Junior Linux Kernel Engineer

Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is widely used in enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include leading cloud and silicon providers and industry leaders across sectors. The company operates with a global distributed model, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times annually in person in various locations to align on strategy and execution. The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing. Every year we select new junior professionals into the Canonical Kernel Team to work on the Linux kernel for Ubuntu. If you enjoyed operating systems in your coursework or current role, are confident in your ability to write high quality C and possibly Rust, and are ready to take the plunge, this would be a great place to pursue your next career stage. We are a global team shipping the world’s most widely used Linux kernel across silicon and cloud, where you can apply and grow your software engineering skills. The Canonical Kernel Team builds and maintains all supported Ubuntu Linux kernels for a variety of platforms and architectures, from small embedded devices to desktop/server systems to large-scale cloud environments. In your first year you will tackle serious initiatives, including but not limited to: Optimized solutions for key Silicon and Cloud partner platforms Developer platforms such as Raspberry Pi and RISC-V Enabling Ubuntu on a wide range of embedded systems Security hardening and exploit mitigation Third-party driver integration and distribution, such as graphics Expanded driver support for bleeding-edge PC platforms We select candidates who are recent university graduates or early career professionals enthusiastic to develop kernel-level software in areas including security updates, patching, and testing. The successful candidate will have a software engineering background, be motivated to work in a distributed team, and be willing and able to travel globally twice a year for company engineering events. These are full-time positions available to prospective or recently graduated students. Location: We have home-based Kernel Teams in every timezone. The role entails Collaborate regularly and proactively with a globally distributed team Learn from senior mentors to understand the inner workings of the Linux kernel and how it is distributed Work closely with external silicon, cloud, or hardware manufacturer delivery teams on bleeding-edge platforms Diagnose and resolve issues in the kernel reported by customers, the community, and those found by rigorous testing Take personal responsibility for the delivery of various flavors of the Ubuntu Linux kernel Improve tooling and automation for delivery and testing of Ubuntu Linux kernels Submit, review, and apply kernel patches, working with internal and external upstream maintainers What we are looking for in you Well-organized and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment Professional manner with colleagues, business partners, and the open-source community Ability to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal Programming experience in C and/or Rust Familiarity with version control practices, ideally with git Understanding of operating system kernel fundamentals Ability to travel twice a year for company events of up to two weeks in length Nice-to-have skills Interest and experience in Rust Python and Bash scripting ability Prior experience with Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low-level system engineering What we offer colleagues We consider geographical location, experience, and performance in shaping compensation worldwide. We revisit compensation annually (and more often for graduates and associates) to ensure we recognize outstanding performance. In addition to base pay, we offer a performance-driven annual bonus or commission. We provide all team members with additional benefits which reflect our values and ideals. We balance our programs to meet local needs and ensure fairness globally. Distributed work environment with twice-yearly team sprints in person 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 About Canonical Canonical is a pioneering tech firm at the forefront of the global move to open source. As the company behind Ubuntu, a key open-source project and platform for AI, IoT, and the cloud, we recruit on a global basis and maintain high standards. Most colleagues have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here challenges you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game. Canonical is an equal opportunity employer We are proud to foster a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives, and background create a better work environment and better products. Whatever your identity, we will give your application fair consideration. Seniority level Internship Employment type Full-time Job function Information Technology Industries Software Development #J-18808-Ljbffr