About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software innovation. Since 2004, we've pioneered remote-first work culture while delivering enterprise-grade solutions that power the world's infrastructure. Ubuntu, our flagship Linux distribution, is the most widely used open source operating system in the cloud, trusted by giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Our mission is to make open source software universally available, secure, and reliable, enabling real-world adoption of technologies like Kubernetes, OpenStack, and cloud-native applications.

With a fully distributed team spanning every continent, Canonical fosters a collaborative, high-performance environment where engineers solve complex customer challenges. We're not just a software company; we're architects of the future cloud infrastructure.

Role Overview

The Cloud Field Engineer at Canonical is a dynamic role blending architecture, hands-on engineering, and customer consulting. You'll help global enterprises embrace private cloud infrastructure, Linux operations, and open source applications. As a Linux and cloud solutions architect, you'll design tailored private and public cloud solutions using Ubuntu, OpenStack, Kubernetes, and more. Expect diverse responsibilities: deploying and testing solutions, developing Python-based Kubernetes operators, and handing over projects to support teams.

This position is perfect for developers who thrive on solving real customer problems through architecture, presentations, and training. Work remotely from home worldwide, with up to 25% global travel for events and sprints. Join a team that's been remote-first since 2004.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Architecture & Deployment

Architect comprehensive cloud solutions fitting customer workloads, including OpenStack, Kubernetes, Ceph, Hadoop, and Spark—deployed on-premises or in public clouds like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Work across the entire Linux stack, from kernel and networking to storage and applications.

Software Development

Use intermediate to advanced Python skills to design and deliver open source code, including Kubernetes operators and infrastructure-as-code for Linux environments.

Team & Culture Building

Coach colleagues, share insights, and foster a healthy, collaborative engineering culture aligned with Canonical's values of openness, excellence, and customer focus.

Customer Engagement

Interact dynamically with clients, present solutions, and provide training to drive enterprise adoption of Ubuntu and open source technologies.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed, you'll need a university degree in Computer Science or equivalent software engineering expertise. Sound knowledge of cloud computing concepts—Kubernetes, OpenStack, AWS, GCP, Azure, Ceph—is essential, alongside practical Linux and networking experience. Intermediate to advanced Python programming skills are required for developing operators and automation.

Beyond technical chops, we're seeking dynamic individuals who love new projects, people interaction, and continual learning. Excellent English communication and presentation skills are key, as is strong organizational ability to follow through on commitments. A second language is a bonus.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation reviewed annually, plus quarterly bonuses. Enjoy a fully distributed work environment with home-based flexibility worldwide. Team members benefit from twice-yearly in-person sprints, personal learning budgets, and comprehensive health/performance programs tailored globally.

• Remote-first since 2004—no office required
• Global travel opportunities (up to 25%)
• Performance-driven pay with bonuses
• Learning stipends for certifications and courses
• Balanced benefits reflecting local needs

Career Growth

At Canonical, growth is hands-on and rapid. You'll gain deep expertise in OpenStack, Kubernetes, Ubuntu networking, and emerging open source tools. Work directly with diverse customers, from startups to Fortune 500s, building a network and portfolio of real-world impact. Our culture emphasizes mentorship, knowledge sharing, and internal mobility—many engineers advance to lead architect or management roles.

Expect exposure to cutting-edge technologies, contributions to upstream open source projects, and opportunities to speak at global conferences. Canonical invests in your development, ensuring you stay ahead in cloud-native and Linux ecosystems.

Why Join Canonical

Canonical stands out for its unwavering commitment to open source and Ubuntu's dominance in cloud infrastructure. We're remote-first pioneers, valuing results over location, with a diverse, inclusive team driving innovation. Unlike traditional tech firms, we offer true work-life balance, global collaboration, and the chance to shape enterprise Linux adoption worldwide.

Join us to work on technologies that power the world's largest clouds, contribute to projects millions use daily, and build a career in a company that's profitable, independent, and growing.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based worldwide, with up to 25% travel for events and sprints.

What cloud platforms do you support?

On-premises and public clouds including AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, with focus on OpenStack, Kubernetes, Ceph.

Do I need prior Canonical experience?

No—strong Linux, Python, and cloud skills plus a passion for open source are key.

How is compensation structured?

Base pay plus performance bonuses, reviewed annually based on location, experience, and results.

What's the interview process like?

Technical assessments, architecture discussions, and customer scenario simulations, all remote-friendly.