About Canonical

Canonical is a pioneering technology company at the forefront of the global shift to open source software. As the publisher of Ubuntu, one of the most influential open-source projects worldwide, Canonical powers critical infrastructure in public cloud, AI, data science, IoT, and engineering innovation. Ubuntu is the foundation for breakthrough enterprise initiatives used by leading public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across sectors. With over 1200 colleagues in more than 75 countries, Canonical embodies a founder-led, profitable, and rapidly growing organization. The company champions a remote-first culture, with minimal office-based roles and periodic in-person team sprints in exciting global locations to foster strategy alignment and collaboration.

Role Overview

This Software Engineer - Python - Cloud position at the graduate level offers an exceptional entry point into Canonical's innovative ecosystem. Based remotely in the Americas, you will contribute to developing, testing, and releasing enhancements to Ubuntu images on public clouds. Ubuntu's quality and stability are paramount, as it serves millions across mission-critical environments and hobbyist setups alike. Working alongside Ubuntu teams and major cloud partners, you will ensure seamless interoperability across diverse releases and environments. This role demands quality-focused Python engineering, with an emphasis on user communication to meet diverse needs. Ideal for passionate individuals excited about open source impact, edge-case thinking, documentation, and community coordination.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will engage in hands-on software engineering to elevate Ubuntu's cloud presence. Key responsibilities include:

• Proactively collaborating with a globally distributed team of brilliant engineers.
• Writing high-quality Python code, complete with unit and functional tests, to introduce new features.
• Debugging complex issues and delivering robust fixes to maintain Ubuntu's reliability.
• Reviewing and providing feedback on code produced by peers to uphold engineering standards.
• Participating in discussions, investigating challenges, and proposing optimal solutions.
• Working from home, with 2-4 weeks of annual global travel for internal sprints and external events.

Your contributions will directly influence tools used by millions, emphasizing quality, usability, and broad user spectrum support.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks curious, flexible, and accountable graduates ready to thrive in a high-impact environment. Essential qualifications include:

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or a related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience with Python on Linux systems.
• Interest and experience in at least two of: Ubuntu Linux administration, continuous integration, end-system contract management, Debian packaging, or public/on-premise clouds.

Bonus qualifications feature previous open source Python contributions, passion for Ubuntu's values, and strong soft skills like articulation and self-motivation. Experience with apt configuration, deb packaging, and system administration is highly advantageous. Applicants must prioritize quality, edge cases, ease of use, documentation, and coordination across user types from enterprises to hobbyists.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers a comprehensive, globally fair compensation package tailored to location, experience, and performance. Base pay is complemented by performance-driven annual bonuses, with frequent reviews for graduates. Key benefits include:

• Fully distributed work with twice-yearly in-person team sprints in inspiring locations.
• USD 2,000 annual personal learning and development budget.
• Annual compensation reviews and recognition rewards.
• Generous holiday, maternity, and paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Program and Wellness Platform.
• Travel perks including Priority Pass and upgrades for company events.

These programs balance local needs while promoting fairness and alignment with Canonical's values.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by excellence and impact. Graduates receive accelerated compensation reviews, enabling rapid advancement based on performance. The remote-first model paired with global sprints provides unparalleled exposure to diverse teams and projects. With a personal development budget, you can pursue certifications, courses, or conferences in Python, cloud technologies, or open source. Engaging with Ubuntu's vast community hones leadership skills, while contributions to high-profile cloud initiatives build a standout portfolio. Canonical's growth trajectory offers paths into senior engineering, architecture, or specialized roles in AI, IoT, and beyond.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means shaping the future of open source at a profitable, founder-led company. Work on Ubuntu, the platform powering global cloud leaders and innovators. Thrive in a remote-first culture that values technology passion, soft skills, and work-life balance. Collaborate with brilliant minds across 75+ countries, travel to new destinations, and impact millions. Canonical sets the highest standards, recruiting top talent to deliver excellence in software that changes the world.

Role FAQs

Is this role remote?

Yes, fully home-based in the Americas, with 2-4 weeks of annual travel for events.

What experience level is required?

Graduate level, with strong Python on Linux and interest in Ubuntu/cloud tech.

Are open source contributions necessary?

Advantageous but not required; passion for open source is key.

How is compensation structured?

Competitive base, performance bonus, annual reviews, and global benefits.

What makes Canonical unique?

Remote-first, Ubuntu innovation, global collaboration, and commitment to open source excellence.