About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software innovation. With millions of users worldwide relying on Ubuntu for cloud, servers, desktops, and IoT, Canonical drives the future of enterprise computing. Our mission is to deliver the world's best open source solutions for multi-cloud and on-premise environments. As pioneers in distributed systems and automation, we empower organizations with fault-tolerant, scalable data platforms. Join a remote-first company where engineers shape the open source ecosystem and solve mission-critical challenges for innovative enterprises.

Role Overview

The Software Engineer - Data Infrastructure role at Canonical focuses on building a comprehensive automation suite for enterprise data solutions. Our data platform team develops cutting-edge technologies spanning big data, NoSQL, caching, analytics, and SQL engines. You'll tackle the complexities of fault-tolerant, mission-critical distributed systems, delivering the world's best automation for data platforms across multi-cloud and on-premise setups. This home-based position in EMEA time zones suits engineers from junior to senior levels, with opportunities tailored to your Python expertise and distributed systems experience. Work remotely with occasional global travel, contributing to open source communities while supporting large-scale enterprise needs.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Engineering Tasks

Your day involves proactive collaboration with a distributed team of talented engineers. Write high-quality, idiomatic Python code to create and automate new features for data platforms. Debug complex issues, interact publicly with upstream communities, and provide domain-specific expertise to other Canonical teams. Ensure fault-tolerant operations like replication, TLS, and installation for technologies including PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, Kafka, and more.

Team Collaboration

Discuss ideas, iterate on solutions, and work alongside experts in Linux, cloud, and Kubernetes. This role emphasizes automation of data platform operations, not data analysis, allowing you to focus on robust infrastructure that powers enterprise-grade reliability.

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential Skills

Canonical seeks proven hands-on experience in software development using Python and distributed systems. A Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Computer Science, STEM, or a related field is required. You must be willing to travel up to 4 times a year for internal and external events, embracing our global, open source community dynamics.

Additional Desirable Experience

Stand out with experience operating data platforms like PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, OpenSearch, Kafka, Yugabyte, Trino, Superset, Atlas, Ranger, or Redis. Knowledge of Linux administration, package management, public/private clouds (e.g., OpenStack), and Kubernetes for persistent data services will position you for senior roles. Engineers who thrive here balance community contributions with enterprise-scale delivery.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive base pay tailored to your location, experience, and skills within EMEA. Enjoy additional rewards like annual bonuses and incentives. Our remote-first culture provides work-from-home flexibility across European, Middle Eastern, and African time zones, with 2-4 weeks of global travel for collaborative events. Benefit from equity-focused compensation, comprehensive health coverage, and perks reflecting our open source values. All team members receive benefits underscoring our commitment to a diverse, innovative workforce.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact. From junior to senior roles, you'll grow through hands-on projects, mentorship from field experts, and contributions to Ubuntu's ecosystem. Advance in data infrastructure, distributed systems, or leadership, with opportunities to influence open source standards. Our global team fosters continuous learning, code reviews, and public community engagement, positioning you as a leader in enterprise open source.

Why Join Canonical

Join the company powering Ubuntu, the most widely deployed Linux distribution. Work on real-world challenges in fault-tolerant data platforms, collaborating with top engineers in a remote-first environment. Canonical's open source ethos means your code impacts millions, from startups to Fortune 500s. Enjoy unparalleled autonomy, global reach, and a culture prioritizing innovation, equity, and work-life balance. Be part of delivering automation that redefines enterprise data solutions.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based in EMEA time zones, with limited travel for events.

What experience level is required?

Multiple openings from junior to senior; Python and distributed systems experience are key.

Do I need specific data platform expertise?

Hands-on Python and distributed systems are essential; experience with listed technologies is a plus.

How does Canonical support open source?

We actively engage upstream communities and build on Ubuntu for enterprise solutions.

What is the interview process?

Expect technical discussions, coding exercises, and team fit assessments focused on your contributions.