Software Engineer - Database
MotherDuck1 month ago
Base Salary
$180k - $260k/yr
Responsibilities
- Own major projects in the dual execution stack so DuckDB queries run seamlessly locally or in the cloud.
- Build cloud platform capabilities for dynamically assigning resources across workloads and instance sizes.
- Lead cross-functional work with frontend, platform, and infrastructure teams.
- Advance embedded database performance, distributed execution, and DuckDB internals.
- Share DuckDB expertise through mentorship and documentation.
- Work with support to debug issues, learn from usage patterns, and prioritize improvements.
- Identify architectural challenges and remove bottlenecks proactively.
- Mentor teammates and improve engineering practices across the team.
- Collaborate with DuckDB Labs to align APIs and help shape DuckDB’s future.
Requirements
- Experience building and shipping complex backend systems.
- Fluency in a backend or systems language such as C++, Rust, Java, or a similar language, with comfort working close to the metal.
- Foundation in query engines, execution plans, indexing, and performance optimization.
- Hands-on DuckDB experience is highly preferred.
- Experience with cloud infrastructure, networking, and low-latency distributed systems.
- Ability to scope and lead projects spanning multiple collaborators and cross-functional dependencies.
- Ability to mentor peers and contribute to a collaborative, high-agency engineering environment.
- Interest in open-source communities and direct collaboration with DuckDB Labs.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and stock options are provided, with no compensation figures stated.
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus 80% dependent coverage.
- Flexible paid time off and a 401(k) plan.
- Company summits twice a year and 1–2 team gatherings annually.
- Flexible work environment based ideally in New York City or remotely on the East Coast, with most of the week in the office and the remainder flexible as agreed with the manager.
About MotherDuck
MotherDuck builds a cloud data warehouse and analytics platform that extends DuckDB for developers and data teams. The service blends local DuckDB workflows with managed cloud storage and compute, enabling SQL and AI agent–driven analysis for internal and product analytics. Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Seattle, the company is privately held and collaborates with DuckDB’s creators.