Cloud DuckDB Backend Engineer - C++, Remote Europe

MotherDuck Corp.; United States; Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Hybrid work environment

Flexible time off

Pension plan

Job summary

MotherDuck is hiring for a senior backend role focused on the DuckDB codebase and cloud integration. You’ll work on the core server and client extension logic, enabling seamless operation across local and cloud environments in C++/Rust with a focus on performance and reliability.

You’ll lead major projects, collaborate across teams, mentor peers, and engage with the open-source community and DuckDB Labs to shape future APIs and capabilities.

Qualifications

• You've built and shipped complex backend systems and know what great looks like.
• You’re fluent in C++, Rust, Java, or similar systems languages and comfortable close to the metal.
• A good foundation in query engines, execution plans, indexing, and performance optimization.
• Hands-on experience with DuckDB is a huge plus regardless of level.
• You’ve worked with cloud infrastructure, networking, and low-latency distributed systems.
• You can scope and lead cross-functional projects with clear decisions.

Responsibilities

• Own major projects in our dual execution stack for local and cloud runs.
• Help build a cloud platform that dynamically allocates resources for varying workloads.
• Lead cross-functional work with frontend, platform, and infrastructure teams.
• Push the state of the art in embedded DB performance and distributed execution.
• Mentor teammates and share knowledge through documentation and code reviews.
• Collaborate with DuckDB Labs and the wider community to shape APIs.

Skills

C++

Rust

Java

Distributed systems

Backend development

Performance optimization

Job description

MotherDuck is hiring for a senior backend role focused on the DuckDB codebase and cloud integration. You’ll work on the core server and client extension logic, enabling seamless operation across local and cloud environments in C++/Rust with a focus on performance and reliability.

You’ll lead major projects, collaborate across teams, mentor peers, and engage with the open-source community and DuckDB Labs to shape future APIs and capabilities.