Canonical Hiring | Graduate Software Engineer | Freshers

Role: Graduate Software Engineer, Open Source and Linux
Location: Remote (Asia Pacific, including Bangalore, India)
Experience Required: Freshers / 0–2 years
Eligible Batches: 2024 & 2025 Graduates
Company: Canonical

Introduction

Canonical, the organization behind Ubuntu, is a global pioneer in the open-source ecosystem. With a presence in more than 75 countries, Canonical has transformed industries such as AI, cloud computing, IoT, data science, and engineering innovation. Its distributed-first culture means employees primarily work remotely, with opportunities to travel internationally for team sprints.

The Graduate Software Engineer program is designed for fresh graduates eager to launch their careers in Linux, open source, and enterprise-grade software. If you are passionate about coding, enjoy solving complex technical challenges, and want to make a global impact, this opportunity is worth exploring.

Job Responsibilities

As a Graduate Software Engineer at Canonical, you will:

• Write high-quality, resilient, and performant code in languages such as Python, Rust, C/C++, Golang, JavaScript, or Java.
• Work on Linux system-level projects, including kernel development, device drivers, and container technologies.
• Contribute to packaging, toolchains, firmware, and cloud-native solutions.
• Shape product roadmaps and collaborate during global engineering sprints.
• Engage with open-source communities through forums, GitHub, and code reviews.
• Build awareness of enterprise-grade requirements, including security, scalability, and performance.
• Collaborate with international teams and travel twice a year for in-person events.

Educational Qualification

• Degree Required: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Business Informatics, Mathematics, Electronics, or related STEM disciplines.
• Must have completed 15 years of formal education (10+2+3).
• Strong academic record throughout high school and university.
• Evidence of passion for programming beyond coursework (open-source projects, GitHub repositories, or personal projects).

Skills Required

• Proficiency in at least one programming language: Python, C/C++, Rust, Golang, Java, or JavaScript.
• Familiarity with Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, or Arch.
• Strong understanding of algorithms, data structures, and debugging techniques.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote-first environment.

Good-to-have skills:

• Contributions to upstream open-source projects.
• Knowledge of Linux packaging or kernel-level development.
• Leadership qualities, presentation skills, and technical writing ability.

Salary Details

Canonical offers competitive global compensation. Salaries vary by geography, but in India, the expected package for Graduate Engineers ranges between ₹8 – ₹15 LPA (approx.).

Other benefits include:

• Performance-based bonuses and recognition awards.
• International travel for company sprints.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance initiatives.
• Professional development budget for certifications and learning.
• Paid parental leave and flexible remote work culture.

Note: Salary ranges are indicative and may differ depending on skills, performance, and location.

Application Process

Candidates must apply through the official Canonical Careers portal only.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the Canonical Careers page.
2. Search for Graduate Software Engineer – Open Source and Linux.
3. Select the location as Asia Pacific (Remote).
4. Fill in academic, personal, and project details.
5. Upload an updated resume and a tailored cover letter.
6. Submit your application and await further communication.

⚠️ Important Note: Avoid applying through third-party sites. Always use Canonical’s official careers page for authentic updates.

Interview Process

Canonical follows a structured, multi-stage recruitment process:

1. Application Screening – Academic achievements, resume details, and project contributions are reviewed.
2. Online Assessment – Coding test covering problem-solving, algorithms, and Linux fundamentals.
3. Technical Interviews (2–3 rounds) –
   • Topics: data structures, Linux internals, debugging, networking, and distributed systems.
   • Hands-on exercises: debugging issues, explaining open-source contributions, or coding challenges.
4. HR/Behavioral Interview – Evaluates communication skills, teamwork, and cultural fit.
5. Final Selection – Based on cumulative performance across all stages.

Resume Tips for Applicants

To stand out in a competitive hiring process:

• Highlight Linux/Ubuntu experience (coursework, internships, or open-source contributions).
• Include GitHub links showcasing personal or academic projects.
• Mention certifications (Linux Foundation, cloud certifications, or Red Hat).
• Quantify impact in projects (e.g., “Reduced system boot time by 20% through optimized C++ code”).
• Keep the resume concise (1 page preferred for freshers).

Benefits of Working at Canonical

• Remote-first workplace with flexible work culture.
• Global team collaboration with peers across 75+ countries.
• Learning and development budget (approx. USD $2,000 annually).
• Twice-yearly international sprints for knowledge sharing and networking.
• Work-life balance with no mandatory weekend work.
• Clear career progression pathways in engineering, product, or leadership.

Why Choose Canonical?

For graduates who love open source, Canonical offers:

• The chance to contribute to Ubuntu, one of the world’s most popular Linux distributions.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies, from Raspberry Pi devices to cloud and supercomputers.
• Opportunities to grow into roles like Kernel Developer, Cloud Engineer, or Open Source Maintainer.
• A global stage to showcase your engineering talent and make a real impact.

Application Link: Click Here

Important Notes

• This post is for informational purposes only.
• Salary figures are estimated and subject to change.
• Always apply through Canonical’s official careers page.
• Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly in Linux, coding, and open-source concepts before applying.

Final Thoughts

The Graduate Software Engineer role at Canonical is a dream opportunity for freshers in the Asia Pacific region. With a competitive salary (₹8 – ₹15 LPA), remote-first flexibility, and exposure to global teams, Canonical offers an unmatched career start in the open-source world. If you’re ready to shape the future of Linux and open-source innovation, this is the role to aim for.