Principal Software Engineer – Vector Search, Elasticsearch

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

📋 Description

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

• Dedicate full-time efforts to Elasticsearch by developing new search functionalities and addressing bugs.

• Enhance code clarity and, when necessary, innovate or apply algorithms and data structures.

• Collaborate closely with the operating system and hardware when required.

• Engage with a globally distributed team of skilled engineers focused on vector search capabilities.

• Act as a specialist in the implementation of Elasticsearch vector similarity and enhance search relevance.

• Work with global community members on issues and pull requests, including triage, handoff, and resolution.

• Write modern Java code that adheres to idiomatic practices.

⛳️ Requirements

• Developed innovative techniques in vector similarity on a search platform with a significant user base or advanced academic research in vector similarity information retrieval.

• Professional experience with vector similarity and vector databases.

• Familiarity with HNSW, IVF, or other relevant algorithms and libraries on scalable search platforms.

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

• Capability to work independently and manage projects from inception to completion.

• Experience in collaborating on code, methodologies, and APIs.

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

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

• Proven ability to leverage AI to expedite development, debug intricate systems, and optimize code while taking ownership of final outcomes.

• Ability to collaborate across functions and teams, transitioning between projects, codebases, or teams based on business priorities.

• Capacity to drive decisions and outcomes within a distributed team through asynchronous, direct, and transparent communication.

• Bonus: Experience with Elasticsearch.

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

• Bonus: Familiarity with data storage technology.

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

🏝️ Benefits

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

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

• Flexibility to shape your schedule with adaptable locations and timings for many roles.

• Generous vacation days provided each year.

• Elastic matches up to $2000 (or local currency equivalent) for financial contributions and service.

• Up to 40 hours annually to dedicate to volunteer projects you are passionate about.

• A minimum of 16 weeks of parental leave.

• Commitment to equal opportunity and an inclusive culture.

• Accessibility accommodations available during the application or recruitment process.