Before a company can release a new product, they need to develop it. Oftentimes, if they don't have the right people in-house, they'll also need to hire one or more people to come in and help with the development. A job listing is one of the best ways to get the word out about the type of person the company is looking for and what this person would need to be able to do to fill the position. Unfortunately, a public job listing of any kind is also the quickest way to let the world in on the fact that you're working on something new.

Earlier on, a job posting on Valve's website more or less confirmed rumors that the company is working on its own gaming hardware. Now, another posting has revealed that Canonical is likely working on its own smartphone OS. Engadget points to a posting over on Canonical's site that advertises a desire for a "Business Development Manager (Ubuntu Phone OS)." As if that wasn't specific enough, the posting itself leaves little room for doubt about the company's plans for the successful applicant:

"Canonical is seeking a business development lead to engage and develop strong relationships with industry partners in the run up to the launch of Ubuntu as a smartphone operating system," the post reads. "The successful candidate will be an outstanding professional in the smartphone ecosystem with experience of engaging with both handset manufacturers and telco operators. This is an extraordinary opportunity and we are looking for someone who combines an outstanding track record of working with industry influencers and decision makers, an enthusiasm and aptitude for technology and a deep understanding of the dynamics of the market."

Anyone looking to apply for the position must have seven or more years of experience in the smartphone field, and the ability to build strong relationships between multiple departments (including sales, marketing, business development, engineering and product management) among other things. They will be responsible for establishing a commercial ecosystem around Ubuntu as a smartphone OS, driving awareness of Ubuntu's smartphone strategy across key industry decision makers, and successfully launching the Ubuntu smartphone ecosystem.

Canonical hasn't commented on the job posting but it certainly looks like Apple, Microsoft, and Google can expect some Ubuntu-flavored competition in the smartphone arena sometime soon.