# Embedded & Desktop Linux Systems Engineer – Optimisation Remote from🌐 AnywhereAnnual salary Undisclosed Salary information is not provided for this position. Check our [Salary Directory](https://jobicy.com/salaries.md) to estimate the average compensation for similar roles.Department [Software Engineering](https://jobicy.com/categories/engineering.md) Employment type Full Time, Job posted21 Jul 2026Apply before21 Aug 2026Experience level Senior Views / Applies 52 / 2 [About company](https://jobicy.com/company/canonical-ltd.md) * Share About [Canonical Ltd.](https://jobicy.com/company/canonical-ltd.md) Trusted open source for enterprises [Computer Software](https://jobicy.com/company-category/software.md) * 2004 Actively Hiring Verified job posting This job post has been [manually reviewed](https://jobicy.com/tools/help-center/employee/how-does-jobicy-verify-the-legitimacy-of-remote-job-listings.md) for authenticity and compliance. ### AI Summary This role focuses on optimizing Ubuntu for the latest silicon hardware, spanning the entire Linux stack from kernel to GUI. The engineer will work with major silicon companies to integrate next-gen features, act as a technical lead on complex customer engagements, and help customers integrate their applications and build OS images. The position requires expertise in Linux packaging, C/C++, open source communities, and a holistic approach to platform optimization. It is a fully remote, globally distributed role with a fast-paced, problem-solving environment. Ideal candidates are self-motivated, resourceful, and experienced with embedded systems, IoT, or server technologies. ### Role DNA Job Complexity Easy Hard Pace & Pressure Relaxed Fast-paced Autonomy Level Guided Full Ownership Communication Load Independent Highly Collaborative AI Insight Requires deep expertise across the full Linux stack, complex integration with silicon partners, and the ability to solve challenging problems under pressure, making this a high-difficulty role. ### Salary Analysis Median Highly Competitive $120,000US Market $80k – 160k 0 $176k AI Insight No explicit salary range was provided. Based on market data for Embedded & Desktop Linux Systems Engineers, the estimated median salary is $120,000 USD, with a typical range of $80,000 to $160,000. This role offers competitive compensation likely aligned with industry standards for senior engineering positions. ### Core Skills Required [Linux](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Linux.md) [Ubuntu](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Ubuntu.md) [Embedded Systems](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Embedded+Systems.md) [C/C++](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=CC.md) [Kernel](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Kernel.md) [IoT](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=IoT.md) [DevOps](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=DevOps.md) [System Optimization](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=System+Optimization.md) [Open Source](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Open+Source.md) [Networking](https://jobicy.com/jobs?search_keywords=Networking.md) ### Cover Letter Sample Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply for the Embedded & Desktop Linux Systems Engineer - Optimisation role at Canonical. With over [X] years of experience working across the full Linux stack—from kernel to GUI—I have a strong track record of optimizing Ubuntu for cutting-edge silicon and delivering first-class user experiences. My background includes deep expertise in C/C++, Linux packaging (Debian, RPM, Yocto), and collaborating with open-source communities, which aligns perfectly with the requirements of this position. In my previous role, I led integration efforts for IoT and server platforms, working closely with silicon partners to enable next-generation features. I am particularly drawn to Canonical's mission to build a better platform with free software and am confident that my skills in system optimization and customer engagement would contribute to your ambitious vision. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can help drive Ubuntu's success on diverse hardware platforms. Sincerely, [Your Name] Copy ### Sample Interview Questions Describe your experience with Linux kernel optimization for embedded systems.I have worked on kernel tuning for ARM-based SoCs, focusing on reducing boot time and improving power management. For example, I configured kernel configs to disable unused subsystems and used ftrace to identify performance bottlenecks, resulting in a 20% improvement in boot speed.How would you approach debugging a performance issue in the graphics stack on Ubuntu?I would start by gathering metrics using tools like perf, strace, and sysprof. Then, isolate the issue by testing with different graphics drivers (Mesa, AMD, NVIDIA) and comparing behavior. If it's a driver bug, I would file a detailed bug report with logs and work with the community to patch it.Explain your experience with containerization and how it applies to embedded Linux.I have used Docker and LXC to create isolated environments for development and testing. In embedded contexts, I've deployed Snap packages on Ubuntu Core for IoT devices, leveraging strict confinement for security and transactional updates.Can you give an example of a complex customer engagement where you acted as a technical lead?I led a project integrating Ubuntu with a new server platform from a major silicon vendor. My responsibilities included defining the technical roadmap, coordinating with their engineers on firmware and driver enablement, and delivering a validated OS image that met performance and reliability SLAs.How do you stay up-to-date with Linux kernel and open-source community developments?I regularly follow LKML, attend kernel maintainer meetings, and contribute to relevant mailing lists. I also experiment with new kernel features