Senior Software Engineer - Query Engine, Database Internals - Elasticsearch

About the Role

Elastic is looking for a Senior Software Engineer to join the Elasticsearch Analytical Engine team. This globally-distributed, remote team is responsible for building new analytics capabilities in Elasticsearch’s latest aggregation framework, powered by the new ES|QL query language.

What You Will Be Doing

• Contribute to the Elasticsearch codebase, focusing on data-intensive features and performance optimizations.
• Research and implement efficient data structures and algorithms.
• Collaborate with distributed teams across time zones using asynchronous communication (GitHub, Slack, Zoom).
• Act as a subject matter expert for specific areas of the Elasticsearch engine.
• Engage with the open-source community by triaging issues and reviewing pull requests.
• Write idiomatic, modern Java code.

What You Bring

• Strong proficiency in core Java, including data structures, concurrency, and modern features (lambdas).
• Experience with software systems engineering and database internals.
• A passion for performance optimization and algorithmic efficiency.
• Ability to work autonomously and drive projects from design to implementation.
• Experience with data storage technologies (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Cassandra, Solr).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective asynchronous collaboration.
• Proven track record of using AI to accelerate development and debug complex systems.

Bonus Points

• Prior experience building with or contributing to Elasticsearch.
• Background in search and information retrieval systems.
• Experience designing and leading cross-functional initiatives.
• Familiarity with open-source workflows and CI/CD pipelines.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and stock program eligibility.
• Company-matched 401k (up to 6%).
• Flexible work schedules and locations.
• Generous vacation policy and parental leave (minimum 16 weeks).
• Financial support for charitable donations and volunteer time.