Principal Software Engineer (Vector Search)

TL;DR

Principal Software Engineer (Java/Vector Search): Enhancing vector similarity search functionality within hirify.globalsearch and Lucene with an accent on performance, relevance, and the design of new search features. Focus on implementing novel algorithms and data structures to produce an industry-leading vector database.

Location: Spain (Flexible locations and schedules offered)

Salary: €80,400—€127,200 EUR

Company

hirify.global is a Search AI company that provides cloud-based solutions for search, security, and observability, used by over 50% of the Fortune 500.

What you will do

• Lead initiatives to develop an industry-leading vector database offering within hirify.globalsearch.
• Build new search features and resolve complex bugs in the core codebase.
• Invent and implement novel algorithms and data structures for vector similarity.
• Collaborate with a globally distributed team of expert engineers across continents.
• Engage with the open-source community to triage and handle issues and pull requests.
• Write idiomatic, modern Java for the hirify.globalsearch platform.

Requirements

• Proven experience implementing novel vector similarity techniques on search platforms at scale.
• Professional expertise with vector databases and algorithms such as HNSW or IVF.
• Strong proficiency in core Java, including concurrency constructs and the standard library.
• Ability to work with high autonomy, guiding projects from technical design to implementation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for asynchronous collaboration.
• Experience with data storage technologies like Solr, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Cassandra.

Nice to have

• Previous experience building applications with hirify.globalsearch.
• Active involvement in open-source projects and familiarity with CI/CD workflows.
• Experience designing and owning cross-functional initiatives.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive pay based on role and impact rather than previous salary.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their families in many locations.
• Flexible location and schedule options to support work-life balance.
• Generous annual vacation allowance.
• Company matching for financial donations and service up to $2,000.
• Minimum of 16 weeks of paid parental leave.