The Role
We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to lead the design, architecture, and development of impactful open source projects at Canonical. In this role, you will take on technical leadership responsibilities, mentor team members, and contribute directly to high-quality code in a variety of languages such as Golang, Rust, Python, C/C++, or TypeScript/React.
This is an exceptional opportunity to work on meaningful open source technologies with a collaborative global team, while shaping your own impact on the future of software infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the architecture and design of significant open source projects.
- Write high-quality code in Go, Rust, Python, C/C++, or TypeScript/React.
- Debug and resolve complex technical issues across the stack.
- Contribute to and maintain high standards of technical documentation.
- Display technical leadership internally and in open source communities.
- Mentor and guide the career progression of engineering team members.
- Collaborate with a globally distributed team in a remote-first environment.
- Travel globally twice a year for team sprints and company events.
What We're Looking For
- Exceptional academic background, with strong performance in high school and university.
- A degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or another STEM field—or a compelling alternative path with relevant achievements.
- Proven experience and technical leadership in engineering teams.
- Strong expertise in at least one core language: Go, Rust, Python, or C.
- A track record of delivering high-quality code and innovative solutions.
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail, accountability, and a passion for performance.
- Curiosity, flexibility, and ability to thrive in a remote, distributed environment.
Nice-to-Have Experience
Depending on the team fit, experience in any of the following will be an advantage:
- Container technologies (LXD, Docker, Kubernetes)
- Distributed systems and concurrent computing
- Software performance engineering and optimization
- Security (e.g., fuzzing, threat modeling, audits)
- Cross-compilation and build systems
- Public cloud platforms or OpenStack
- Debian/Ubuntu packaging and Linux systems programming
- Scalable web services, REST/gRPC APIs
- Web or Flutter front-end development
- SQL and NoSQL data store technologies
- Advanced testing and quality engineering practices
What We Offer
- A remote-first work culture with a globally distributed team
- Twice-yearly company sprints in exciting international locations
- Annual personal learning and development budget of USD $2,000
- Annual performance review and compensation adjustment
- Performance-driven annual bonus or commission
- Recognition rewards and career growth opportunities
- Generous annual leave, maternity/paternity benefits
- Employee Assistance Program and wellness platform
- Priority Pass membership and travel upgrades for long-haul travel
