Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel Join to apply for the Software Engineering Manager - Ubuntu Linux Kernel role at Canonical. 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 public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Customer base includes leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders across many sectors. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times yearly in person in interesting locations around the world to align on strategy and execution. The company is founder‑led, profitable and growing. We are hiring Software Engineering Managers to lead technical teams in the delivery and ongoing support and maintenance of all Linux kernels provided by the Ubuntu Linux distribution. The Linux kernel spans many technical domains and challenges, from integrating bleeding‑edge hardware support, expanding execution environments, to applying the latest fixes to >100 Ubuntu Linux kernels during our Stable Release Update cycles. This role suits either an experienced manager of high‑performing software development teams, or a very proficient technical lead excited to take on management responsibilities. You must be passionate about Linux and aspire to be an integral part of its distribution to millions of users worldwide. Location: Working from home, worldwide. We have kernel teams and openings in every time zone, with no pressure to work from an office. Responsibilities Lead a distributed team of software engineers in your geographic region in distinct aspects of delivery of all Linux kernels for the Ubuntu Linux distribution. Take ownership of particular aspects of Ubuntu Linux which can include but not be limited to: Working with silicon or cloud partners to implement Linux kernels optimised for their execution environments Ensuring Ubuntu Linux can run on a wide range of diverse hardware platforms Defining and executing the stringent quality control standards expected by the Ubuntu user community Mitigating the latest security threats and exploits to the Linux kernel Implementing strong process automation as it pertains to the build, test, and delivery of the Linux kernel Engage with other teams at Canonical, the open source community and commercial partners. Qualifications Significant programming experience in C, with Python, Golang, or other languages highly regarded. 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 Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging. Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low level system engineering. Solid 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 company that publishes Ubuntu, one of the most important open‑source projects and 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. We expect excellence; in order to succeed, we need to be the best at what we do. Most colleagues at Canonical have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here is a step into the future and will challenge you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game. Equal Opportunity Canonical is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background create a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration. #J-18808-Ljbffr