Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Job title: Lead Linux Kernel Engineer - Ubuntu

Job Location: Western Cape, Cape Town

Deadline: April 28, 2025

We are looking for individuals with not only an incredibly deep technical background in operating system kernels and distributions, but also a strong flair for leadership and taking initiative to drive ideas and the associated delivery teams to completion.

While we hesitate to put a specific number of years of experience as a requirement for an applicant, we would be seeking candidates with the demonstrated technical equivalent of 15+ years of industry experience.

Location: We have home-based lead kernel engineer roles in every timezone, although the individual aspects may be linked to a specific geographic region.

What the role entails:

1. Set the technical direction and lead the delivery of a team of junior and mid-career engineers for a key aspect of Ubuntu Linux.
2. Work closely with management within and outside the team to track and coordinate initiatives to delivery.
3. Collaborate daily with other senior technical leadership on the Kernel Team on how best to ensure Ubuntu stays at the pinnacle of Linux distributions.

What we are looking for in you:

1. Well-organised and motivated self-starter able to thrive in a remote work environment.
2. Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
3. Expert understanding of the C programming language.
4. Demonstrated expertise working in a nix-based operating system kernel and distribution. While direct Linux experience would be ideal, it is not required.
5. Python and Bash scripting ability.
6. Powerful grasp of the capabilities and nuances of the git version control system.
7. Prior experience developing with software packaging formats, with direct Ubuntu / Debian / Snap experience being highly regarded.
8. Ability to travel internationally at least twice a year for company events of up to two weeks length.

Nice-to-have skills:

1. Strong background in RTOS and real-time performance analysis.
2. Demonstrated experience with kernel patching and debugging.
3. Strong grasp of device drivers, BSPs, and other low-level system engineering.
4. Prior experience with Rust, ideally as it pertains to the Linux kernel.