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Software Engineer - Platform (Backend)

About MotherDuck

Don’t let the quirky name fool you! We’re on a mission to radically transform the data analyst user experience. We think we can empower and delight analysts using a novel cloud architecture built on top of DuckDB, an open source foundation with a vibrant community. Our team is a diverse mix of passionate, collaborative and empathetic data industry veterans from Google, Amazon, Meta, Snowflake, SingleStore, Databricks, and the like. 

Our team is a diverse mix of passionate, collaborative and empathetic data industry veterans from Google, Amazon, Meta, Snowflake, SingleStore, Databricks, and the like. We’re geographically distributed across 4 engineering hubs, spanning the US and Europe.

As a Software Engineer on the Platforms team, you’ll build and optimize the runtime that manages our flock of little DuckDBs hard at work running customer queries. Challenges include dynamic resource allocation, custom storage formats, state management, and observability.

You have a passion for being at the center of many moving pieces, partnering with internal engineering teams, cross functional partners, and customers to weave together a coherent system. You know what it takes to build a distributed system that is reliable, efficient, secure, and observable, but you also know how to launch and iterate in a fast moving environment. You thrive through the full lifecycle of a feature, from clarifying product requirements and key metrics to carrying the pager and investing in making it squawk less.

What you will do

  • Design, build and care for the server-side infrastructure for MotherDuck.

  • Write clean, well-documented, and maintainable code that follows established coding standards and best practices.

  • Monitor and troubleshoot production issues, and work to resolve them in a timely manner.

  • Embrace feedback, empower your teammates, and invest in the team’s success.

  • Go beyond the job description to ensure we build an extraordinary product for our users.

What we’re looking for

  • Seasoned software engineer with a strong focus on backend or full stack development

  • Strong proficiency in TypeScript.

  • Experience designing and building scalable web services and RESTful APIs. 

  • Strong understanding of distributed systems and microservices architecture.

  • Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure.

  • Experience with SQL databases, such as PostgreSQL and DuckDB.

  • Experience with infrastructure management, deployment automation, and scaling.

  • Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

  • Self-directed, able to identify core problems independently while collaborating effectively with a team.

  • Sense of fun and the ability to not take yourself too seriously.

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent work experience.

What we provide

  • Feather-ruffling compensation – competitive salary and stock options so you have a stake in our flock’s success.

  • Top-notch healthcare coverage – 100% paid medical, dental, and vision for employees, plus 80% coverage for dependents (because we care about your whole nest).

  • Unlimited PTO – take the time you need to recharge, explore, or just have a lazy day by the pond.

  • 401k plan – because even ducks need to plan for the future.

  • Legendary company events – we bring the whole flock together twice a year for unforgettable summits in fun locations, plus 1-2 team gatherings a year to keep our bonds strong.

  • Hybrid work environment – Spend three days a week in the office collaborating with the flock, and work from wherever you’re most productive the rest of the time—whether that’s your home office, a coffee shop, or a peaceful lakeside retreat.

Please Apply

Does this role sound appealing to you, but you’re missing some of the requirements or don’t quite think you’re qualified?  Please apply anyway. Research has shown that underrepresented groups in technology often shy away from roles which aren’t a 100% match. We aim to build a diverse team and will strongly consider applicants who bring many of the requirements plus have other experiences which round out their qualifications.

MotherDuck is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. MotherDuck is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and mental disabilities.

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Average salary estimate

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What You Should Know About Software Engineer - Platform (Backend), MotherDuck

At MotherDuck, we’re shaking things up in the data analytics world, and we want you to be a part of it! As a Software Engineer on our Platform team based in Seattle, you’ll take the reins in building and optimizing the runtime that manages our fleet of DuckDBs, handling customer queries with finesse. We’re seeking a seasoned engineer with a knack for backend development to help create a system that’s reliable, secure, and efficient. You’ll dive into the thick of dynamic resource allocation, custom storage formats, and state management while enjoying the camaraderie of a diverse and passionate team. Your daily adventures will involve designing the server-side infrastructure, writing clean and maintainable code, and monitoring production issues to ensure everything runs smoothly. You might also find yourself collaborating closely with various engineering teams and cross-functional partners, using your excellent communication skills to weave together complex system components. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and embrace feedback, MotherDuck is the perfect place to take your skills to the next level. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive healthcare, unlimited PTO, and a hybrid work model—allowing you the flexibility to work where you feel most productive. We believe in rewarding talent and creating a fun environment that keeps our team engaged and excited about our mission to empower data analysts. If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been looking for, don’t hesitate to apply, even if you don’t meet every requirement—we value unique experiences that contribute to our diverse team!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Software Engineer - Platform (Backend) Role at MotherDuck
What are the responsibilities of a Software Engineer - Platform at MotherDuck?

