About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open-source software innovation. We power millions of devices, clouds, and servers worldwide with Ubuntu, the world's most popular Linux distribution. Our mission is to deliver real value to customers through open source, enabling secure, reliable, and efficient computing at scale. From desktops to IoT devices and hyperscale clouds, Canonical's Device Delivery Team partners with tier-1 OEMs and ODMs to pre-load Ubuntu Desktop and Ubuntu Core, bringing Linux excellence directly to end-users.

Role Overview

As a Software Engineering Manager in Linux Enablement, based in Beijing, China, you will lead a high-performing team delivering OEM enablement projects for Ubuntu. This office-based role thrives in a fast-paced environment, demanding deep Linux expertise, low-level debugging, and exceptional management skills. You'll bridge technical challenges with global partners, ensuring Ubuntu's seamless integration into millions of devices. With Canonical's remote-first culture, you'll collaborate across time zones while enjoying the energy of our Beijing office.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit, motivate, mentor, and enable your team to deliver high-quality Ubuntu enablement projects on time.
• Set clear goals, prioritize tasks, and track team health indicators to maximize performance.
• Support team members' career growth while coordinating with project managers, HWE, QA, and certification teams.
• Monitor projects from kickoff to post-mortem, handling escalations and resolving technical issues with OEMs, ODMs, SiPs, and IHVs.
• Prioritize global customer requests and collaborate with Canonical's product engineering teams in Desktop, Foundations, Kernel, and Security.
• Provide leadership on methodologies, strategies, standards, tools, and best practices.
• Travel to EU, USA, China, and Taiwan to foster partnerships and drive success.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required

• Bachelor's or higher degree in STEM, preferably Computer Science or Software Engineering.
• Proven track record in technical Linux roles, ideally Ubuntu or Debian.
• Experience with management responsibilities and commitment to development/testing methodologies.
• Strong collaborative skills in global distributed teams, with self-discipline and on-schedule delivery.
• Excellent English and Chinese communication skills, written and verbal.

Desirable

• Technical leadership, software architecture, and design experience.
• Hands-on with Ubuntu kernel/userspace, packaging (deb/snap), virtualization (QEMU/KVM, LXC/LXD), containers, Python, Go, C, bash, databases (Postgresql, Mongo), Kubernetes, OpenStack, Ceph, or AI/ML.
• Open-source contributions and CI/CD expertise.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Canonical means accessing world-class benefits tailored for tech leaders. Enjoy competitive compensation in Beijing's thriving tech sector, comprehensive health coverage, and generous parental leave. Our remote-first policy offers flexibility, while office-based roles in Beijing provide collaboration hubs. Benefit from stock options, professional development budgets, and wellness programs. Travel to global tech hubs enhances your network, and our equal opportunity commitment ensures an inclusive environment free from discrimination based on race, gender, or background.

Career Growth

Canonical invests in your growth with mentorship, leadership training, and exposure to cutting-edge projects. As a manager, you'll shape Ubuntu's future, advancing to senior roles in engineering or product leadership. Our open-source ethos encourages contributions to upstream projects, building your personal brand. With a track record of internal promotions, Canonical fosters long-term careers in Linux, cloud, and emerging tech like AI/ML and edge computing.

Why Join Canonical

Be part of the team delivering Ubuntu to millions, working on impactful open-source projects that define the future of computing. Canonical's remote-first culture spans continents, blending autonomy with collaboration. In Beijing, tap into Asia's tech boom while influencing global OEM strategies. We're committed to diversity, innovation, and excellence—join us to lead Linux enablement and make a real difference.

Role FAQs

Is this role remote or office-based?

Office-based in Beijing, China, with Canonical's flexible remote-first support for global collaboration.

What travel is required?

Regular travel to EU, USA, China, and Taiwan for customer meetings and project delivery.

Do I need Chinese language skills?

Yes, strong English and Chinese (written/verbal) are required for OEM/ODM communications.

What Linux experience is essential?

Deep knowledge of Linux systems, preferably Ubuntu/Debian, with low-level debugging skills.

How does Canonical support diversity?

As an equal opportunity employer, we ensure fair consideration for all qualified applicants regardless of background.