Software Engineer - Database
MotherDuck9 days ago
Base Salary
$180k - $260k/yr
Responsibilities
- Own major projects in the dual execution stack for local and cloud DuckDB query processing.
- Build cloud platform capabilities for dynamic resource assignment across workloads and instance sizes.
- Improve embedded database performance, distributed execution, DuckDB internals, and system reliability.
- Lead cross-functional work with frontend, platform, infrastructure, support, and DuckDB Labs teams.
- Debug usage issues, identify architectural challenges, and remove performance bottlenecks.
- Mentor teammates, document expertise, and help improve engineering practices.
Requirements
- Experience building and shipping complex backend systems.
- Fluency in a backend or systems language such as C++, Rust, Java, or a similar language.
- Knowledge of query engines, execution plans, indexing, and performance optimization.
- Experience with cloud infrastructure, networking, and low-latency distributed systems.
- Ability to scope and lead projects involving multiple collaborators and cross-functional dependencies.
- Experience mentoring peers and contributing to collaborative engineering environments.
- Hands-on DuckDB experience is strongly preferred.
- Interest in open-source collaboration and working with DuckDB Labs is preferred.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and stock options are provided.
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage is 100% paid for employees and 80% covered for dependents.
- Flexible paid time off is provided.
- 401(k) plan is available.
- Company events are held twice a year.
- The role is ideally based in New York City, with remote opportunities on the East Coast.
- The work environment is flexible, with most of the week in the office and the remainder worked from elsewhere 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.