Hiring Alert: Junior Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Company: Canonical
Role: Junior Linux Kernel Engineer
Experience: 1-3 years / Recent Graduates
Location: Home-based (Asia Pacific, Bangalore)
Skills: Linux, C, Rust, Python, Bash, Git, Ubuntu, Kernel, Debugging, Automation

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About the Role

Every year, Canonical selects new junior professionals into the kernel team to work on the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. If you are passionate about operating systems, confident in your ability to write high-quality C and Rust, and eager to grow, this role is ideal. Canonical's global team maintains the world's most widely used Linux kernel across cutting-edge platforms.

Responsibilities in Your First Year:

• Develop optimized solutions for key silicon and cloud partner platforms.
• Enable developer platforms such as Raspberry Pi and RISC-V.
• Expand Ubuntu support on embedded systems.
• Work on security hardening and exploit mitigation.
• Integrate and distribute third-party drivers.
• Enhance driver support for cutting-edge PC platforms.

Target Candidates:

• Recent graduates or early career professionals.
• Background in software engineering.
• Motivated to work in distributed teams with global collaboration.
• Ready to travel globally twice a year for company events.

Note: Full-time roles only; no part-time or internships available.

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What Your Day Will Look Like

• Collaborate with a globally distributed team.
• Learn from senior mentors about Linux kernel internals.
• Work with external teams on hardware and cloud platforms.
• Diagnose and resolve kernel issues reported by customers and community.
• Take responsibility for delivering Ubuntu Linux kernel versions.
• Improve automation for kernel delivery and testing.
• Submit and review kernel patches with internal and external maintainers.

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What We Are Looking For

• Required Skills:

  • Self-starter with strong organizational skills for remote work.
  • Professional communication in English.
  • Programming experience in C and/or Rust.
  • Familiarity with Git and version control practices.
  • Understanding of OS kernel fundamentals.
  • Willingness to travel for company events (twice a year).

• Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in Rust, Python, and Bash scripting.
  • Knowledge of Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging.
  • Kernel patching and debugging experience.
  • Proficiency in device drivers, BSPs, and low-level system engineering.

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What We Offer

• Competitive compensation, including performance bonuses.
• Annual personal learning budget of $2,000 USD.
• Home-based work environment with international team events.
• Annual holiday leave and parental leave benefits.
• Employee assistance programs and travel upgrades for long company events.

Canonical is an equal-opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values.