Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel
Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is widely used in breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. We work with the world’s leading public cloud and silicon providers and industry leaders in many sectors, fostering global distributed collaboration with over 1,200 colleagues in more than 75 countries.
We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery, support, and maintenance of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The role suits either an experienced manager of high‑performing software development teams or a proficient technical lead eager to take on management responsibilities.
Location: Working from home, worldwide.
Responsibilities

Lead a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region across distinct aspects of delivering all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution.
Take ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux, which may include: working with silicon or cloud partners to implement optimised Linux kernels for their execution environments; ensuring Ubuntu Linux runs on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms; defining and executing the stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu community; mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the kernel; and implementing strong process automation for building, testing, and delivering the kernel.
Engage with other Canonical teams, the open‑source community, and commercial partners.

Qualifications

Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other similar languages.
Substantial experience with operating‑system kernel internals and concepts; Linux experience is highly regarded but not essential.
Demonstrated experience managing or leading a team of software engineers.
Ability to coordinate between multiple distinct teams of differing technical focus to achieve common goals.
Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with Git.
Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience highly regarded.
Professional written and spoken English with excellent presentation skills.
Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events up to two weeks long.

Nice‑to‑have Skills

Experience with kernel patching and debugging.
Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low‑level system engineering.
Background in driving CI/CD and process automation initiatives.
Prior public involvement with an open‑source project.

Benefits

Distributed work environment with twice‑yearly team sprints in person.
Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
Annual compensation review.
Recognition rewards.
Annual holiday leave.
Maternity and paternity leave.
Team Member Assistance Program & Wellness Platform.
Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues.
Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long‑haul company events.

About Canonical
Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source. As the publisher of Ubuntu—one of the most important open‑source projects and the platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud—we are changing the world of software. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Canonical is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background creates a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
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