About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software innovation. Since founding Ubuntu in 2004, Canonical has empowered millions of users, developers, and enterprises with the world's most widely used Linux desktop and server platform. Our mission is to deliver free software that realises the potential of the cloud, IoT, and edge computing. With a remote-first culture spanning over 70 countries, Canonical fosters collaboration among brilliant minds to push the boundaries of technology.

Ubuntu powers everything from personal desktops to hyperscale data centres, robots, and telco infrastructure. Our commitment to open source principles ensures that our work benefits the entire community, driving performance optimisations for the latest silicon and hardware platforms.

Role Overview

As an Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer - Optimisation at Canonical, you will work across the full Linux stack—from kernel to GUI—to optimise Ubuntu for cutting-edge IoT and server-class hardware. This globally remote role is fast-paced and problem-solving focused, partnering with specialist engineers from major silicon companies to integrate next-generation features and performance enhancements.

You'll deliver delightful, first-class Ubuntu experiences on partner platforms, taking a holistic approach that spans technical planning, testing, and quality assurance. Whether optimising for robots, data centres, telco, or retail verticals, you'll shape the future of embedded Linux systems.

Key Responsibilities

Optimise Ubuntu for New Hardware

Design and implement the best Ubuntu integrations for the latest IoT and server-class platforms, ensuring seamless performance across diverse software stacks.

Partner Collaboration

Work closely with partners to create optimised Ubuntu experiences, providing inputs on technical plans, testing strategies, and quality metrics for complete system architectures from cloud to edge.

Technical Leadership

Lead complex customer engagements, helping integrate apps, SDKs, build device OS images, and optimise applications using Ubuntu Core, Desktop, and Server editions.

Innovation Across Stacks

Engage with advanced operating systems and enterprise technologies, contributing to Ubuntu's evolution in exciting domains like IoT and high-performance computing.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, you need a passion for technology and experience in Linux ecosystems. Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, STEM, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with Linux packaging tools like Debian, RPM, and Yocto
• Proven work with open source communities and licensing
• Strong proficiency in C and C++ programming
• Self-discipline and motivation to thrive in globally distributed teams

Additional valuable skills include experience with graphics stacks, networking protocols (TCP/IP, DHCP, HTTP/REST), IoT/embedded systems from SoC to firmware, security best practices, Docker/OCI containers/Kubernetes, and excellent communication skills with public speaking experience.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers a competitive compensation package tailored to your location, experience, and skills, with equity across our global workforce. Key benefits include:

• Fully remote work since 2004, with flexibility worldwide
• $2,000 USD annual personal learning and development budget
• Annual compensation reviews and performance-based bonuses
• Recognition rewards and sales incentives where applicable
• Generous annual holiday leave and parental leave
• Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support
• Opportunities to travel for team sprints with Priority Pass and upgrades

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact and expertise. As a Senior Software Engineer, you'll lead high-visibility projects, mentor juniors, and influence Ubuntu's roadmap. Our learning budget supports certifications, conferences, and skill-building in emerging tech like edge AI and container orchestration. Annual reviews ensure transparent growth paths, from principal engineer to technical leadership roles in our open source ecosystem.

Why Join Canonical

Join a company that's reshaping computing with Ubuntu at its core. Work with the most advanced technologies in IoT, servers, and cloud-native environments alongside global talent. Our remote-first culture eliminates geographical barriers, emphasising trust, autonomy, and results. Contribute to open source projects that power the world, from data centres to robots, while enjoying unparalleled work-life balance and professional development.

Canonical's ambitious vision for free software means your work has lasting impact, partnering with industry leaders to optimise for tomorrow's silicon.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, this is a globally remote position with no office requirement. We've been remote-first since 2004.

What experience level is required?

Senior level with deep Linux, C/C++, and packaging expertise. IoT/embedded experience is highly valued.

How does Canonical support professional growth?

Through a $2,000 USD learning budget, annual reviews, mentorship, and exposure to cutting-edge projects.

What industries does this role impact?

IoT (robots, retail), telco, data centres, and servers across PC and edge technologies.

What's the application process like?

Submit your CV highlighting relevant experience. We'll assess technical fit via interviews and coding challenges focused on Linux optimisation.