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Principal Software Developer - Search Algorithms - Elasticsearch

Elastic· Platform - Elasticsearch
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RemoteCA$154k - CA$243.6kfull-timePosted 1mo ago

About the role

Principal software engineering role focused on enhancing vector similarity search functionality within Elasticsearch, including design and implementation of new vector search features, enhancements to existing vector search, and bug resolution.

Responsibilities

  • Lead initiatives within Elasticsearch to produce an industry-leading vector database offering, supplying unparalleled speed and relevance in search.
  • Contribute to Elasticsearch full time, building new search features and fixing intriguing bugs, including potential invention of new algorithms or data structures and proximity to OS/hardware.
  • Work with a globally distributed team of engineers focused on vector search capabilities of Elasticsearch.
  • Become an expert on how Elasticsearch implements vector similarity to support search relevance and drive improvements.
  • Collaborate with community members worldwide on issues and pull requests, triaging or handling them as needed.
  • Write idiomatic modern Java; Elasticsearch is 99.8% Java.

Qualifications

  • Professional experience with vector similarity and vector databases, and familiarity with HNSW, IVF, or other relevant algorithms and libraries on search platforms at scale.
  • Strong skills in core Java, data structures, concurrency, and experience with lambdas.

Skills

Required:Vector similarity / vector databasesJava
Nice to have:Distributed collaboration / async work

Benefits

  • Stock program eligibility
  • RRSP with dollar-for-dollar matching up to 6% of eligible earnings
  • Health coverage for you and your family in many locations
  • Flexible calendar with location and schedule options
  • Generous vacation days
  • Donation matching up to $2000 or local currency
  • Up to 40 hours per year for volunteer projects
  • Parental leave minimum 16 weeks
  • Diversity and inclusion commitment
Last updated Sep 3, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.
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