About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, is a global leader in open source software innovation. Since founding Ubuntu in 2004, Canonical has empowered millions of users, developers, and enterprises with the world's most widely used Linux distribution. Our mission is to deliver secure, reliable, and cutting-edge open source solutions that drive real-world applications, from cloud infrastructure to edge computing and embedded systems. Canonical's remote-first culture has been in place since day one, enabling a diverse, worldwide team to collaborate seamlessly across time zones.

In the automotive and industrial sectors, Canonical is at the forefront of bridging open source innovation with stringent industry requirements. Our Ubuntu-based platforms support certifications like ISO 26262 ASIL D, ISO 21434 for cybersecurity, and IEC 61508 for functional safety, enabling partners to innovate securely from factory floors to connected vehicles and cloud integrations.

Role Overview

The Technical Manager - Automotive and Industrial role at Canonical is a strategic leadership position for a passionate open source advocate with expertise in precision engineering. Reporting to the Vice President of Engineering Excellence, you will collaborate closely with the Automotive Product Manager to shape the future of Ubuntu in automotive applications. This globally remote position involves growing and leading a team of engineers focused on adapting Canonical's products to meet automotive and industrial standards, while fostering a culture of excellence, security, and agility.

Your work will ensure Ubuntu's Linux distribution delivers unparalleled reliability, cyber-security, and developer experience for industries demanding compliance with standards such as ISO 9001, UNECE R155 & R156, and ASPICE. With international travel limited to twice-yearly company sprints (up to two weeks), this role offers the flexibility of home-based work worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Work hand-in-hand with Product Management to refine Canonical's automotive vision and strategy. Define and execute a comprehensive engineering roadmap that aligns open source capabilities with industry-specific needs.

Community and Representation

Represent Ubuntu and Canonical in the automotive community, engaging with customers, partners, and standards consortia to advocate for open source solutions in functional safety and cybersecurity.

Team Building and Development

Build and lead a globally distributed team of engineers. Provide coaching, feedback, and hands-on technical leadership to develop skills and drive high-quality, timely delivery.

Process and Culture Enhancement

Lead Linux distribution and open source software strategy for automotive. Advocate modern agile practices, set expectations with stakeholders, and cultivate a healthy, collaborative engineering culture aligned with Canonical's values.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, you bring a robust foundation in software engineering, Linux, and open source. Essential qualifications include:

• In-depth knowledge of Linux packages and embedded development.
• Expertise in automotive and industrial standards like ISO 21434, ISO 26262 (ASIL B-D), SOTIF, IEC 61508, with proven leadership in compliant product development.
• Hands-on experience with C/C++ and Python programming.
• Practical background in automotive embedded systems, functional safety, cloud trends, and related software.
• Demonstrated success in leading, coaching, and mentoring software developers in agile environments.
• A passion for growing people, with a track record of timely, high-quality software delivery.

Canonical values individuals who thrive in remote, international teams and are committed to open source principles.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers a competitive compensation package tailored to your location, experience, and skills, with a philosophy of global equity. Beyond base pay, enjoy:

• Fully remote working environment, pioneered since 2004.
• $2,000 USD personal learning and development budget annually.
• Annual compensation reviews and recognition rewards.
• Generous holiday leave and parental leave policies.
• Employee Assistance Programme for well-being support.
• Travel perks including Priority Pass and upgrades for biannual sprints to connect with global colleagues.

Additional benefits may apply based on location—discuss with your Talent Partner.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by impact and initiative. As Technical Manager, you'll have direct access to senior leadership, influencing Ubuntu's roadmap in high-stakes sectors. Benefit from structured coaching, feedback loops, and a $2,000 learning budget to pursue certifications, conferences, or courses in automotive tech or leadership. Our agile culture promotes internal mobility, with opportunities to evolve into VP-level roles or pivot across product lines like cloud or IoT.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means contributing to Ubuntu's legacy as the gold standard in open source Linux, powering everything from personal desktops to mission-critical automotive systems. Work on pioneering projects that shape industry standards, in a remote-first company with no office politics—just pure engineering excellence. Be part of a values-driven organization committed to security, innovation, and inclusivity, where your leadership will accelerate open source adoption in automotive and industrial realms.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based worldwide, with optional travel for two weeks twice a year at company sprints.

What salary can I expect?

Base pay varies by location and experience; estimates range from $150,000-$250,000 USD annually, plus bonuses and benefits.

Do I need automotive experience?

Yes, practical experience in automotive standards and embedded systems is required.

How does Canonical support professional growth?

Through coaching, a dedicated learning budget, annual reviews, and exposure to global projects.

What is the reporting structure?

You report to the VP of Engineering Excellence and partner with the Automotive Product Manager.