Ubuntu on WSL Software Engineer

Canonical Group - Houston, TX

Full-time - Entry Level

Remote - Houston, TX

501-1,000 employees

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Ubuntu on WSL Software Engineer role at Canonical involves developing and enhancing the integration of Ubuntu with the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). This position focuses on implementing new features, managing applications in the Microsoft Store, and collaborating with various teams to ensure timely releases. The role requires a strong technical background, excellent communication skills, and a passion for open source technology, particularly in the context of Linux development on Windows.

Responsibilities

• Implement support for new WSL features in Ubuntu
• Closely follow upstream development in WSL
• Manage Ubuntu WSL applications in the Microsoft Store
• Implement support for Ubuntu features on WSL
• Contribute to upstream projects in support of WSL features
• Define, manage and execute test plans
• Work with other teams at Canonical to ensure that Ubuntu is released every 6 months on schedule
• Respond and work to resolve issues raised by end users and customers

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Computer Science or related engineering field
• Exceptional academic track record from both high school and university
• Software development experience in a high-level language - preferably Go, Python or C++
• Confidence to respectfully speak up, exchange feedback, and share ideas without hesitation
• Track record of going above-and-beyond expectations to achieve outstanding results
• Passion for technology evidenced by personal projects and initiatives, preferably on WSL!
• The work ethic and confidence to shine alongside motivated colleagues
• Professional written and spoken English
• Experience with Linux (Debian or Ubuntu preferred)
• Excellent interpersonal skills, curiosity, flexibility, and accountability
• Appreciative of diversity, polite and effective in a multi-cultural, multi-national organisation
• Thoughtfulness and self-motivation
• Result-oriented, with a personal drive to meet commitments

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of Windows, especially system-level capabilities like storage, filesystems, permissions, hyper-v
• Experience with Windows Subsystem for Linux, virtualization, and containers
• Knowledge of PowerShell, Visual Studio, and Azure DevOps
• Knowledge of Ubuntu desktop technologies (GNOME, D-Bus, systemd, Xorg/Wayland, etc.)
• Debian or Ubuntu contributor/developer
• Awareness of agile development methodologies and tools

Benefits

• Performance-driven annual bonus or commission
• Personal learning and development budget of USD 2,000 per year
• Annual compensation review
• Recognition rewards
• Annual holiday leave
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Opportunity to travel to new locations to meet colleagues
• Priority Pass, and travel upgrades for long haul company events