Software Engineer - Database

The role

The Database team owns the core server and client extension logic to let DuckDB run in the cloud. You will drive projects in dual execution, resource assignment, and system reliability using C++.

What you will do

• Own major projects in the dual execution stack
• Build a cloud platform that dynamically assigns resources
• Lead cross-functional work with frontend, platform, and infrastructure teams
• Push the state of the art in embedded database performance, distributed execution, and DuckDB internals
• Deepen DuckDB expertise and share it through mentorship and documentation
• Work with the support team to debug issues and prioritize improvements
• Improve systems holistically by spotting architectural challenges and clearing bottlenecks
• Mentor teammates and help raise the bar for engineering practices
• Work with DuckDB Labs to align on APIs and shape DuckDB

Required qualifications

• Built and shipped complex backend systems
• Fluent in a backend language like C++, Rust, Java, or similar systems languages
• Foundation in query engines, execution plans, indexing, and performance optimization techniques
• Worked with cloud infrastructure, networking, and building low-latency distributed systems
• Can scope and lead projects that span multiple collaborators and cross-functional dependencies
• Comfortable mentoring peers

Nice to have

• C++ and Rust
• Java engineer
• Hands-on experience with DuckDB

Benefits

• Competitive salary and stock options
• 100% paid medical, dental, and vision for employees
• 80% coverage for dependents
• Flexible PTO
• 401k plan
• Company events twice a year
• Flexible work environment

About the company

MotherDuck is building a cloud-hosted version of DuckDB to unify local development with cloud operations. The team is a mix of data industry veterans.