Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu
CanonicalRemote
Full Time
Posted September 18, 2025
Not Specified
Remote
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Job Description
A senior-level lead kernel engineer role focused on the architecture, development, and optimization of the Ubuntu Linux kernel, involving collaboration with internal teams and external partners to ensure high performance, security, and reliability of the operating system.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the architecture, implementation, and delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernel enhancements
- Drive engagements with Silicon and Cloud partners to optimize platform solutions
- Mitigate vulnerabilities and harden the Ubuntu Linux kernel
- Develop performance and correctness improvements for the Linux kernel
- Streamline packaging and distribution of third-party components for end-user experience
- Develop scalable delivery methods for Ubuntu Linux meeting quality and schedule standards
- Set technical direction and lead a team of engineers on key aspects of Ubuntu Linux
- Collaborate with management and external teams to track and coordinate initiatives
- Ensure Ubuntu Linux remains a leading distribution through technical leadership and innovation
Requirements
- Proven track record in operating systems kernel development or low level system engineering with a deep technical background in operating system kernels and distributions.
- Demonstrated expertise working in a nix-based operating system kernel and distribution, with direct Linux experience being ideal but not required.
- Expert understanding of the C programming language.
- Strong experience in developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu Debian Snap experience being highly regarded.
- Strong grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system.
- Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events of up to two weeks in length.
- Well-organised and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment.
- Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
- Experience in leading the technical direction and delivery of a team of junior and mid-career engineers for a key aspect of Ubuntu Linux.
- Ability to collaborate daily with other senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team to ensure Ubuntu remains at the pinnacle of Linux distributions.
- Demonstrated ability to set technical direction and lead the delivery of kernel-related initiatives.
- Possession of strong people skills and natural ability to lead engineers within the team and coordinate with external teams.
- Demonstrated expertise in low level system engineering, including device drivers, BSPs, and kernel patching and debugging.
- Experience developing with scripting languages such as Python and Bash.
- Ability to develop and optimize kernel performance, security, and reliability, including mitigation of vulnerabilities and exposures, and active kernel hardening.
- Experience streamlining packaging and distribution of third-party components for optimal end-user experience.
- Ability to develop new means to deliver Ubuntu Linux at scale to meet strict quality standards and delivery schedules.
- A comparative guideline of the candidate having the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15 years of industry experience.
Benefits & Perks
Compensation is based on geographical location, experience, and performance, with annual reviews and recognition rewards
Performance-driven annual bonus or commission
Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints
Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
Annual compensation review
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
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