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Query Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · Hybrid

$143K - $189K/yr

Design, develop, test, and deliver core database features across query processing, storage, replication, and transactions in YugabyteDB. * Write high-quality C/C++ code (and other languages as needed ...

Senior Software Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Design, develop, test, and deliver core database features across query processing, storage, replication, and transactions in YugabyteDB. * Write high-quality C/C++ code (and other languages as needed ...

Familiarity with execution engines and query-processing internals (e.g., Velox, vectorized execution), enabling effective optimization across runtime-generated and host code for high-performance data ...

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Expertise in data management, data cleaning, distributed systems, database storage engines, query processing and query optimization, and applied data science * Knowledge of statistics and machine ...

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Query Processing information

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How much do query processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for query processing in the United States is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is query processing?

Query processing refers to the series of steps a database management system (DBMS) takes to interpret and execute a user's query. This process involves parsing the query, translating it into a suitable internal representation, optimizing it for efficient execution, and finally retrieving the requested data from the database. Effective query processing is crucial for ensuring fast and accurate results, especially in large and complex databases. It typically includes techniques like indexing, query rewriting, and using execution plans to improve performance.

How does a Query Processing professional typically collaborate with database administrators and software developers?

Query Processing professionals play a vital role in optimizing how databases handle and execute queries. They work closely with database administrators to analyze performance bottlenecks, suggest indexing strategies, and ensure efficient data retrieval. Collaboration with software developers is also common, as these professionals help design application queries that are both effective and resource-efficient. This teamwork ensures that end-users receive fast, accurate results while maintaining the stability and scalability of database systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Query Processing Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Query Processing Specialist, you need a solid understanding of database management, information retrieval, and data analysis, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with SQL, search algorithms, data warehousing solutions, and query optimization tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you interpret data needs and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for efficiently handling and optimizing queries to ensure accurate, timely access to data and support business decision-making.

What is the difference between Query Processing vs Data Analyst?

AspectQuery ProcessingData Analyst
Required CredentialsKnowledge of databases, SQL, and data retrieval techniquesDegree in statistics, data science, or related fields; SQL knowledge often required
Work EnvironmentDatabase systems, data warehouses, IT departmentsBusiness environments, analytics teams, reporting tools
Industry UsageIT, software development, database managementFinance, marketing, healthcare, and other sectors relying on data insights

Query Processing focuses on retrieving and managing data efficiently within databases, often involving technical skills like SQL and database management. Data Analysts interpret data, generate reports, and provide insights for decision-making. While both roles work with data, Query Processing is more technical and system-oriented, whereas Data Analysts focus on analysis and business applications.

More about Query Processing jobs
What cities are hiring for Query Processing jobs? Cities with the most Query Processing job openings:
What states have the most Query Processing jobs? States with the most job openings for Query Processing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Query Processing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,822 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer

YugabyteDB

Sunnyvale, CA • Hybrid

$143K - $189K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Senior Software Engineer - Core Database

Location: Sunnyvale, United States
Team: Core Database
Position Level: Senior Software Engineer

Role Overview

As a Senior Software Engineer working on YugabyteDB's core database engine, you will play a critical role in designing, building, and scaling the foundational components of a globally distributed SQL database - spanning query processing, storage, replication, and transactions.

You will work on some of the most challenging problems in distributed systems, including query planning and execution, consistency, durability, fault tolerance, performance, and scalability. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams across query, platform, and cloud, you will help ensure YugabyteDB remains robust, reliable, and high-performing at scale.

This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy deep systems work and want to shape the core architecture of a high-performance, fault-tolerant distributed database.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and deliver core database features across query processing, storage, replication, and transactions in YugabyteDB.
  • Write high-quality C/C++ code (and other languages as needed) with strong automated test coverage; actively participate in design discussions and code reviews.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve correctness, stability, and performance issues across:
    • Distributed query planning and execution
    • Storage and transactional subsystems
  • Improve database scalability and throughput as cluster sizes, data volumes, and transaction rates grow.
  • Identify and implement performance optimizations across the stack, including:
    • Query plan optimization, batching, and parallelism
    • Storage engine and replication efficiency
    • End-to-end latency and throughput improvements
  • Build and enhance core operational capabilities
  • Contribute to the open-source YugabyteDB project, helping strengthen its distributed SQL capabilities and reliability.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (query, storage, platform, cloud) to deliver cohesive, high-quality features.
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to best practices in distributed systems, database internals, and performance engineering.
Required Qualifications
  • 5-8 years of software engineering experience
  • Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science (or related field), or equivalent practical experience.
  • Strong programming skills in C/C++ (or similar systems language)
  • Solid understanding of:
    • Data structures and algorithms
    • Operating systems fundamentals
    • Distributed systems basics
  • Experience in at least one of:
    • Database internals (query processing, execution engines)
    • Storage systems (LSM trees, WAL, compaction, etc.)
    • Distributed systems (replication, consensus, transactions)
  • Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience building or working with distributed systems, including distributed storage, transactional engines, or consensus protocols.
  • Strong understanding of database internals, with familiarity in areas such as:
  • PostgreSQL or other relational database engines
  • Query processing or storage engine design
  • Contributions to open-source systems or database projects are a strong plus.

We work in a hybrid model, with the team together in our Sunnyvale office 2-3 days per week.

Work Authorization

This position is based in the U.S. Candidates must have authorization to work in the United States. Sponsorship may be considered only under specific circumstances aligned with current regulatory requirements.

We feel strongly about equal pay for equal work, and transparency in compensation is one way to help achieve that. The cash compensation for this role is market competitive, with a range of USD 170,000-USD 200,000, inclusive of variable/incentive for some roles. As well as equity (when applicable), and benefits including health plans, retirement plans, and unlimited paid time off (PTO). The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. The actual pay will vary based on factors including experience, qualifications, and skill level.

#LI-HYBRID

Due to the Proclamation, "Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers", which went into effect on September 21, 2025, at this time we are no longer able to sponsor new H-1B visa petitions filed after September 21, 2025 for new hires. We are still able to consider candidates who require H-1B extensions, changes of employer, or other types of work authorization.