About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu Linux, stands at the forefront of the global open source revolution. As the publisher of Ubuntu, the world's most popular Linux distribution, Canonical powers AI, IoT, cloud computing, and emerging technologies. Since 2004, Canonical has pioneered a remote-first culture, attracting top global talent to drive innovation in open source software. With a commitment to excellence, Canonical supports silicon giants like NVIDIA, Xilinx, MediaTek, and Qualcomm in delivering optimized Ubuntu kernels for their platforms, expanding Ubuntu's reach across System on Chip (SoC) ecosystems.

Role Overview

The Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - Silicon Enablement role at Canonical is a pivotal position for engineers passionate about low-level software development and hardware optimization. This home-based, worldwide opportunity involves working on the Canonical Kernel Team to build, maintain, and distribute high-performance Linux kernels tailored for diverse SoC platforms. Whether you're an early-career developer with a few years of experience or a senior veteran, Canonical seeks self-starters who thrive in remote environments to meet surging demand from silicon manufacturers. Collaborate with global teams and partners to ensure Ubuntu delivers the optimal experience on cutting-edge hardware.

Why This Role Matters

Ubuntu's dominance in Linux distributions relies on seamless support for new silicon. As demand grows, Canonical is expanding its silicon enablement squads to integrate and optimize kernels for products from leading vendors, pushing the boundaries of performance and reliability in open source.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll dive deep into kernel engineering, partnering closely with silicon vendors and the open-source community. Daily tasks include:

• Collaborating regularly with a globally distributed team of engineers.
• Working hand-in-hand with silicon partners to integrate their platform support into the Ubuntu Linux kernel.
• Diagnosing and resolving kernel issues reported by partners, customers, community members, and through rigorous personal testing.
• Taking ownership of delivering distinct silicon-optimized variants of the Ubuntu kernel to users worldwide.
• Enhancing tooling and automation for efficient kernel delivery and testing pipelines.
• Submitting, reviewing, and applying kernel patches in coordination with internal teams and external upstream maintainers.
• Innovating new methods to maximize performance on partner silicon platforms.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks candidates with proven expertise in hardware-level engineering. Core requirements include:

• Well-organized, motivated self-starter excelling in remote work settings.
• Professional communication skills with colleagues, partners, and the open-source community.
• Strong English proficiency in written and verbal forms.
• Significant programming proficiency in C.
• Deep knowledge of device drivers, Board Support Packages (BSPs), and hardware system engineering.
• Solid experience with Git for version control.
• Firm grasp of operating system kernel fundamentals.
• Willingness to travel twice annually for up to two-week company events.

Nice-to-have skills include Python and Bash scripting, familiarity with major SoC families, Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging, Linux kernel patching/debugging, and silicon performance optimization.

Experience Levels Welcome

From engineers with a couple of years in RTOS or bare-metal environments to seasoned veterans, direct Linux kernel experience is advantageous but not mandatory if hardware expertise is demonstrated.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation reviewed annually, shaped by location, experience, and impact. Beyond base pay and bonuses, enjoy:

• Fully home-based work with twice-yearly in-person sprints.
• USD 2,000 annual personal learning and development budget.
• Recognition rewards for outstanding contributions.
• Generous annual holiday leave, plus maternity and paternity leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme for well-being support.
• Travel opportunities, including Priority Pass and upgrades for long-haul events.

These benefits reflect Canonical's values of fairness, global equity, and employee growth in a remote-first world.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by performance and impact. Annual reviews ensure recognition, while the learning budget fuels skill development in kernel engineering, open source contributions, and emerging tech. Work on high-visibility projects with silicon leaders, contribute to upstream Linux, and advance from junior roles to leading enablement squads. Canonical's remote-first model since 2004 provides flexibility to balance innovation with personal life.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means shaping the future of open source. Ubuntu's role in AI, IoT, and cloud positions you at the intersection of hardware and software innovation. Thrive in a high-standards, excellence-driven culture that's remote-first and global. Challenge yourself to think differently, work smarter, and elevate your expertise while enjoying unparalleled perks and growth opportunities. Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.

Role FAQs

Q: Is Linux kernel experience required?
A: It's a strong advantage, but candidates with RTOS, bare-metal, or direct hardware experience are encouraged to apply.

Q: What is the work setup?
A: Fully remote worldwide, with two annual in-person events up to two weeks each.

Q: How is compensation determined?
A: Based on location, experience, and performance, with annual reviews and bonuses.

Q: What SoCs will I work on?
A: Platforms from partners like NVIDIA, Xilinx, MediaTek, and Qualcomm.

Q: Must I relocate?
A: No, this is a home-based role open to worldwide applicants.