About Canonical

Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu, the world's leading open source operating system powering enterprise innovation across public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. As a pioneer in global distributed collaboration, Canonical employs over 1200 colleagues across 75+ countries with minimal office-based roles. Teams connect through strategic in-person meetings two to four times yearly in exciting global locations. Founder-led and profitable, Canonical continues to grow while delivering enterprise-grade open source solutions to top cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders.

Canonical's commitment to open source extends to building the next generation of Ubuntu-based container images, designed for seamless application deployment with long-term security, performance, and usability. These free-to-use images invite community participation, aligning with Canonical's open development philosophy.

Role Overview

The Software Engineer - Python - Container Images role at Canonical focuses on developing and maintaining a portfolio of high-quality Ubuntu container images. Based remotely in the Americas, this position involves collaboration with internal and external teams to ensure top-tier quality and Ubuntu user experience. Engineers will implement CI/CD automation, leveraging deep container DevOps expertise, and contribute to fast-evolving products like OCI-compliant Rocks images.

This is an opportunity for Python-proficient engineers passionate about open source to shape container technology adoption. Seniority is determined by software development experience and leadership potential, ranging from graduate to mid-senior levels. Work in an agile, globally distributed environment with up to 15% travel for events.

Key Responsibilities

Building Container Infrastructure

Design and build robust, scalable container images optimized for performance, security, and cloud-native compatibility. Maintain an expanding portfolio while ensuring seamless integration with Ubuntu ecosystems.

CI/CD Automation

Develop and maintain continuous integration and delivery pipelines for building, testing, and publishing container images. Utilize tools like Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or Concourse CI, incorporating GitOps principles for efficient workflows.

Security and Compliance Tools

Create tools and tests to assess security compliance and compatibility, contributing to Python- and Go-based container-building frameworks. Participate in code reviews, architectural decisions, and technical feedback processes.

Community and Documentation

Engage as a subject-matter expert with the open-source community, grow the team's knowledge base through documentation, and mentor junior members while supporting hiring efforts.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks passionate software developers with hands-on experience in container technologies. Essential qualifications include:

• Strong Python programming skills and familiarity with at least one container tool like Docker or Kubernetes.
• Proven CI/CD and GitOps experience with timely delivery of high-quality software.
• Linux systems administration and package management expertise.
• Collaborative mindset with excellent written and verbal communication for technical discussions.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or related field.
• Team player who values knowledge sharing in open source environments.

Ideal candidates bring clarity to engineering challenges and enthusiasm for Ubuntu's open source mission.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, location- and experience-based compensation with annual reviews and performance-driven bonuses. Enjoy a fully remote setup in the Americas, global travel opportunities, and collaboration with top talent. Additional perks include learning budgets, health benefits tailored to regions, and contributions to pension or retirement plans. Teams benefit from modern tools, inclusive culture, and regular offsites in inspiring locations.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is merit-based. Excel in this role to lead container initiatives, mentor globally, or advance into senior engineering, architecture, or management. The company's growth provides paths into product strategy, open source leadership, and enterprise solutions. Regular feedback, skill development resources, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies like AI, cloud, and IoT ensure continuous professional evolution.

Why Join Canonical

Join a profitable, founder-led company shaping open source's future. Work on Ubuntu container images that power global enterprises, contribute visibly to OCI standards, and collaborate in a remote-first culture emphasizing trust and autonomy. With 1200+ experts worldwide, Canonical offers meaningful impact, work-life balance, and the chance to build a rewarding tech career. Passionate about containers, Python, and DevOps? Leave your mark at Canonical.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, home-based in the Americas with up to 15% global travel for events and team meetups.

What experience level is required?

From graduate to mid-senior Software Engineer, based on development background and leadership.

Do I need container experience?

Yes, experience building images and using tools like Docker or Kubernetes is essential.

How does Canonical support open source?

We develop in the open, welcome community contributions, and provide long-term security for Ubuntu images.

What is the compensation structure?

Competitive base pay with annual reviews, performance bonuses, and region-adjusted benefits.