernel used in Ubuntu across various platforms – from embedded systems to cloud environments.
If you’ve studied operating systems in your coursework or enjoy working close to the hardware, and are confident in writing high-quality C (and ideally Rust) code, this role offers a rare opportunity to work on one of the most widely used Linux distributions, Ubuntu.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with a distributed global engineering team
- Learn from experienced mentors about the inner workings of the Linux kernel
- Work with silicon, cloud, and hardware partners to support next-gen platforms
- Troubleshoot and resolve kernel issues reported by users or uncovered during testing
- Take ownership of kernel delivery for different Ubuntu variants
- Improve tooling and automation related to kernel building and testing
- Contribute kernel patches and interact with upstream maintainers and communities
Projects You May Work On
- Optimization for major silicon and cloud partner platforms
- Developer platforms such as Raspberry Pi and RISC-V
- Expanding Ubuntu support for embedded systems
- Kernel security, hardening, and exploit mitigation
- Graphics driver and third-party hardware support
- Driver expansion for cutting-edge PC hardware
Candidate Profile
Must-Have Qualifications
- Degree in Computer Science or related field (or final year of study)
- Strong programming skills in C; familiarity with Rust is an advantage
- Understanding of operating system fundamentals and low-level programming
- Familiarity with version control, preferably Git
- Effective communication skills in English (written and verbal)
- Self-motivated, organized, and able to work in a remote environment
- Willing to travel internationally 2–4 times per year for engineering events
Preferred Skills
- Interest or experience in Rust
- Scripting experience in Python and Bash
- Exposure to Ubuntu, Debian, or Snap packaging
- Familiarity with kernel patching and debugging tools
- Strong understanding of device drivers and low-level systems
Technical Skills Required: C, Rust, Python, Bash, git, Linux kernel, Ubuntu, Debian, Snap packaging, device drivers, low-level systems, operating systems, BSP, debugging, security patching, automation, testing
Benefits and Perks
- Remote-first company with flexible work hours
- Bi-annual international team sprints
- Annual compensation reviews and performance-driven bonuses
- USD 2,000 personal learning and development budget per year
- Comprehensive wellness and assistance programs
- Maternity and paternity leave
- Paid annual vacation
- Priority Pass and travel perks for global events
About Canonical
Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu, the most popular open-source OS for cloud, AI, IoT, and enterprise. Known for its leadership in distributed work, Canonical fosters innovation through a culture of excellence, high standards, and open collaboration. With over 1,200 employees in 75+ countries, Canonical offers a career pathway into cutting-edge global technology.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Canonical is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and strive for inclusion across gender, race, age, and backgrounds. All applications are reviewed fairly and equitably.
Application Deadline: Ongoing – Early applicants preferred
Location Requirement: Remote within Europe timezone preferred
