Senior Database Engineer

About SurrealDB

SurrealDB (backed by leading VCs) is the fastest-growing database company of all time and one of the fastest-growing source-available/open-source software products. Our mission is to enable the world to access data in the simplest and most powerful way and become the ultimate database and cloud platform for tomorrow's technology.

We've established a multicultural team from around the globe, welcoming members from all backgrounds and age groups, spanning from 18 to 72 years! As we continue to grow, our commitment to building a diverse team remains a top priority. We foster a culture where everyone is encouraged to share their passions outside work with one another and within our community meet ups. Our team includes opera singers, actors, poets, and sports enthusiasts!

If you want to innovate daily, collaborate with amazing people and continuously learn new things, read on!

About the role

SurrealDB is actively seeking a Senior Software Engineer specialising in Query Language (QL) development. This role is crucial for driving the evolution and optimisation of our query language capabilities within our industry-leading database product. Whether you are based in London or prefer a remote working arrangement, your expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of SurrealDB Cloud's query language functionalities. You will play a key role in designing, developing, and refining our QL features to meet the growing demands of our users and to stay ahead in the technology curve.

What you will do

• Lead the design and development of new features and enhancements for SurrealDB's query language, core database engine and indexing engine.
• Collaborate with the product and engineering teams to understand user needs and translate them into robust and efficient functionality.
• Optimise existing features for performance, scalability, and ease of use.
• Contribute to the development of query optimisation techniques and algorithms.
• Work closely with the documentation team to ensure accurate and user-friendly documentation of query language and core database features.
• Participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback and ensuring high-quality code standards.
• Stay up-to-date with emerging trends and technologies in database engines and query languages and apply this knowledge to improve SurrealDB.
• Engage with the SurrealDB community, gathering feedback and insights to continuously refine the query language.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's overall skill development.

About you

• Proven experience as a Senior Software Engineer with a focus on databases or similar roles.
• Strong background in database technologies and/or query language development, with a particular focus on the core database rather than ancillary products or distributed systems.
• Proficient in programming languages including Rust, C, or Go.
• Experience with query optimisation and understanding of database internals.
• Familiarity with distributed systems and cloud-based database architectures.
• Ability to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Passion for technology and staying abreast of industry trends and best practices.
• Flexible and adaptable to work in a fast-paced environment and with remote teams.

We understand that each candidate brings a unique set of skills and experiences, and we encourage applicants to apply even if you do not meet all the qualifications listed in the job description.

We have a global workforce, and for anyone working outside of the London office, we offer remote working in the UK. For any London-based team members, we have a hybrid working approach where we work and collaborate together in our Oxford Street office three days a week. If you require any additional flexibility, please let our hiring team know as part of the recruitment process.