Principal Software Engineer – Vector Search, Elasticsearch

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

📋 Description

• Spearhead Elasticsearch projects to deliver a top-tier vector database solution that prioritizes speed and search relevance.

• Develop new Elasticsearch search functionalities and address existing bugs.

• Enhance code readability and, when necessary, create or apply algorithms and data structures.

• Collaborate closely with the operating system and hardware as needed.

• Work together with a globally distributed team of skilled engineers specializing in Elasticsearch vector search.

• Act as a subject matter expert on vector similarity implementation, fostering improvements through research and feedback.

• Engage with community members internationally on issues and pull requests, including triage, delegation, and resolution.

• Write idiomatic, contemporary Java.

⛳️ Requirements

• Developed innovative techniques in vector similarity on a widely-used search platform or advanced academic research in vector similarity information retrieval.

• Professional experience in vector similarity and vector databases.

• Familiarity with algorithms and libraries such as HNSW, IVF, or others relevant to large-scale search platforms.

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

• Capability to operate independently and oversee projects from inception to completion, including technical design and cooperation with engineers.

• Comfortable participating in collaborative development, conducting code reviews, providing feedback, handling APIs, and engaging in asynchronous internet collaboration.

• Experience with data storage technologies like Elasticsearch, Solr, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Cassandra.

• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.

• Proven success in leveraging AI to enhance development processes, debug intricate systems, and optimize code while taking ownership of final results.

• Ability to collaborate across functions and teams, seamlessly transitioning between projects, codebases, or teams according to business needs.

• Capacity to influence decisions and deliver results in a distributed team environment through asynchronous, direct, and transparent communication.

• Posting in English; no specific language requirement has been stated.

• An export license may be necessary for individuals located in or nationals of specific sanctioned countries or regions.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on your contributions here rather than previous salary.

• Health coverage available for you and your family in various locations.

• Flexibility in crafting your schedule and location for many roles.

• A generous allocation of vacation days each year.

• Matching contributions up to $2000 (or local currency equivalent) for charitable donations and services.

• Up to 40 hours annually for volunteer activities.

• Minimum of 16 weeks of parental leave.