About this role.
Canonical is hiring a Senior Software Engineer (Backend) to join the Launchpad team, working remotely within the EMEA region. Launchpad is a platform for managing open-source development projects, including code hosting, bug tracking, and package building. The role involves leading design and architecture decisions, writing API-first Python code, troubleshooting complex issues, and mentoring engineers. Candidates should have deep Python expertise, experience with large-scale web applications and PostgreSQL, and a security-focused mindset. This is a senior-level position with global collaboration and travel 2-4 times per year.
Role DNA
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Job Complexity
4/5Pace & Pressure
4/5Autonomy Level
5/5Communication Load
4/5Salary analysis
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Core skills
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Cover letter sample
Dear Hiring Team,
I am excited to apply for the Senior Software Engineer (Backend) position at Canonical. With extensive experience in Python development and building scalable web services, I am drawn to the opportunity to contribute to Launchpad's mission of enabling open-source collaboration.
My background includes designing API-first systems, optimizing PostgreSQL databases, and leading code reviews to ensure high-quality production code. I have a strong affinity for Linux and Ubuntu, and I am passionate about working in distributed teams where autonomy and communication are key.
I look forward to bringing my technical expertise and mentorship skills to Canonical, helping Launchpad remain a robust and innovative platform for developers worldwide.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Sample interview questions
In my previous role, I designed a microservice-based backend that handled millions of requests per day. I chose a modular architecture with separate services for authentication, data processing, and API gateway. I used PostgreSQL with read replicas for scalable data access and implemented caching to reduce latency. I ensured scalability by load testing, using horizontal scaling, and designing stateless services to allow easy distribution.
I would start by assessing the current architecture and identifying high-risk areas. I would implement incremental improvements, such as adding automated tests and refactoring one component at a time. I would use feature flags to roll out changes gradually and involve the team in code reviews to ensure quality. Communication and monitoring would be key to maintaining stability during the modernization.
I follow security best practices such as input validation, parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection, and using authentication/authorization tokens. I also implement rate limiting and secure headers. Regular dependency scanning and code reviews focused on security help mitigate vulnerabilities. In a distributed environment, I ensure secure communication using HTTPS and proper secrets management.
I schedule regular one-on-one video calls to discuss progress and challenges. I use pair programming sessions and share code review feedback as learning opportunities. I also create documentation and encourage asynchronous communication through tools like Slack or email. I make myself available and foster a culture where asking questions is encouraged.
I have used PostgreSQL extensively, including designing schemas, indexing strategies, and query optimization. In one project, I identified slow queries using EXPLAIN and added composite indexes, reducing response times by 70%. I also implemented partitioning for large tables and used connection pooling to handle concurrent load. I am comfortable with database administration and performance tuning.
Canonical is a leading provider of open source software and operating systems to the global enterprise and technology markets. Our platform, Ubuntu, is very widely used in breakthrough enterprise initiatives such as public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include the world’s leading public cloud and silicon providers, and industry leaders in many sectors. The company is a pioneer of global distributed collaboration, with 1200+ colleagues in 75+ countries and very few office-based roles. Teams meet two to four times yearly in person, in interesting locations around the world, to align on strategy and execution.
The company is founder-led, profitable, and growing.
We are hiring a Senior/Staff/Lead Engineer to join the Launchpad team and take the lead in shaping the future of open-source collaboration.
Launchpad is a platform for managing open-source development projects. It includes code hosting and review, bug tracking, package building, translations, and other facilities used by free and open-source software developers.
As a senior or staff-level engineer passionate about Linux, web services, and scalable development platforms, you’ll have the opportunity to architect and refine a mature, Python-driven system that supports major projects like Ubuntu. Your work will be instrumental in maintaining business-critical services while driving innovation, whether by expanding package-building capabilities, enhancing developer workflows, or modernizing the web UI.
In this role, you’ll empower developers across the world by ensuring that Launchpad remains a well-structured, high-velocity environment for open-source contribution. As part of Canonical’s globally distributed team, you’ll collaborate with some of the brightest minds in open-source technology, building essential infrastructure that enables the next generation of software development. If optimizing large-scale projects, driving continuous improvement, and supporting developers excites you, this is the perfect opportunity to make a lasting impact.
Location: This is a remote role based in the EMEA region. Candidates will be expected to be located within this region.
The role entails
- Influencing and driving design, architecture, and feature decisions across distributed teams, to ensure high-impact solutions.
- Crafting exceptional, API-first Python code with unit tests, that delivering robust, well-structured systems that scale.
- Diagnosing and resolving complex technical challenges, implementing high-quality fixes that enhance performance and reliability.
- Mentoring and uplifting fellow engineers, leading code reviews that reinforce best practices and elevate team excellence.
- Enjoying the freedom of remote work while staying globally engaged. Travelling internationally 2 to 4 times a year to collaborate in key internal discussions and industry-leading external events—expanding your network, sharing expertise, and shaping innovation on a global stage.
What we are looking for in you
- You love technology, working with brilliant people, and solving interesting problems
- You are a strategic thinker who thrives on solving complex challenges and driving innovation
- You are curious, adaptable, and articulate with strong leadership and collaboration skills
- You have proven technical excellence in Python development and delivering high-quality, production-ready code
- You have expertise in maintaining and improving large-scale web applications and database management (PostgreSQL a plus)
- You have a deep understanding of integration, infrastructure, and operations in distributed environments
- You have a security-focused mindset, ensuring robust implementation at every stage of development
- You have a familiarity with Ubuntu as a development and deployment platform
- You have a solid grasp of software packaging systems, including Debian/Ubuntu packages
- You have a Bachelor’s or equivalent in Computer Science, STEM or similar degree
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 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 of software. 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. Most colleagues at Canonical have worked from home since our inception in 2004. Working here is a step into the future and will challenge 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.
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