About Canonical

Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu, the world's leading Linux distribution for software engineers, desktops, cloud, and IoT devices. As a pioneer in open source software, Canonical delivers high-performance, secure platforms that power enterprise computing and connected devices globally. With Ubuntu at its core, Canonical partners with top silicon manufacturers, OEMs, and ODMs to optimize performance on the latest hardware, from x86 and ARM to RISC-V architectures.

Canonical's commitment to open source extends to innovative solutions like Ubuntu Core, a containerized, transactionally secure OS ideal for embedded and IoT environments. This ensures mathematical precision and rigorous security for millions of devices, transforming industries through smart, connected technology. Join a remote-first culture where engineers drive innovation in low-level system software for autonomous devices.

Role Overview

The Linux Devices Software Engineer role at Canonical spans multiple teams focused on low-level system technology for constrained environments. This general track covers all seniority levels, matching candidates to specialized teams like Ubuntu Core development, silicon optimization, kernel drivers, hardware QA, robotics, industrial IoT, and networking software after initial interviews.

Engineers tackle challenges in memory, performance, battery, and connectivity-limited code that must perform reliably on unreliable hardware. Work on classic Ubuntu for embedded systems and Ubuntu Core for production appliances, contributing to open source projects that deploy across the widest range of devices.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll dive into the latest Linux kernel and open source technologies, delivering Ubuntu for cutting-edge IoT and server hardware. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and maintaining Ubuntu Core and snapd for containerized device OS.
• Optimizing the Ubuntu kernel and libraries for silicon-specific capabilities on x86, ARM, and RISC-V.
• Integrating and maintaining device-oriented software stacks, including kernel drivers and hardware enablement.
• Building device OS images with Ubuntu Core, Desktop, and Server editions.
• Debugging complex issues and producing high-quality code fixes.
• Collaborating proactively with globally distributed teams and displaying technical leadership in communities.
• Participating in customer engagements as a technical lead on system architectures from cloud to edge.
• Contributing to top-tier technical documentation and helping customers ship apps on Ubuntu.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks exceptional Linux software engineers with a passion for open source, innovation, and cutting-edge hardware. Essential qualifications include:

• An exceptional academic track record from high school and university, with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science or STEM (or a compelling alternative narrative).
• Proven drive and track record of exceeding expectations.
• Hands-on experience with Linux, preferably Debian or Ubuntu.
• Passion for Linux or embedded systems software, such as kernel, graphics, or Yocto.
• Fluency in at least one of Golang, C, C++, or Rust.
• Professional written and spoken English, excellent interpersonal skills, curiosity, flexibility, and accountability.
• Strong communication, presentation skills, and self-motivation.

Roles span silicon software engineers, kernel driver specialists, hardware QA, certification, robotics, industrial IoT, and networking (switching, routing, SmartNICs).

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers a premium work environment tailored for top talent:

• 100% remote work from anywhere in the world, with roles open in every time zone.
• Global travel opportunities: 2-4 weeks per year for company events and collaboration.
• Competitive salary estimates in the global tech sector, with a 5-10% buffer for high performers.
• Access to the latest hardware platforms and open source technologies.
• Opportunities to build thriving communities and contribute to broad technologies.
• Comprehensive support for work-life balance in a flexible, result-oriented culture.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by technical leadership and contributions. Start by making high-quality design and code impacts, then advance to leading complex customer engagements and external communities. With teams focused on embedded open source, you'll develop expertise in robotics, IoT, and edge computing. Canonical invests in your growth through global collaboration, skill-building in modern languages like Rust and Golang, and exposure to enterprise-grade projects.

Technical Leadership Path

From individual contributor to technical lead, influence Ubuntu's direction in device ecosystems. Engage with silicon partners and OEMs, shaping hardware-software integration standards.

Why Join Canonical

Join Canonical to work at the forefront of open source for connected devices revolutionizing every industry. Ubuntu's developer focus, enterprise security, and Canonical's remote-first culture empower you to innovate without constraints. Be part of a global team shipping software to billions of devices, partnering with industry leaders, and building the future of Linux on edge hardware. If you thrive in unforgiving, real-world environments, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, positions are home-based worldwide, with some office-based options. Expect 2-4 weeks of global travel annually for events.

What teams will I join?

Initial interviews identify fits across Ubuntu Core, kernel, hardware enablement, QA, robotics, IoT, and networking teams.

What experience is required?

Strong Linux background, programming in C/C++/Rust/Golang, and passion for embedded systems. All seniority levels welcome.

How does Canonical support open source?

We encourage community contributions, technical documentation, and leadership in external projects deploying Ubuntu widely.