Percona is seeking a Principal Software Engineer with deep expertise in MySQL internals, ideally in the optimizer, InnoDB, or Group Replication.
This is a senior individual contributor role for an engineer who thrives on solving hard problems, is motivated by technical ownership, and is passionate about open-source innovation.
The candidate should have a strong track record of developing new features, can deliver under tight deadlines, and is open to learning new technologies, including AI/ML integrations with databases.
The role involves working on the Percona Server for MySQL, Percona XtraBackup, Percona XtraDB Cluster, and Oracle MySQL.
This is a remote role, allowing work from home while collaborating with a globally distributed team using modern online tools.
Occasional travel, typically once per year, may be expected for team meetups or company events.
A stable, high-speed internet connection is required.
Flexible working hours are offered, along with necessary equipment, including a laptop and internet access support.
Requirements:
The candidate must have 10+ years of hands-on C/C++ development experience, with at least 5 years working on database internals.
A deep understanding of MySQL internals is required, with specialization in at least one of the following: Query Optimizer, InnoDB Storage Engine, or Group Replication.
A demonstrated history of shipping complex new features (not just bug fixes or backports) is essential.
Experience delivering projects under tight deadlines while maintaining code quality is necessary.
A solid grasp of DBMS internal algorithms such as those used in query optimization, B-tree indexing, multiversion concurrency control, and ARIES crash recovery is required.
Experience with high concurrency threading models, atomics, and locking primitives is needed.
Knowledge of various programming and scripting languages such as BASH, Perl, and Python is required.
Proficiency with tools like gdb and strace is necessary.
Proficiency with git, GitHub, and source code management methodologies is required.
Experience with client/server or distributed network communication systems is essential.
A passion for clean code, performance tuning, and algorithmic efficiency is necessary.
Interest or experience in applying AI/ML concepts to databases or development workflows is a bonus.
Familiarity with Linux internals, distributed systems, and threading/concurrency challenges is required.
Benefits:
Percona offers flexible work hours and provides all necessary equipment for remote work.
Employees receive funds for career development, including external training, certifications, and conferences.
Ongoing connectivity allowances are provided to support remote work.
The opportunity to participate in an equity incentive plan is available.
Benefits supporting a healthy work/life balance include The Percona Adventure Team, Work-from-Anywhere, FlowDays, FryDays, and overall flexibility.
The company supports social responsibility through the PAVE volunteering program and Women Transforming Technology initiatives.