Security Software Engineer

Company: Canonical –

WebSite: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job Description:Security Role Responsibilities and Desired Qualifications

Security roles within the organization may encompass the following responsibilities: defining, implementing, and documenting new security features; leading security-focused initiatives within product engineering teams; analyzing, remediating, and testing vulnerabilities in open source software; contributing to Ubuntu and upstream open source projects to enhance community security; conducting source code audits and vulnerability analysis; integrating new security tools into infrastructure, pipelines, and processes; achieving and maintaining relevant security certifications; extending and enhancing Linux cryptographic components to meet country-specific compliance requirements, such as FIPS and Common Criteria (CC) certifications; collaborating with external partners to develop Center for Internet Security (CIS) benchmarks; designing and developing hardening automation for Ubuntu; maintaining current knowledge of security industry trends and developments; developing, testing, and maintaining new software capabilities; and providing guidance and support to other engineering teams on security best practices.

Ideal candidates will possess the following qualifications: a strong academic record from secondary and post-secondary education; an undergraduate degree in Computer Science or a STEM field, or demonstrable equivalent experience; a history of exceeding expectations; a comprehensive understanding of common security vulnerabilities and remediation techniques; knowledge of contemporary software engineering methodologies; familiarity with open source development tools and processes; proficiency in one or more of the following programming languages: C, C++, Python, Go, Rust, Java, Ruby, PHP, or JavaScript/Typescript; experience as a security champion; experience driving security within a Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC); professional proficiency in written and spoken English; experience with Linux (Debian or Ubuntu preferred); excellent interpersonal skills, curiosity, flexibility, and accountability; passion, thoughtfulness, and self-motivation; excellent communication and presentation abilities; and a results-oriented approach with a commitment to meeting deadlines.

The following skills are considered advantageous: experience in communicating effectively with both team members and the Ubuntu community; experience working with the Linux kernel; experience with security certifications and knowledge of FIPS and/or Common Criteria (CC); experience with OVAL (Open Vulnerability Assessment Language); knowledge of cryptographic modules such as OpenSSL and Libgcrypt; knowledge of low-level Linux cryptography APIs; demonstrated ability to acquire new knowledge quickly; and performance engineering experience.

Compensation and Benefits

The organization offers a competitive compensation package that considers 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, an annual performance-based bonus is offered. Comprehensive benefits are provided to all team members, reflecting the organization’s values and ideals. These benefits are tailored to meet local needs and ensure fairness globally. Specific benefits include: a distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints; a personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year; annual compensation review; recognition rewards; annual holiday leave; maternity and paternity leave; an Employee Assistance Programme; opportunities for international travel to meet colleagues; and Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long-haul company events.

About Canonical

Canonical is an innovative technology firm at the forefront of the open-source movement. As the publisher of Ubuntu, a leading open-source project and platform for AI, IoT, and cloud computing, Canonical is committed to effecting global change. The organization maintains rigorous hiring standards and seeks exceptional individuals. Excellence is expected in all endeavors. Canonical has operated as a remote-first company since its inception in 2004. Working at Canonical provides opportunities for professional growth, innovative thinking, and the acquisition of new skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a workplace free from discrimination. A diverse range of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds contributes to a superior work environment and improved products. All applications are given fair consideration, regardless of identity.

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