Systems PhD - Software Engineer
- Pay
- $150,000 – $190,000 per year
- Location
- Mountain View, CA · On-site
- Job type
- Full-time
- Level
- Mid-level
- Education
- Doctorate
- Listed
- 30 days ago
Skills & highlights for this role
- query optimization
- distributed systems
- storage systems
- vectorized execution
P-1299
Databricks is radically simplifying the entire data lifecycle, from ingestion to generative AI and everything in-between. We're doing it cross-cloud with a unified platform, currently serving over 10k customers, processing exabytes of data/day on 15+ million VMs, and growing exponentially.
To make it happen we're building multi-cloud systems at every corner of the data ecosystem, from query engines, vector databases, training pipelines, and storage systems, down to the infrastructure that allows them to scale like auto-sharders, caches, and load balancers, just to name a few. We also build and support the tooling, languages, and stacks that bring it together. Basically, we do it all.
The space we work in and the problems we solve are massive, complex, and very deep (our published work on Lakehouse, Delta lake, and Photon are a testament to that). We're looking for practitioners who are eager to work with the best in industry to push the boundaries of what's possible for our customers. If you're truth seeking, data driven, and love to operate from first principles (head fake: our core values), then Databricks is the place for you.
As a part of the Database Engine team, there are opportunities to design and implement in many areas that leapfrog existing state-of-the-art systems:
- Query compilation & optimization
- Distributed query execution and scheduling
- Vectorized engine execution
- Data security
- Resource Management
- Transaction coordination
- Efficient storage structures (encoding, indexes)
- Automatic physical data optimization
What we look for
- PhD in databases or systems
- A passion for database systems, storage systems, distributed systems, language design, and/or performance optimization
- Motivated by delivering customer value and impact
Pay Range Transparency
Databricks is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The pay range(s) for this role is listed below and represents the expected salary range for non-commissionable roles or on-target earnings for commissionable roles.
Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, depth of experience, relevant certifications and training, and specific work location. Based on the factors above, Databricks anticipates utilizing the full width of the range.
The total compensation package for this position may also include eligibility for annual performance bonus, equity, and the benefits listed above. For more information regarding which range your location is in visit our page here.
Local Pay Range $150,000—$190,000 USD
Benefits
At Databricks, we strive to provide comprehensive benefits and perks that meet the needs of all of our employees. For specific details on the benefits offered in your region
Compliance
If access to export-controlled technology or source code is required for performance of job duties, it is within Employer's discretion whether to apply for a U.S. government license for such positions, and Employer may decline to proceed with an applicant on this basis alone.
About Databricks
Databricks is the Data and AI company. More than 20,000 organizations worldwide - including adidas, AT&T, Bayer, Block, Mastercard, Rivian, Unilever, and 70% of the Fortune 500 - rely on the Databricks Data + AI Platform to build and scale data and AI apps, analytics and agents. Headquartered in San Francisco with 30+ offices around the globe, Databricks offers a unified platform that includes Genie, Lakebase, Agent Bricks, Lakeflow, Lakehouse, and Unity Catalog. To learn more, follow Databricks on LinkedIn, X, YouTube, and Instagram.
Equal opportunity and legal notices
At Databricks, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone can excel. We take great care to ensure that our hiring practices are inclusive and meet equal employment opportunity standards. Individuals looking for employment at Databricks are considered without regard to age, color, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other protected characteristics.
From Databricks's careers page, first listed on Rolev.ai on October 10, 2026. Rolev.ai is not the employer.
How Rolev.ai helps with this application
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Common questions
What is the salary for the Systems PhD - Software Engineer role at Databricks?
The Systems PhD - Software Engineer posting at Databricks states compensation of $150,000 – $190,000 per year. It is listed as a full-time position. Final pay may depend on location, experience, and interview evaluation on Databricks's official career site.
Where is the Systems PhD - Software Engineer job at Databricks located?
This Systems PhD - Software Engineer position at Databricks is located in Mountain View, CA (On-site). Always check Databricks's application page for specific state eligibility or relocation policies.
What qualifications are required for Systems PhD - Software Engineer at Databricks?
For the Systems PhD - Software Engineer role, Databricks highlights a doctorate; experience with query optimization, distributed systems, storage systems, vectorized execution. Rolev.ai can score your existing resume against these requirements and show any skill gaps before you apply.
How do I apply for the Systems PhD - Software Engineer position at Databricks?
This listing links directly to Databricks's Greenhouse application page. You can apply directly on Databricks's site, or use Rolev.ai to check your resume fit, generate a zero-hallucination tailored resume and cover letter for this posting, and autofill the Greenhouse application form in 1 click with the Rolev.ai Chrome extension. You always review the form and press Submit yourself.