About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, stands at the forefront of the global open source revolution. As the publisher of Ubuntu—one of the world's most popular Linux distributions—Canonical powers AI, IoT, cloud computing, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide. Since 2004, we've championed a remote-first culture, enabling top talent to collaborate from anywhere while delivering excellence in software innovation. Our commitment to open source principles drives us to create accessible, secure, and customizable platforms that shape the future of technology.

Role Overview

The Kernel Build Automation Engineer role at Canonical is a senior leadership position focused on revolutionizing Ubuntu Linux kernel configuration and builds. You'll spearhead an initiative to automate and simplify kernel builds, making it effortless for clients to deploy tailored distributions. This home-based role in EMEA demands an industry veteran with deep build system expertise, advanced git proficiency, and kernel patching experience. No prior Linux kernel internals development is required, but mastery of kbuild, kconfig, and make is essential. Join a global team pushing the boundaries of open source automation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of an advanced automated Linux kernel build control system, elevating Ubuntu's distribution capabilities.
• Collaborate closely with Canonical's engineering teams to ensure seamless integration into our expansive ecosystem.
• Dive deep into kbuild, kconfig, and make systems to diagnose and resolve complex build challenges with precision.
• Develop and propose innovative solutions to kernel build roadblocks, advocating for upstream acceptance in the broader Linux community.
• Drive projects from concept through delivery, maintaining strict adherence to schedules and tenacious attention to detail.

Technical Leadership

As the driving force behind this initiative, you'll leverage your broad software stack experience to guide automation efforts, ensuring scalability and reliability for Ubuntu's global user base.

Qualifications & Requirements

Must-Have Skills

• Significant programming ability in Python; strong C skills highly regarded.
• Demonstrated experience in Linux kernel patching, configuration, kconfig, and advanced git workflows.
• Solid background with open-source projects for custom Linux distributions, such as Yocto or Buildroot.
• Excellent written and oral English communication for effective global collaboration.
• Proven leadership in taking complex software projects from concept to production.

Nice-to-Have Expertise

• Javascript or Golang programming.
• Experience building CLI tools with REST API integration.
• Strong CI/CD and process automation background.
• Prior work with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging formats.

Canonical seeks candidates who thrive in remote environments and embody our values of excellence, innovation, and open source contribution.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation tailored to location, experience, and impact, with annual reviews and bonuses. Beyond salary, enjoy:

• Fully distributed work with biannual in-person team sprints for collaboration.
• USD 2,000 annual personal learning and development budget.
• Recognition rewards and annual holiday leave.
• Comprehensive maternity, paternity, and family leave policies.
• Team Member Assistance Program and wellness platform.
• Travel perks including Priority Pass and upgrades for global company events.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by performance and impact, not tenure. You'll work with world-class engineers on high-stakes open source projects, gaining exposure to cutting-edge technologies in kernel development, automation, and distribution engineering. Our remote-first model, combined with learning budgets and regular reviews, empowers you to upskill continuously—whether deepening kernel expertise or exploring AI/IoT integrations with Ubuntu.

Professional Development Opportunities

Access mentorship from Ubuntu kernel veterans, contribute to upstream Linux projects, and lead initiatives that reach millions. Canonical's global reach offers paths to senior engineering, architecture, and leadership roles.

Why Join Canonical

Working at Canonical means shaping the future of open source. Ubuntu's ubiquity in cloud, edge, and desktop computing positions you at the intersection of innovation and real-world impact. Our remote-first culture—pioneered since 2004—fosters work-life balance while challenging you to excel. Be part of a diverse, inclusive team that's changing software for the better, with opportunities to travel, learn, and grow in a truly global environment.

Role FAQs

Is Linux kernel internals experience required?

No, but deep knowledge of kernel build systems (kbuild, kconfig) and patching is essential. Kernel development experience is a bonus.

What is the work arrangement?

Fully home-based in EMEA regions, with occasional travel for twice-yearly team sprints and company events.

How does Canonical handle compensation?

We base pay on location, experience, and performance, with annual reviews, bonuses, and a focus on fairness across our global workforce.

What makes this role unique?

You'll lead Ubuntu kernel build automation, directly enhancing one of the world's most-used Linux distributions for custom client needs.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. Apply now to advance your career in open source excellence.