Rust Engineering Lead - Open Source and Linux at Canonical




Apply Now

Description


About Us:

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, is a pioneering force in open source software and operating systems. Our flagship platform Ubuntu powers cutting-edge initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. We serve the world's leading public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry leaders across sectors. As a globally distributed company with 1000+ colleagues across 70+ countries, we embrace remote work while gathering teams in-person 2-4 times yearly in diverse locations worldwide for strategic alignment.

We are profitable, founder-led, and expanding.

Job Overview:

We're seeking Rust Engineering Leads at all experience levels to spearhead Rust adoption across Canonical's product suite, starting with Ubuntu. We envision Rust as the future of system-level services, representing a natural evolution from traditional C/C++ implementations. Our mission is to reimagine Linux systems' foundations with Rust as the catalyst for change - from system firmware and embedded software to bootloaders, kernel operations, input handling, and desktop environments.

Additionally, we aim to establish Ubuntu as the premier platform for Rust development, providing comprehensive tooling and capabilities for cutting-edge open source and enterprise development.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement robust, well-tested, and documented Rust software
  • Champion Rust adoption within Canonical and upstream projects
  • Identify and prioritize opportunities for Rust implementation
  • Debug and resolve user-reported issues
  • Participate in code reviews and architectural planning
  • Collaborate on technical specifications with community and team members
  • Drive engineering and operational improvements
  • Deploy and maintain team-developed services (as needed)
  • Contribute to product success through technical advocacy

Required Qualifications:

  • Outstanding academic record (high school and university)
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/STEM (or equivalent experience)
  • Proven expertise in Rust software development on Linux
  • Deep understanding of Linux at the system level
  • Excellent written and spoken English
  • Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset
  • Ability to work independently in a distributed environment
  • Willingness to travel twice yearly for company events (up to two weeks each)

Senior Role Additional Requirements:

  • Experience building, deploying, and operating distributed systems and APIs

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ubuntu development experience
  • Familiarity with Canonical technologies (LXD, MicroK8s, SnapD, IoT, Juju, Ubuntu Core, Ubuntu Pro)
  • Performance engineering and security expertise

Benefits:

  • Distributed work environment with bi-annual in-person team sprints
  • $2,000 annual learning and development budget
  • Annual compensation review
  • Recognition rewards
  • Annual holiday leave
  • Parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Travel opportunities with Priority Pass and long-haul travel upgrades
  • Location-based competitive compensation
  • Performance-driven annual bonus or commission

Location:
Remote positions available in all time zones

Canonical is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We evaluate all applications fairly, valuing diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds in our mission to create superior products and work environment.


Location:
Home based - Africa, Nairobi


Tags



Other Rust Jobs: