Junior Linux Kernel Engineer – Ubuntu

Company: Canonical –

WebSite: Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Job Description:Canonical, a leading provider of open-source software and operating systems, serves global enterprise and technology markets. The company’s platform, Ubuntu, is widely implemented in transformative enterprise initiatives encompassing public cloud infrastructure, data science applications, artificial intelligence development, engineering innovation, and Internet of Things (IoT) deployments. Canonical’s clientele includes prominent public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across diverse sectors. As a pioneer in globally distributed collaboration, Canonical employs over 1200 professionals in more than 75 countries, with a minimal emphasis on office-based roles. Teams convene in person two to four times annually at international locations for strategic alignment and execution planning. The company operates under founder leadership, maintaining profitability and experiencing continued growth.

Canonical annually selects junior professionals for its Kernel Team, focusing on the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. Candidates with coursework or professional experience in operating systems, demonstrated proficiency in C and potentially Rust programming languages, and a strong interest in kernel-level software development are encouraged to apply. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to the world’s most widely used Linux kernel across advanced silicon and cloud platforms, enhancing software engineering skills.

The Canonical Kernel Team develops and maintains supported Ubuntu Linux kernels for a spectrum of platforms and architectures, from embedded devices to desktop/server systems and large-scale cloud environments. Initial responsibilities within the first year may include: optimizing solutions for key silicon and cloud partner platforms; developing platforms such as Raspberry Pi and RISC-V; enabling Ubuntu on a range of embedded systems; strengthening security and mitigating exploits; integrating and distributing third-party drivers, such as graphics drivers; and expanding driver support for advanced PC platforms.

Ideal candidates will be recent university graduates or early-career professionals eager to develop kernel-level software in areas such as security updates, patching, and testing. Successful candidates will possess a background in software engineering, demonstrate motivation to collaborate within a distributed team, and be willing to travel internationally twice per year for company engineering events. These are full-time positions available to prospective or recent graduates.

This is a home-based Kernel Team role in every timezone.

Responsibilities include:

* Collaborating regularly and proactively with a globally distributed team.
* Learning from experienced mentors to understand the Linux kernel and its distribution processes.
* Working closely with external silicon, cloud, or hardware manufacturer delivery teams on leading-edge platforms.
* Diagnosing and resolving kernel issues reported by customers, the community, and through rigorous testing.
* Assuming responsibility for the delivery of Ubuntu Linux kernel variants.
* Improving tooling and automation for the delivery and testing of Ubuntu Linux kernels.
* Submitting, reviewing, and applying kernel patches, collaborating with internal and external upstream maintainers.

Desired qualifications include:

* Strong organizational and self-management skills, enabling effective remote work.
* Professional conduct with colleagues, business partners, and the open-source community.
* Effective communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
* Proficiency in C and/or Rust programming.
* Familiarity with version control practices, preferably with Git.
* Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals.
* Ability to travel twice annually for company events of up to two weeks in duration.

Preferred skills include:

* Interest and experience in Rust.
* Python and Bash scripting ability.
* Prior experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
* Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging.
* Solid understanding of device drivers, Board Support Packages (BSPs), and other low-level system engineering concepts.

Canonical offers globally competitive compensation, considering geographical location, experience, and performance. Compensation is reviewed annually, with more frequent reviews for graduates and associates, to recognize exceptional performance. In addition to base salary, Canonical provides a performance-based annual bonus or commission, as well as comprehensive benefits that reflect its values and ideals, balancing local needs and ensuring global fairness.

Benefits include:

* Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints.
* 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

Canonical stands as a pioneering technology company at the forefront of the open-source movement. As the publisher of Ubuntu, a pivotal open-source project and a foundational platform for AI, IoT, and cloud computing, Canonical is actively shaping the future of software. The company recruits globally, maintaining high standards for its personnel. Canonical expects excellence and strives to be a leader in its field. With most employees working remotely since its inception in 2004, Canonical offers a forward-thinking work environment that encourages innovation, continuous learning, and professional development.

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a workplace free from discrimination. The company values diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds, believing it creates a superior work environment and enhances product development. Canonical provides fair consideration to all applications, regardless of identity.

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