Zed is a fast, collaborative code editor built from the ground up in Rust.

We're looking for a Linux Lead to own Zed's first-class experience on Linux.

In this role, you’ll own the Linux port, shape what “native” means for the diversity of Linux environments, and lead the charge in delivering a polished, performant editor that feels right at home.

Key Responsibilities

- Drive our Linux support to official release, from usability polish to packaging and deployment

- Define the technical vision and quality standards for Zed on Linux

- Ensure a native-feeling experience by working directly with Linux desktop environments, conventions, and APIs

- Solve Linux-specific technical challenges in our Rust codebase

- Create robust testing infrastructure to catch regressions across Linux distributions and desktop environments

- Guide cross-platform architectural decisions with a Linux-first mindset

- Mentor teammates on Linux development best practices and ecosystem nuances

- Stay deeply involved—you'll be using Zed on Linux every day to validate and improve it

Requirements

- Strong Rust experience with a systems programming background

- Daily Linux user with deep familiarity across multiple distributions

- Expertise in Linux graphics and windowing systems (Wayland, X11)

- Experience building and shipping native-feeling Linux desktop applications

- Understanding of Linux UX patterns, user expectations, and toolkit diversity (GTK, Qt, etc.)

- Strong technical leadership and architectural decision-making skills

- Self-directed and comfortable prioritizing independently in a fast-moving environment

- Passionate about creating high-quality Linux-native developer tools

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience with packaging and distribution systems (Flatpak, AppImage, DEB/RPM)

- Familiarity with Linux desktop environments and theming challenges

- Contributions to open-source projects in the Linux or Rust ecosystem

- Knowledge of Linux-specific CI/CD pipelines and build systems

- Prior work on Linux developer tools, IDEs, or editors