About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software innovation. Founded with a mission to make open source software available to people everywhere, Canonical powers millions of servers, desktops, and devices worldwide with Ubuntu—the world's most popular Linux distribution for servers and cloud computing. Our Server Certification team plays a pivotal role at the intersection of hardware and software, ensuring Ubuntu delivers exceptional performance on the latest enterprise hardware from top silicon vendors, OEMs, and ODMs.

With a remote-first culture spanning continents, Canonical empowers engineers to work flexibly while contributing to projects that shape the future of Linux in datacenters, cloud environments, and edge computing. Join us to represent Canonical to hardware partners and drive seamless Ubuntu experiences across industries.

Role Overview

As a Software Engineer in Ubuntu Server Certification, you'll develop Python-based testing tools that validate Ubuntu Server on cutting-edge enterprise hardware. This home-based role in the Americas time zones offers the chance to troubleshoot hardware-software interactions, support partners in certification efforts, and contribute to open source projects like Checkbox and Testflinger. Ideal for Python developers with a hardware troubleshooting mindset, this position ensures Ubuntu users enjoy secure, out-of-the-box compatibility on more devices.

Work collaboratively with silicon companies, OEMs, ODMs, and Canonical teams to expand Linux adoption in enterprise servers. Expect a dynamic environment with occasional global travel for events, combining remote flexibility with high-impact contributions to Ubuntu's ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and Maintain Testing Tools

Contribute directly to Canonical's open source testing frameworks, including Checkbox for comprehensive hardware validation and Testflinger for scalable testing orchestration. Your Python expertise will enhance tools that certify Ubuntu Server across diverse hardware platforms.

Troubleshoot and Optimize

Diagnose and resolve issues in hardware compatibility, functionality, and performance. Leverage your Linux and server hardware knowledge to ensure smooth Ubuntu deployments in production environments.

Partner Collaboration

Act as Canonical's technical liaison to datacenter hardware partners. Provide hands-on support for certification processes, educate on tools and roadmaps, and assist internal teams with customer deployments of Canonical's Datacenter and Cloud products.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed, you need strong Python and shell scripting skills, deep knowledge of server-class hardware, and proficiency with Ubuntu, virtualization, and cloud concepts. Confidence in customer-facing interactions is essential, as you'll engage directly with partners.

Desired experience includes test automation for hardware validation, CI/CD pipelines, and technologies like QEMU, KVM, LXC/LXD, or Docker. A problem-solving mindset and passion for open source align perfectly with our team's focus on delivering reliable Ubuntu Server experiences.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers a competitive compensation package tailored to Americas tech markets, fully remote work, and 2-4 annual trips for key events. Enjoy a vibrant, inclusive culture with continuous learning opportunities, professional development, and the pride of impacting global Linux adoption. Our remote-first approach supports work-life balance while fostering collaboration across time zones.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact. Excel in Server Certification to advance into senior engineering, partner management, or leadership roles shaping Ubuntu's hardware ecosystem. Access mentorship, training in emerging technologies, and contributions to high-visibility open source projects that build your reputation in the Linux community.

Why Join Canonical

Be part of the team making Ubuntu the gold standard for enterprise Linux. Work on meaningful projects that influence datacenter hardware worldwide, in a diverse, discrimination-free environment valuing varied perspectives. Canonical's remote-first culture, commitment to open source, and focus on employee growth make it an ideal place for ambitious engineers passionate about hardware-software synergy.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based in the Americas, centered in North and South American time zones, with limited travel.

What tools will I work with?

Primarily Python for Checkbox and Testflinger, plus shell scripting, Ubuntu, and virtualization tech.

Do I need hardware experience?

Yes, knowledge of server-class hardware and troubleshooting Linux on enterprise systems is key.

How does Canonical support diversity?

We foster an inclusive workplace where diverse experiences drive innovation for Ubuntu users globally.