About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software and operating systems for enterprise markets. Ubuntu powers breakthrough initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world's top public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across sectors. As a pioneer in distributed collaboration, Canonical employs over 1000 colleagues across 70+ countries with minimal office-based roles. Teams connect through two to four annual in-person sprints in exciting global locations to align on strategy and execution. Founder-led and profitable, Canonical continues to grow while championing open source innovation.

Role Overview

The Cloud Solutions Architect - Alliances role sits within Canonical's Alliances team, focusing on enabling major partners like Intel, Nvidia, Google, Dell, HP, Accenture, and Tata to adopt Ubuntu and open source technologies. This home-based, worldwide position involves architecting cloud-native solutions, supporting OEMs, GSIs, ISVs, channel partners, and public cloud alliances. Field engineers at Canonical tackle real-world customer challenges across the open source stack—from kernel to edge—while speaking the language of business leaders to drive joint go-to-market strategies. If you thrive on Kubernetes, cloud infrastructure, and partner collaboration, this role offers unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge technologies and global enterprises.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Impact

Your day will involve deep dives into Ubuntu, Linux, networking, and services in production environments. You'll architect solutions using Kubernetes, Kubeflow, OpenStack, Ceph, and Spark across on-premises and public clouds like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. Expect to integrate popular open source tools such as PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Kafka, Cassandra, and NGINX into partner ecosystems.

Partner Collaboration

Guide partners in building joint solutions leveraging Canonical technologies. Design and publish reference architectures, conduct technical validations, and lead onboarding workshops to accelerate product adoption. Support business leaders in defining technically sound go-to-market programs, ensuring reliable, efficient, and cost-effective outcomes for customers.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks architects with extensive hands-on experience in Linux (Ubuntu preferred), Kubernetes, Ceph, and software automation. Proven track record designing and implementing solutions on public or private clouds is essential, alongside Python and bash proficiency for troubleshooting. Fluent English, exceptional communication, and presentation skills are non-negotiable for customer-facing pitches and demonstrations.

High motivation, multitasking ability, and reliable follow-through define success here. Passion for customer engagement, understanding diverse environments, and exploring Canonical innovations like LXD, Juju, and Snaps will set you apart. Global travel up to 30% is required, paired with a degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent technical experience.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, location-agnostic compensation shaped by experience and performance, with annual reviews and performance-driven bonuses. Enjoy a fully distributed work environment with biannual team sprints in inspiring locations worldwide. Benefits are tailored globally for fairness, reflecting Canonical's values of openness, collaboration, and excellence. All team members access programs supporting work-life balance, professional development, and community involvement in open source.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is merit-based in a growing, innovative company. Alliances Architects gain visibility with executive partners and exposure to emerging technologies like AI/MLOps and edge computing. Regular feedback, skill-building opportunities, and cross-team mobility foster rapid advancement. Many field engineers evolve into leadership roles shaping Canonical's global strategy.

Why Join Canonical

Join a remote-first culture where you influence enterprise adoption of Ubuntu across clouds and industries. Work with the best minds in open source, solving complex problems for Fortune 500 clients. Canonical's commitment to doing right by partners—regardless of commercial interests—builds trust and long-term impact. Embrace a profitable, founder-led organization prioritizing innovation, diversity, and global collaboration.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based worldwide, with up to 30% global travel for workshops and sprints.

What technologies will I work with?

Core stack includes Ubuntu, Kubernetes, OpenStack, Ceph, Python/bash, and integrations like Kafka and NGINX on AWS/Azure/GCP.

How does Canonical support professional growth?

Annual reviews, bonuses, training, and biannual sprints provide continuous development in a high-impact environment.

Who are the typical partners?

OEMs (Intel, Dell), GSIs (Accenture), ISVs, and public clouds (Google, AWS) adopting Ubuntu for enterprise solutions.

This role represents a prime opportunity for cloud experts passionate about open source to shape the future of technology alliances at Canonical.