Staff Software Engineer - Query Execution
Develops and optimizes MongoDB's core query execution engine, converting logical plans to efficient physical operators for transactional and analytical workloads. Requires 10+ years in query engines/database internals, C++ expertise, and technical leadership.
About the job
Candidate Profile
- 10+ years of hands-on, professional experience in query engine development or database internals
- Experience with building production-level code with a large user base, robust design structure and rigorous code quality
- Degree in Computer Science or similar field, or equivalent practical experience, with strong competencies in data structures, algorithms, and software design/architecture
- Experience with large code bases written in C++ or another systems programming language. You'll need to trace down defects, estimate work complexity, and design evolution and integration strategies as we rewrite different components of the system
- Proven track record of technical leadership: demonstrated ability to define and drive roadmaps for a component over the medium term
- Passion for the theory and practice of database query engines, as well as hands-on or academic experience in the database domain
Position Expectations
- Play a key role in defining the 12-month roadmap for Query Execution by researching state-of-the-art systems and leveraging your deep knowledge of industry trends to provide technical vision and direction
- Take direct responsibility for delivering on long-term (6-18 month) goals to innovate in high-performance query execution and other areas of responsibility, co-ordinating initiative-level strategy and personally writing well-tested, production-ready C++ code
- Advise management on key decisions related to our architecture and processes, and collaborate with stakeholders across the company on large initiatives
- Influence and grow team members through active mentoring, coaching, and leading by example, helping to cultivate a strong talent bench through interviewing and knowledge sharing
Skills
C++, Query Engine Development, Database Internals, Data Structures, Algorithms, Software Architecture, MongoDB, Distributed Systems, Systems Programming
Similar jobs
Backend Engineering jobs
MongoDB
San Francisco, CA
Staff-level engineer shaping the architecture and technical direction of MongoDB’s Search and Vector Search infrastructure. The role requires 10+ years in data management or distributed infrastructure, strong distributed-systems expertise, and the ability to lead complex cross-team initiatives.
Kong
San Francisco, CAArchitects and leads development of Kong Identity’s globally distributed, multi-tenant identity platform, including token management, federation, security, compliance, and developer tooling. Requires 7+ years building production identity systems and deep expertise in modern identity protocols and high-scale infrastructure.
GitLab
United StatesBuild and operate Go-based automation and a PostgreSQL-as-a-service platform for high-throughput, always-on production systems. The role requires deep PostgreSQL production experience, backend development expertise, infrastructure automation, and staff-level technical leadership.
GitLab
Bengaluru, India
Provides cross-team technical leadership for large backend initiatives, modular architecture, production operations, and AI-assisted engineering adoption. The role requires deep backend architecture experience, monolith modernization expertise, strong written influence, and mentoring ability.
Nango
United StatesStaff Backend Software Engineer responsible for designing and scaling developer infrastructure, APIs, and backend services while shaping product direction and collaborating directly with customers. Requires extensive backend experience, Node.js proficiency, and a strong focus on developer experience.