MotherDuck
Software Engineer - Database
$180K–$260K
New York City · Hybrid · Full-time · Posted Oct 30, 2026
About the job
Build and improve the database systems connecting DuckDB’s local execution to MotherDuck’s cloud platform, focusing on performance, distributed execution, and reliability.
What you'll do
- Own projects in the dual-execution stack and develop dynamic cloud resource assignment.
- Improve embedded database performance, distributed execution, and system reliability; diagnose issues using real-world usage patterns.
- Lead cross-functional projects, mentor teammates, document DuckDB expertise, and collaborate with DuckDB Labs.
What they ask for
- Experience building and shipping complex backend systems.
- Fluency in a backend language such as C++, Rust, Java, or a similar systems language, with comfort working close to the metal.
- A foundation in query engines, execution plans, indexing, and performance optimization.
- Experience with cloud infrastructure, networking, and low-latency distributed systems.
Nice to have
- Hands-on experience with DuckDB.
- C++ or Rust experience; the posting also highlights Java.
Pay
$180K – $260K (base salary)
Tools
C++, Rust, Java, DuckDB
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative