About Canonical

Canonical is the leading provider of open source software and operating systems, powering global enterprise and technology markets with Ubuntu. As the company behind Ubuntu Linux, Canonical drives innovation in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. Our customers include top public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across sectors. With over 1200 colleagues in 75+ countries, Canonical pioneers global distributed collaboration. Teams connect through two to four in-person meetings yearly in exciting global locations to align on strategy and execution. Founder-led, profitable, and growing, Canonical is reinventing open source information systems management for public clouds and data centers.

Role Overview

This Software Engineer - Python and K8s role at Canonical is perfect for developers passionate about Python, distributed systems, and the full Linux stack. We're building a new community around Python opscode for open source applications on Kubernetes, transitioning Canonical and Ubuntu IS to this open source codebase. Transform internal IS into a product engineering extension, productizing workloads for real-time automated operations on Kubernetes. Work remotely worldwide, collaborating with brilliant minds to deliver reliable, scalable solutions for customers adopting cutting-edge tech. Strong Python skills and Kubernetes familiarity are essential, alongside rigor in code and customer interactions.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll design and deliver open source software operations code in Python, working across the entire Linux stack—from kernel, networking, storage, to applications. You'll learn to think rigorously about reliability, shape high-quality open source monitoring and alerting infrastructure, and simplify operations for customers and the community. Demonstrate sound engineering principles in design, testing, and documentation. Follow agile practices, coach colleagues, and foster a healthy, collaborative culture aligned with Canonical values. Enjoy a work-from-home setup with global travel 1-2 times yearly for up to 2 weeks.

Core Duties Include:

• Python development for open source opscode on Kubernetes
• Ensuring production-scale reliability and efficiency
• Collaborating across teams for integrated solutions
• Maintaining best practices in quality, testing, and docs

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks engineers who love technology and working with brilliant people. Required: Bachelor’s or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or similar; experience in Linux systems administration, package management, and operations; hands-on with at least one public cloud; familiarity with Docker and Kubernetes; proven Python programming skills for challenging projects. You understand reliable software design, stay organized for timely high-quality delivery, and thrive in open source environments focused on cloud computing.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, location- and performance-based compensation with annual reviews, plus performance-driven bonuses. Enjoy a distributed work environment with twice-yearly team sprints, USD 2,000 annual personal learning budget, recognition rewards, generous holiday leave, and maternity/paternity leave. Benefits balance local needs for global fairness, reflecting our remote-first culture and values.

Career Growth

Grow with Canonical through hands-on projects, coaching opportunities, and a focus on development. Annual compensation reviews reward outstanding performance, especially for graduates and associates. Access learning budgets for skill-building in Python, Kubernetes, Linux, and cloud tech. Join a global team transforming open source operations, with paths to leadership in product engineering and beyond. Our engineer-centric culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and real impact on Ubuntu and enterprise open source.

Why Join Canonical

Be part of the Ubuntu revolution at Canonical, a remote-first company shaping open source for enterprises worldwide. Work on breakthrough initiatives in cloud, AI, and IoT with cutting-edge tech like Kubernetes and Python. Collaborate globally, travel to inspiring sprints, and contribute to products used by industry leaders. Profitable and growing, Canonical offers stability, impact, and a premium work environment unmatched in tech. Ideal for open source enthusiasts ready to deliver world-class services.

Role FAQs

Q: Is this role fully remote? Yes, home-based worldwide with occasional global travel for team events.

Q: What experience level is needed? Mid-to-senior Python developers with Kubernetes/Linux expertise.

Q: How does compensation work? Based on location, experience, performance; includes base, bonus, annual reviews.

Q: What's the tech stack? Python, Kubernetes, Docker, full Linux stack, public clouds, open source tools.

Q: How do teams collaborate? Distributed daily, with 2-4 in-person sprints yearly for alignment.