About Canonical

Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu, the world's leading open-source operating system powering enterprise initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. As a pioneer in global distributed collaboration, Canonical employs over 1200 colleagues across 75+ countries with minimal office-based roles. Teams align through 2-4 in-person sprints yearly in exciting global locations. Founder-led and profitable, Canonical serves top public cloud providers, silicon leaders, and industry giants, driving open-source innovation at scale.

Role Overview

Canonical seeks a Senior Software Engineer (Backend) for the Launchpad team, a cornerstone platform for open-source development. Launchpad handles code hosting, review, bug tracking, package building, translations, and more for projects like Ubuntu. In this remote EMEA-based role, you'll architect and refine a mature Python-driven system, ensuring business-critical services remain robust while innovating developer workflows, package capabilities, and modern web UIs. Empower global developers in a high-velocity environment, collaborating with open-source luminaries in Canonical's distributed model.

Key Responsibilities

Influencing Technical Direction

Drive design, architecture, and feature decisions across distributed teams to deliver high-impact solutions for Launchpad's evolution.

Developing High-Quality Code

Craft exceptional, API-first Python code with comprehensive unit tests, building robust, scalable systems that support Ubuntu's ecosystem.

Problem-Solving and Optimization

Diagnose complex technical issues and implement performant, reliable fixes to enhance Launchpad's infrastructure.

Mentoring and Leadership

Mentor engineers, lead code reviews, and uphold best practices to elevate team excellence in open-source development.

Global Collaboration

Thrive in remote work while traveling internationally 2-4 times yearly for strategic discussions and industry events, expanding your network.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical looks for passionate Linux and web services experts with strategic thinking and leadership. Key qualifications include:

• Love for technology, brilliant collaboration, and complex problem-solving.
• Proven excellence in Python for production-ready code.
• Expertise in large-scale web apps, database management (PostgreSQL preferred), and distributed environments.
• Security mindset, Ubuntu familiarity, and Debian/Ubuntu packaging knowledge.
• Bachelor’s or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or related field.
• Curiosity, adaptability, strong communication, and leadership skills.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, location-adjusted compensation with annual reviews, performance bonuses, and global fairness. Enjoy:

• Fully distributed remote work with biannual in-person sprints.
• USD 2,000 annual personal learning budget.
• Performance-driven bonuses and commissions.
• Travel to global events and sprints.
• Balanced benefits reflecting Canonical's values and local needs.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is tied to impact. Senior engineers advance to staff or lead roles by driving innovation in Ubuntu and Launchpad. Annual reviews, mentorship, and a $2,000 learning budget fuel growth. Collaborate with world-class talent, contribute to open-source landmarks, and shape enterprise Linux. With rapid company growth, high performers gain visibility in a founder-led culture prioritizing excellence.

Why Join Canonical

Join a profitable, growing leader in open source. Work on Ubuntu, the backbone of cloud, AI, and IoT. Canonical's remote-first culture offers freedom, global engagement, and purpose-driven impact. Influence platforms used by millions, travel to inspiring locations, and build with brilliant minds. If optimizing scalable systems, mentoring teams, and advancing open-source collaboration excites you, Canonical provides the platform for lasting legacy.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, home-based in EMEA with 2-4 international trips yearly for sprints and events.

What tech stack is used?

Primarily Python for backend, with PostgreSQL, web services, and Ubuntu/Debian packaging.

What experience level is required?

Senior/Staff/Lead; proven Python expertise and large-scale systems experience essential.

How is compensation structured?

Base pay plus performance bonus, reviewed annually, adjusted for location and experience.

Do I need Ubuntu experience?

Familiarity is key; deep knowledge of Linux, packaging, and open-source workflows preferred.