in my lab and participate in Linux Plumbers Conference to learn about upcoming changes. Work across the full Linux stack from kernel through GUI to optimise Ubuntu, the world’s most widely used Linux desktop and server, for the latest silicon. The role is a fast-paced, problem-solving role that’s challenging yet very exciting. The right candidate must be resourceful, articulate, and able to deliver on a wide variety of solutions across PC and IoT technologies. Our teams partner with specialist engineers from major silicon companies to integrate next-generation features and performance enhancements for upcoming hardware. Location: This is a Globally remote role ## What your day will look like * Design and implement the best Ubuntu integration for the latest IoT and server-class hardware platforms and software stacks * Work with partners to deliver a delightful, optimised, first class Ubuntu experience on their platforms * Take a holistic approach to the Ubuntu experience on partner platforms with inputs on technical plans, testing strategy, quality metrics * Participate as technical lead on complex customer engagements involving complete system architectures from cloud to edge * Help our customers integrate their apps, SDKs, build device OS images, optimize applications with Ubuntu Core, Desktop and Server * Work with the most advanced operating systems and application technologies available in the enterprise world. Joining Canonical, you will partner with bright minds from all over the world, and work with an exciting set of new technologies in a fast growing company with a truly unique and ambitious vision to build a better platform with free software. You will work with customers on exciting IoT and server platforms and technologies, built to support different verticals: from robots to data centers, from telco to retail. ## What we are looking for in you * You love technology and working with brilliant people * You have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, STEM or similar * You have experience with Linux packaging (Debian, RPM, Yocto) * You have experience working with open source communities and licences * You have experience working with C, C++ * You can work in a globally distributed team through self-discipline and self-motivation. ## Additional skills that you might also bring * Experience with graphics stacks * Good understanding of networking – TCP/IP, DHCP, HTTP/REST * Basic understanding of security best practices in IoT or server environments * Good communication skills, ideally public speaking experience * IoT / Embedded experience – from board and SoC, BMCs, bootloaders and firmware to OS, through apps and services * Some experience with Docker/OCI containers/K8s ## What we offer you Your base pay will depend on various factors including your geographical location, level of experience, knowledge and skills. In addition to the benefits above, certain roles are also eligible for additional benefits and rewards including annual bonuses and sales incentives based on revenue or utilisation. Our compensation philosophy is to ensure equity right across our global workforce. In addition to a competitive base pay, we provide all team members with additional benefits, which reflect our values and ideals. Please note that additional benefits may apply depending on the work location and, for more information on these, you can ask in the later stages of the recruitment process. * Fully remote working environment – we’ve been working remotely since 2004! * Personal learning and development budget of 2,000USD per annum * Annual compensation review * Recognition rewards * Annual holiday leave * Parental Leave * Employee Assistance Programme * Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues at ‘sprints’ * Priority Pass for travel and travel upgrades for long haul company events ## About Canonical Canonical is a pioneering tech firm that is at the forefront of the global move to open source. As the company that publishes Ubuntu, one of the most important open source projects and the platform for AI, IoT and the cloud, we are changing the world on a daily basis. We recruit on a global basis and set a very high standard for people joining the company. We expect excellence – in order to succeed, we need to be the best at what we do. Canonical has been a remote-first company since its inception in 2004.​ Work at Canonical is a step into the future, and will challenge you to think differently, work smarter, learn new skills, and raise your game. Canonical provides a unique window into the world of 21st-century digital business. ## 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.](https://canonical.com/careers/diversity/identity) #LI-remote Show more [Apply now >](https://jobicy.com/jobs/149567-embedded-desktop-linux-systems-engineer-optimisation.md) > Annual salary information is not provided for this position. Explore salary ranges for similar roles in our [Salary Directory ›](https://jobicy.com/salaries.md) * ![Upload CV](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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) ### Upload your resume now To unlock remote work opportunities and be discovered by global employers. This job listing has been manually reviewed by the Jobicy Trust & Safety Team for compliance with our posting guidelines, including verification of the company's legitimacy, accuracy of job details, clarity of remote work policy, and absence of misleading or fraudulent content. ## How to apply ## See a few more Similar Software Engineering remote jobs * ![Canonical Ltd. logo](https://jobicy.com/data/server-nyc0409/galaxy/mercury/2025/06/b4d068a9-221-1.png) Canonical Ltd. ### [Graduate Software Engineer, Open Source and Linux, Canonical Ubuntu](https://jobicy.com/jobs/149581-graduate-software-engineer-open-source-and-linux-canonical-ubuntu.md) Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. 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