About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open-source software innovation. Founded to advance the Ubuntu operating system, Canonical powers everything from desktops and servers to cloud infrastructure, IoT devices, and AI/ML workloads. Our Device Delivery Team partners with tier-1 OEMs and ODMs to pre-install Ubuntu Desktop and Ubuntu Core, delivering Ubuntu directly to millions of users worldwide. With a remote-first culture, Canonical employs top talent across continents, fostering collaboration in a distributed environment that values autonomy, excellence, and open-source principles.

Role Overview

The Linux Enablement Software Engineering Manager role in Taipei, Taiwan, is a pivotal leadership position within Canonical's Device Delivery Team. You will spearhead a software engineering team focused on OEM enablement projects, ensuring seamless Ubuntu integration for leading hardware manufacturers. This office-based role demands deep Linux expertise, exceptional management skills, and the agility to thrive in a fast-paced, globally distributed setting. Travel to EU, USA, China, and Taiwan is required to engage directly with partners and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit, motivate, mentor, and empower your team to deliver high-quality Ubuntu enablement projects on time.
• Define team goals, prioritize tasks, and track health indicators to optimize performance and career development.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with project managers, hardware enablement engineers (HWE), QA, and certification teams.
• Oversee projects from initiation through post-mortem analysis, managing escalations efficiently.
• Communicate technical solutions with OEMs, ODMs, SiPs, and IHVs to resolve challenges swiftly.
• Prioritize global customer requests and collaborate with Canonical's product teams in Desktop, Foundations, Kernel, and Security.
• Champion best practices, methodologies, strategies, standards, tools, and leadership in software engineering.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's or higher degree in STEM, preferably Computer Science or Software Engineering.
• Proven track record in technical Linux roles, ideally with Ubuntu or Debian distributions.
• Strong commitment to development/testing methodologies and maintainable code quality.
• Hands-on experience with management responsibilities in engineering teams.
• Collaborative mindset suited for global, distributed teams with self-discipline and motivation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English and Chinese.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver projects on schedule with high energy.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Technical leadership as a tech lead, making key architectural decisions.
• Software architecture, design, and development in Ubuntu kernel/userspace, deb/snap packaging.
• Expertise in QEMU/KVM, LXC/LXD, containers, Python, Go, C, bash, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Kubernetes, OpenStack, Ceph, or AI/ML.
• Contributions to open-source projects and CI/CD pipelines.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Canonical offers unparalleled benefits in the tech industry. Work on cutting-edge Ubuntu projects that shape the future of open-source computing. Enjoy a remote-first culture with flexible office-based options in Taipei, promoting work-life balance. Competitive compensation reflects Taipei's tech sector rates, with opportunities for global travel and exposure to world-class partners. Canonical invests in your growth through mentorship, training, and career progression in a diverse, inclusive environment. As an equal opportunity employer, we prioritize talent regardless of background, ensuring a supportive workplace for all.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career trajectories are boundless for driven leaders. As Software Engineering Manager, you'll evolve into senior leadership, influencing Ubuntu's roadmap and open-source ecosystem. Mentorship programs, skill-building in emerging tech like containers and Kubernetes, and visibility with executive teams accelerate your path. Many managers advance to Director roles or pivot to product strategy, leveraging Canonical's global footprint.

Why Join Canonical

Canonical stands at the forefront of open-source revolutionizing computing. Your work enables Ubuntu on millions of devices, from desktops to edge AI systems. Thrive in a premium, high-impact culture emphasizing innovation, autonomy, and collaboration. With remote-first policies, diverse teams, and a commitment to ethical open-source practices, Canonical offers purpose-driven careers that matter. Be part of delivering world-class software meeting global computing needs.

Role FAQs

Is this role remote?

This is an office-based position in Taipei, Taiwan, within Canonical's remote-first culture, with required travel.

What Linux experience is needed?

Deep knowledge of Linux, preferably Ubuntu/Debian, including kernel, userspace, and debugging.

Are language skills mandatory?

Yes, strong English and Chinese (written/verbal) for global OEM/ODM communication.

What travel is involved?

Travel to EU, USA, China, and Taiwan for partner meetings and projects.

How does Canonical support diversity?

As an equal opportunity employer, we ensure fair consideration without regard to race, gender, orientation, or other protected statuses, fostering inclusive innovation.