About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, stands at the forefront of open source innovation. As a leading provider of open source software and operating systems, Canonical powers global enterprise initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. Ubuntu, our flagship platform, is trusted by the world's top public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across sectors. Founded in 2004, Canonical pioneered the remote-first model with over 1000 colleagues in 70+ countries, fostering global distributed collaboration. Teams align through in-person sprints two to four times yearly in exciting global locations. Founder-led, profitable, and growing, Canonical sets the standard for excellence in open source.

Role Overview

This Software Engineer - Python/Golang - Kubernetes position joins Canonical's Kubernetes product team. You'll develop operators for complete lifecycle management of mission-critical components and addons for zero-ops integration of projects into Kubernetes clusters. Gain deep expertise in the latest Kubernetes features while integrating the best open-source solutions for end-users. Collaborate with industry peers and partners to deliver cutting-edge functionality. This remote role in the Americas is perfect for engineers passionate about open source, Linux, Golang, Python, and Kubernetes, offering a chance to shape enterprise-grade cloud-native technologies.

Work Environment

Embrace Canonical's remote-first culture with flexible home-based work across the Americas. Expect 2-4 weeks of global travel annually for team sprints, customer events, and industry conferences, complete with Priority Pass and upgrades for long-haul flights.

Key Responsibilities

As a Software Engineer on the Kubernetes team, your impact will be immediate and meaningful:

• Write high-quality, production-ready code to build new features in Kubernetes operators and addons.
• Debug complex issues, contribute fixes, and interact with the vibrant global open source community.
• Proactively collaborate with a distributed team of talented engineers across time zones.
• Research and incorporate the latest Kubernetes features and open-source innovations.
• Partner with industry leaders to ensure solutions meet real-world enterprise needs.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks top-tier talent who thrive in open source environments:

• Proven Golang developer with fluency in Python programming.
• Hands-on experience with Kubernetes, including operators, deployments, and cluster management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for global collaboration.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM, or related field.
• Passion for technology, Linux, open source software, and working with brilliant minds.

Prior experience with Ubuntu, cloud-native technologies, or distributed systems is highly valued.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation tailored to location, experience, and impact, with annual reviews and bonuses. Beyond base pay, enjoy:

• USD 2,000 annual personal learning and development budget.
• Distributed work with biannual in-person team sprints in global destinations.
• Comprehensive leave: annual holiday, maternity, and paternity.
• Employee Assistance Programme for wellbeing support.
• Recognition rewards and travel perks including Priority Pass.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by performance and impact, not tenure. Annual compensation reviews ensure recognition of outstanding contributions. Access mentorship from Kubernetes and open source experts, plus a dedicated learning budget for certifications, conferences, and courses. Work on high-visibility projects shaping Ubuntu's role in AI, cloud, and IoT. With frequent global sprints, expand your network and skills in a founder-led environment that challenges you to excel.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means contributing to Ubuntu, the world's most important open source platform for cloud-native innovation. Be part of a remote-first pioneer that's profitable and expanding. Work with the best engineers on mission-critical technologies used by Fortune 500 companies. Our commitment to diversity creates inclusive teams where every perspective drives better products. This role offers not just a job, but a platform to raise your game, learn continuously, and influence the future of open source.

Role FAQs

Q: Is this role fully remote? Yes, home-based in the Americas with 2-4 weeks travel for sprints and events.

Q: What Kubernetes experience is required? Hands-on experience with Kubernetes core concepts, operators preferred.

Q: How does compensation work? Competitive base with annual reviews, performance bonus, based on experience and location.

Q: What makes Canonical unique? Remote-first since 2004, Ubuntu publisher, global open source leader with founder-led growth.

Q: Are there learning opportunities? Yes, USD 2,000 annual budget plus exposure to cutting-edge tech and experts.