Software Engineer - Database

The role

The Database team owns the core server and client extension logic to bridge DuckDB with the cloud. You will work in C++ to push boundaries in embedded database performance, distributed execution, and user experience.

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

• Opportunity to participate and contribute to DuckDB
• Competitive salary
• Stock options
• Flexible time off
• A good pension plan
• Legendary company events once a year
• Hybrid work environment
• Great lunch every day

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.