Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is very widely used in breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles. The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.

Job Title: Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu
Location: Home-based - Africa, Lagos
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Kernel Team

The Canonical Kernel Team is seeking exceptionally talented technology experts and industry veterans with a proven track record in operating systems kernel development or low level system engineering. This role involves taking the lead in the architecture, implementation, and ongoing delivery of key aspects of the Ubuntu Linux kernel, including driving engagements for key Silicon and Cloud partners, leading vulnerability mitigation, architecting performance enhancements, streamlining third-party component packaging, and developing new means to deliver Ubuntu Linux at scale. While not a formal managerial role, the successful candidate will possess strong people skills and natural ability to lead engineers within the team.

• Set the technical direction and lead the delivery of a team of junior and mid-career engineers for a key aspect of Ubuntu Linux.
• Work closely with management within and outside the team to track and coordinate initiatives to delivery.
• Collaborate daily with other senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team on how best to ensure Ubuntu stays at the pinnacle of Linux distributions.

• Well-organised and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment.
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Expert understanding of the C programming language.
• Demonstrated expertise working in a *nix-based operating system kernel and distribution (direct Linux experience ideal, but not required).
• Python and Bash scripting ability.
• Powerful grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system.
• Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu/Debian/Snap experience being highly regarded.
• Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events of up to two weeks length.
• Experience Guideline: While we hesitate to put a specific number of years as a requirement, for a comparative guideline we would be seeking candidates with the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15+ years of industry experience.

Nice-to-have skills

• Strong background in RTOS and real-time performance analysis.
• Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging.
• Strong grasp of device drivers, BSP’s, and other low level system engineering.
• Prior experience with Rust, ideally as it pertains to the Linux kernel.

What we offer colleagues

• Distributed work environment with twice-yearly team sprints in person.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and performance-driven annual bonus/commission.
• 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 the platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud, we are changing the world of software. Most colleagues at Canonical have worked from home since our inception in 2004.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply directly through the Canonical careers portal using the link below: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/canonicaljobs/jobs/7625320?gh_src=cgvgfm1d1us

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