Principal Software Engineer – Search Algorithms, Elasticsearch

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Spearhead initiatives within Elasticsearch to develop a top-tier vector database solution that excels in speed and relevance for search.

• Create new search functionalities and resolve bugs in Elasticsearch while enhancing code readability.

• Design or implement algorithms and data structures, engaging closely with the operating system and hardware as necessary.

• Collaborate with a globally distributed team dedicated to enhancing Elasticsearch vector search capabilities.

• Act as a specialist in Elasticsearch vector similarity implementation, refining search relevance.

• Engage with community members worldwide on issues and pull requests, including triaging and handoff processes.

• Write idiomatic, modern Java code.

⛳️ Requirements

• Demonstrated professional experience with vector similarity and vector databases.

• Proficiency in using HNSW, IVF, or other pertinent algorithms and libraries within large-scale search platforms.

• Strong expertise in core Java, including standard-library data structures, concurrency constructs, and lambdas.

• Ability to work independently and lead projects from inception to completion.

• Experience in technical design and collaboration with other engineers to develop components.

• Background in collaborative development, encompassing giving and receiving feedback on code, methodologies, and APIs.

• Familiarity with data storage technologies such as Elasticsearch, Solr, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Cassandra.

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• Proven experience utilizing AI to enhance development, troubleshoot complex systems, and optimize code while taking ownership of final outcomes.

• Capability to collaborate across functions and teams, transitioning between projects, codebases, or teams in accordance with business priorities.

• Proficient in driving decisions and achieving results in a distributed team through asynchronous, direct, and transparent communication.

• Bonus: Experience in building with Elasticsearch.

• Bonus: Experience with open-source projects, source control workflows, and continuous integration.

• Bonus: Experience with data storage technology.

• Bonus: Experience in designing, leading, and managing cross-functional initiatives.

🏝️ Benefits

• Base salary compensation without any variable compensation component.

• Eligibility to participate in Elastic's stock program.

• Company-matched 401k plan with dollar-for-dollar matching up to 6% of eligible earnings.

• Competitive pay based on the work performed rather than previous salary.

• Health coverage available for employees and their families in various locations.

• Flexible locations and schedules offered for numerous roles.

• Generous vacation days allocated each year.

• Matching contributions up to $2000 (or local currency equivalent) for financial donations and community service.

• Up to 40 hours each year dedicated to volunteer projects.

• A minimum of 16 weeks of parental leave provided.