About Canonical

Canonical is the pioneering tech firm behind Ubuntu, the world's most widely used Linux distribution for desktops, servers, and IoT devices. As a leader in open source innovation, Canonical drives the global shift towards free software platforms that power everything from cloud infrastructure to edge computing, robotics, data centers, telco networks, retail systems, and automotive applications. With a fully remote-first culture established since 2004, Canonical employs brilliant minds worldwide, fostering collaboration across time zones in a fast-paced, learning-oriented environment.

Role Overview

The Linux Platform Integration - Ubuntu Systems Senior Engineer role at Canonical offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of Linux adoption across industries. You will work across the full Linux stack—from kernel and networking to virtualization and graphics—optimizing Ubuntu for the latest silicon from major hardware partners. This globally remote position involves partnering with specialist engineers to integrate next-generation features, ensuring Ubuntu delivers first-class performance on IoT, desktop, and server platforms. Ideal for resourceful engineers passionate about open source, this role promises meaningful impact on hardware ecosystems worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

In this senior engineering position, your contributions will directly enhance Ubuntu's compatibility and performance on cutting-edge hardware:

• Design and implement optimal Ubuntu integrations for the latest IoT, desktop, and server-class hardware platforms and software stacks.
• Collaborate with partners to deliver a seamless, high-performance Ubuntu experience tailored to their platforms.
• Adopt a holistic approach to the Ubuntu ecosystem on partner hardware, influencing technical plans, testing strategies, and quality metrics.
• Serve as technical lead in customer engagements, architecting complete systems from cloud to edge.
• Assist partners in integrating applications, SDKs, building device OS images, and optimizing with Ubuntu Core, Desktop, and Server editions.
• Engage with advanced enterprise technologies, including the latest operating systems and application stacks.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks engineers who thrive in dynamic, distributed teams. Essential qualifications include:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, STEM, or a related field.
• Proven experience with Linux packaging systems such as Debian, RPM, and Yocto.
• Hands-on work with open source communities and licensing.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C, and C++.
• Ability to excel in a globally distributed team through self-discipline and motivation.

Nice-to-have expertise includes server technologies (UEFI firmware, GPU computing, RDMA/Infiniband, virtualization), graphics stacks, networking (TCP/IP, DHCP, HTTP/REST), IoT/embedded systems, CI automation like GitHub, performance benchmarking, Docker/OCI containers/Kubernetes, and security best practices.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical prioritizes employee well-being and growth with a competitive, equitable compensation philosophy:

• Fully remote work environment, proven effective since 2004.
• $2,000 USD annual personal learning and development budget.
• Annual compensation reviews and recognition rewards.
• Generous annual holiday leave and parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme for support.
• Priority Pass for travel, including upgrades for company sprints and events.
• Additional benefits like annual bonuses for eligible roles, tailored by location.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is fueled by continuous learning and impactful projects. You'll partner with global experts on exciting technologies, from robots to data centers. The $2,000 USD learning budget, combined with opportunities to lead customer engagements and contribute to open source, positions you for rapid advancement. Regular compensation reviews ensure your growth is rewarded, while sprints and events build lasting professional networks.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means contributing to Ubuntu's dominance in open source while enjoying a premium remote culture. Work on transformative projects across verticals like automotive, telco, and retail. Benefit from a fun, fast-paced team that values articulate, resourceful engineers. With Canonical's ambitious vision for free software platforms, you'll make a tangible difference in Linux adoption worldwide, supported by top-tier benefits and global collaboration.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, this is a globally remote position with no office requirement, leveraging Canonical's remote-first model since 2004.

What salary can I expect?

Base pay varies by experience, location, and skills, with estimates around $120,000-$170,000 USD annually, plus bonuses and reviews.

Do I need specific hardware experience?

Core Linux skills are required; nice-to-haves like IoT, graphics, and server tech enhance your fit.

How does Canonical support professional development?

Enjoy a $2,000 USD learning budget, sprints, and opportunities to lead high-impact projects.

What industries will I work with?

From cloud/edge to IoT in robotics, data centers, telco, retail, and automotive.