About Canonical

Canonical is a pioneering technology company at the forefront of the global shift to open source software. As the creators of Ubuntu, the world's most popular Linux distribution for desktops, servers, and cloud, Canonical powers breakthrough enterprise initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include 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 remote-first culture. Teams collaborate globally, meeting in person two to four times a year in exciting locations to align on strategy and execution. Join us to shape the future of open source IT, DevOps, and infrastructure services from bare metal to containers.

Role Overview

The Software Engineer - Solutions Engineering position at Canonical is a key role in revolutionizing open source application and infrastructure operations. This home-based, worldwide opportunity involves leading and inspiring a regional software engineering team to invent new technologies and build innovative products. Focused on model-driven operations via next-generation infrastructure-as-code, you'll enable efficient bare-metal operations for high-performance computing, private cloud, data lakes, AI/ML, and analytics. Working closely with Canonical's managed infrastructure operations team—which runs private OpenStack clouds and Kubernetes clusters—you'll develop pure Python software for open source automation, simplifying DevOps workflows for users building on Ubuntu. Ideal for engineers passionate about distributed systems, cloud computing, and the full Linux stack, this role offers global collaboration, up to 10% travel, and the chance to enhance Ubuntu's robustness and performance.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll dive deep into software development and operations innovation:

• Design and deliver open source software operations code using Python and Golang.
• Engage with the entire Linux stack, including kernel, networking, storage, and applications.
• Shape high-quality open source monitoring and alerting infrastructure.
• Rethink operations paradigms for Canonical's customers and the broader open source community.
• Apply sound engineering design, testing principles, and agile practices in all code.
• Coach and develop colleagues, fostering a healthy, collaborative engineering culture aligned with Canonical values.
• Travel globally up to 10% for internal sprints and external events.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks passionate, organized engineers ready to drive high-quality software delivery:

• Proven Python development expertise.
• Strong understanding of reliable operations in agile environments.
• Sound knowledge of cloud computing concepts and technologies.
• Practical experience with Linux systems and networking.
• Lifelong learner committed to personal and team growth.

Bonus points for a university degree in Computer Science or related field, and Golang skills. This role suits those excited by global teams and the full spectrum of Linux technologies from kernel to containers.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, location-agnostic compensation shaped by experience and performance, with annual reviews and performance-driven bonuses. Beyond base pay, enjoy:

• Fully distributed work with twice-yearly in-person team sprints in fascinating global locations.
• USD 2,000 annual personal learning and development budget.
• Recognition rewards, annual holiday leave, and maternity/paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Program and Wellness Platform.
• Priority Pass, travel upgrades for company events, and opportunities to meet colleagues worldwide.

These benefits reflect Canonical's commitment to fairness, local needs, and a supportive global culture.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact and learning. As a Software Engineer in Solutions Engineering, you'll lead initiatives, mentor peers, and contribute to Ubuntu's evolution. Annual compensation reviews ensure recognition of outstanding performance, while the USD 2,000 learning budget supports certifications, courses, and conferences. With a focus on agile practices and open source contributions, you'll gain visibility in the tech community, opening doors to leadership in DevOps, cloud, and infrastructure innovation. Canonical's remote-first model and global sprints provide unparalleled networking and skill-building opportunities.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means being part of a profitable, growing company pioneering open source transformation. Work on Ubuntu, the backbone of enterprise cloud and AI, in a collaborative environment with minimal hierarchy. Our remote-first culture spans 75+ countries, emphasizing work-life balance, innovation, and real-world impact. Help enterprises achieve model-driven operations, contribute to OpenStack, Kubernetes, and beyond, all while enjoying travel, learning perks, and a values-driven team. Canonical isn't just a job—it's a platform to redefine software operations globally.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based worldwide, with up to 10% global travel for events and sprints.

What tech stack will I use?

Primarily Python, with Golang; full Linux stack including kernel, networking, virtualization, and containers.

What's the experience level?

Suitable for mid-to-senior engineers passionate about Python, cloud, and open source operations.

How is compensation determined?

Based on location, experience, and performance; includes base pay, annual reviews, and bonuses.

Do I need a degree?

Preferred but not required; bonus for Computer Science or related fields.