Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer - Optimisation
Canonical · EMEA
- Hybrid
- Full-time
- $120,000 / year
- EMEA
Job highlights
- Optimize Ubuntu across the Linux stack for new hardware.
- Collaborate with silicon partners for feature integration.
- Lead complex system architecture engagements.
- Work with advanced OS and enterprise technologies.
- Join a global, remote-first, open-source pioneer.
About the role
About the Role
Canonical is seeking an Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer to optimize Ubuntu across the full Linux stack, from kernel to GUI, for the latest silicon. This is a fast-paced, problem-solving role involving collaboration with major silicon companies to integrate next-generation features and performance enhancements.
What Your Day Will Look Like
- Design and implement Ubuntu integration for IoT and server-class hardware platforms.
- Collaborate with partners to ensure an optimized Ubuntu experience on their platforms.
- Contribute to technical plans, testing strategies, and quality metrics.
- Act as a technical lead on complex customer engagements involving system architectures.
- Assist customers in integrating applications, building device OS images, and optimizing with Ubuntu Core, Desktop, and Server.
- Work with advanced operating systems and enterprise application technologies.
- Partner with global colleagues on exciting technologies in a rapidly growing company with an ambitious vision.
- Engage with customers on IoT and server platforms supporting diverse verticals.
What We Are Looking For
- Passion for technology and collaborative work environments.
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, STEM, or a related field.
- Experience with Linux packaging (Debian, RPM, Yocto).
- Experience working with open-source communities and licenses.
- Proficiency in C and C++.
- Ability to thrive in a globally distributed team through self-discipline and motivation.
Additional Skills That Could Be Beneficial
- Experience with graphics stacks.
- Solid understanding of networking (TCP/IP, DHCP, HTTP/REST).
- Basic understanding of security best practices in IoT or server environments.
- Strong communication skills, with public speaking experience being a plus.
- IoT/Embedded experience (board, SoC, BMCs, bootloaders, firmware, OS, apps, services).
- Familiarity with Docker/OCI containers/Kubernetes.
What We Offer
Canonical offers a competitive base pay, which varies based on location, experience, and skills. Additional benefits, bonuses, and incentives may be available depending on the role and location. Our compensation philosophy ensures global equity.
Benefits Include:
- Fully remote working environment (since 2004).
- Personal learning and development budget ($2,000 USD per annum).
- Annual compensation review.
- Recognition rewards.
- Annual holiday leave.
- Parental Leave.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Opportunities to travel for 'sprints' and company events.
- Priority Pass for travel and travel upgrades.
About Canonical
Canonical is a pioneer in open-source technology and the publisher of Ubuntu, a critical platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud. We are a remote-first company with a global reach, setting high standards for excellence. Working at Canonical means embracing the future, thinking differently, working smarter, and continuous learning.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Canonical is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, free from discrimination. We value diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds.
Key skills/competency
- Embedded Linux
- Software Engineering
- Kernel Optimization
- System Integration
- C/C++
- IoT Platforms
- Ubuntu Core
- Performance Tuning
- Open Source Development
- Debian Packaging
Skills & topics
- Embedded Linux
- Senior Software Engineer
- Kernel
- GUI
- Ubuntu
- Silicon Optimization
- IoT
- Server
- C/C++
- Remote Work
- Debian
- Yocto
- Open Source
- System Architecture
- Performance Tuning
- Software Development
How to get hired
- Research Canonical's mission: Understand their commitment to open source and Ubuntu's role in AI, IoT, and cloud.
- Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience with Linux kernel, C/C++, packaging (Debian, Yocto), and embedded systems.
- Showcase open-source contributions: Detail your involvement in open-source communities and understanding of licenses.
- Prepare for remote collaboration: Emphasize your self-discipline, motivation, and experience in distributed teams.
- Anticipate technical questions: Be ready to discuss kernel optimization, system architecture, and IoT/server environments.
Technical preparation
Master Linux kernel internals and system calls.,Practice C/C++ for embedded systems development.,Build and customize Debian or Yocto images.,Optimize system performance and resource usage.
Behavioral questions
Describe a complex remote collaboration challenge.,How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment?,Share an example of optimizing a system.,How do you handle disagreements with partners?
Frequently asked questions
- What specific silicon platforms will I be optimizing Ubuntu for as an Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer at Canonical?
- As an Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer at Canonical, you'll work with the latest silicon for both IoT and server-class hardware platforms. While specific platforms are often tied to partner roadmaps, expect to engage with next-generation processors and architectures from major silicon companies.
- How does Canonical support its globally remote Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineers?
- Canonical is a fully remote-first company, providing a robust remote working environment since 2004. You'll benefit from a personal learning and development budget, annual compensation reviews, and opportunities for global collaboration and travel to company events ('sprints').
- What is the typical team structure for this Senior Software Engineer role at Canonical?
- You will join a globally distributed team of bright minds, partnering with specialist engineers from major silicon companies. The role involves close collaboration with customers and internal Canonical teams, often taking a technical lead on complex engagements.
- What level of experience is expected for the Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer position?
- The role requires significant experience with Linux packaging (Debian, RPM, Yocto), C/C++ development, and working with open-source communities. As a 'Senior' role, a strong track record in system optimization and architectural contributions is expected, alongside the ability to work independently in a remote setting.
- Does Canonical have specific expectations regarding contributions to open-source communities for this role?
- Yes, experience working with open-source communities and understanding open-source licenses is a requirement. Demonstrating active participation or contributions to relevant open-source projects will strengthen your application for this Embedded Linux Senior Software Engineer role.
- How does Canonical handle compensation for its global remote employees?
- Canonical's compensation philosophy emphasizes equity across its global workforce. Base pay is determined by factors such as geographical location, experience, and skills. The company also offers annual compensation reviews and may provide additional benefits and rewards based on role and location.
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