As a Software Engineer - Platform at MotherDuck, you will design, build, and maintain the server-side infrastructure essential for our operations. Your role includes writing clean and maintainable code, monitoring production issues, and troubleshooting them efficiently. You'll collaborate with various teams to successfully implement and iterate on features, ensuring an extraordinary user experience with our cloud architecture.

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What qualifications are needed for the Software Engineer - Platform position at MotherDuck?

To be a strong fit for the Software Engineer - Platform role at MotherDuck, candidates should possess a solid background in backend or full-stack development, with proficiency in TypeScript. A good understanding of distributed systems and experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or Azure is also essential. Additionally, familiarity with SQL databases and infrastructure management will help you excel in this position.

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How does MotherDuck support professional development for Software Engineers?

At MotherDuck, we encourage continuous learning and professional growth for our Software Engineers. We provide opportunities to collaborate with experienced team members from various tech backgrounds, facilitating knowledge sharing and skill enhancement. Furthermore, our hybrid work environment allows you to engage with peers in the office while also having the flexibility to work from wherever suits you best.

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What is the working culture like at MotherDuck for Software Engineers?

The working culture at MotherDuck is vibrant and inclusive, focused on collaboration and innovation. As a Software Engineer, you’ll find a supportive team that values feedback and fosters a sense of fun. Our diverse backgrounds contribute unique perspectives, making every day at MotherDuck an opportunity to learn and grow together.

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What benefits does MotherDuck offer to Software Engineers?

MotherDuck provides an attractive benefits package for Software Engineers, including competitive salaries, stock options, comprehensive healthcare coverage, unlimited PTO, and a 401k plan. We also host legendary company events twice a year, ensuring that our team builds strong connections while having a great time together.

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Common Interview Questions for Software Engineer - Platform (Backend)
Can you describe your experience with designing scalable web services as a Software Engineer?

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you successfully implemented scalable web services. Highlight the technologies you used, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them, as well as the outcomes of your work. This shows your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities in real scenarios.

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What strategies do you use for troubleshooting production issues?

In your response, discuss the systematic approach you take when troubleshooting issues in production. Mention tools you utilize for monitoring and diagnostics, the importance of clear documentation, and the process of collaborating with team members to resolve problems swiftly. This highlights your analytical thinking and teamwork.

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How do you maintain code quality when writing for distributed systems?

Answer by emphasizing the coding standards you follow, such as writing unit tests, ensuring proper documentation, and conducting regular code reviews. Discuss how maintaining clear guidelines aids in quality assurance and fosters teamwork within distributed systems, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

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What experience do you have with cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, or Azure?

Provide details about specific projects where you leveraged cloud services to enhance applications’ performance, scalability, or reliability. Mention any particular services or features you used and the overall impact on your project. This shows your practical experience and comfort with cloud environments.

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How would you describe your problem-solving process when faced with a complex technical challenge?

Explain your approach to breaking down complex problems into manageable parts. Discuss how you seek input from team members or utilize resources to explore various solutions before deciding on the best course of action. This reflects your logical thinking and collaborative nature.

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Can you explain your approach to writing clean and maintainable code?

In your response, stress the importance of following established coding standards and best practices, such as consistent naming conventions, modular design, and thorough documentation. Provide examples of how this has facilitated easier maintenance and onboarding of new team members in past projects.

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How do you ensure effective communication within a distributed team?

Discuss the tools and methods you use to maintain clear and open communication channels, such as regular check-ins, collaborative platforms, and documentation. Emphasize how important clear communication is for team cohesion and project success in a distributed setting.

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What do you enjoy most about working in backend development?

Share specific aspects you enjoy, such as the challenge of optimizing performance or the satisfaction of building a robust infrastructure. Discuss how your passion drives your commitment to delivering high-quality solutions and your willingness to continually learn and adapt in the field.

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How do you stay updated with the latest trends in software development?

Mention specific resources you use, such as online courses, tech blogs, podcasts, or community forums. Highlight how you participate in tech communities or contribute to open-source projects to share knowledge and learn from others in the field.

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What do you think is key to successful teamwork in technology projects?

Explain that successful teamwork hinges on clear communication, mutual respect, and open-mindedness. Share examples of how you’ve worked with teams to navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and ensure everyone contributes their strengths for the project’s benefit.

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EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 2, 2025

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