Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - BIOS/Firmware at Canonical

Ubuntu Linux Kernel Engineer - BIOS/Firmware

Location: Home based - APAC (remote; candidate should be located in the APAC region)

Role overview

Canonical's Kernel Team is expanding investment in PC platform stability, reliability and performance. We are looking for an engineer to own aspects of the boot process, BIOS/UEFI, ACPI and related firmware components as they interact with the Ubuntu Linux kernel. You will work with PC platform vendors, community contributors and internal teams to diagnose, patch and harden the platform boot and configuration flow for Ubuntu on x86 and related environments.

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate regularly with a globally distributed team and PC platform enablement engineers and vendors to resolve BIOS, UEFI, ACPI and boot-related kernel issues.
• Act as a primary contributor and maintainer for the Firmware Test Suite (FWTS) and improve verification tooling and automation for Ubuntu on x86 platforms.
• Submit, review and apply kernel patches and coordinate with upstream maintainers to get fixes merged.
• Improve tooling and automation for comprehensive verification of Ubuntu on PC hardware and streamline the bootstrap/firmware validation process.
• Work professionally with colleagues, partners and the open-source community to triage issues and deliver robust solutions.
• Travel internationally up to twice a year for company events (up to two weeks each) where required.

What we are looking for in you

We seek a well-organised, motivated self-starter who thrives in remote collaboration and can communicate effectively in English.

• Significant programming ability in C and practical experience with kernel patching and debugging.
• Demonstrated experience with UEFI and/or ACPI internals, and familiarity with AML is highly desirable.
• Solid background with git and collaborative open-source workflows.
• Understanding of the x86 bootstrap process and operating system kernel fundamentals, especially ACPI/UEFI interactions.
• Python and Bash scripting skills for automation and tooling.
• Ubuntu/Debian/Snap packaging experience is desirable.
• Ability to communicate clearly in English, both written and verbal, and present technical findings where needed.

Additional skills that you might also bring

• Prior experience with the Coreboot project or a major PC platform firmware vendor.
• Familiarity with Devicetree, SystemReady, u-boot or other non-x86 bootstrap/configuration mechanisms.
• Public speaking, documentation and community-facing technical engagement experience.

What we offer colleagues

Canonical shapes compensation based on geography, experience and performance and provides a benefits package adjusted for local requirements. In addition to base pay we offer performance-driven bonuses for eligible roles and a range of colleague benefits.

• Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints.
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year.
• Annual compensation review and recognition rewards.
• Annual holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave.
• Team Member Assistance Programme and wellness support.
• Opportunity to travel to meet colleagues; Priority Pass and travel upgrades for long-haul company events.

About Canonical

Canonical publishes Ubuntu, the world’s most widely used Linux desktop and server distribution. We partner with silicon vendors, cloud providers and hardware manufacturers to bring Ubuntu to a broad range of devices and infrastructure. Joining Canonical means working with bright engineers across the globe on open source projects that power cloud, AI, IoT and edge solutions. We recruit globally and set high standards for excellence; most colleagues work remotely and teams meet periodically in person to align strategy and execution.

Equal opportunity

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer. We foster an inclusive workplace free from discrimination. If you require reasonable accommodation for travel or the hiring process related to a physical disability, please inform us and we will discuss your requirements.

Application notes

Your base pay will depend on location, experience and skills. Certain roles are eligible for additional benefits and rewards, including annual bonuses. When applying, indicate your university grading result (or expected result) and the grading system used. For work history, focus on the last ten years since leaving undergraduate studies and follow guidance on counting companies. Recruitment Privacy Notice and Privacy Policy apply; submission of equal opportunities data is voluntary and will not affect hiring decisions.

Requisition ID: 466

How to apply

Apply via Canonical's careers site for this role: https://canonical.com/careers/6076942