Staff Software Engineer, Database Reliability

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and evolve scalable, secure, and observable database systems across cloud-native (e.g., AWS RDS, DynamoDB, Aurora) and traditional relational platforms (e.g., SQL Server).
• Define and implement patterns for schema governance, data lineage, quality assurance, and access control across services and teams.
• Lead modernization efforts by replacing legacy systems with infrastructure-as-code, automated provisioning, and scalable platform patterns.
• Build reusable modules, tooling, and guardrails that help teams self-serve safely while meeting compliance, reliability, and cost-efficiency goals.
• Lead the end-to-end detection and response for database incidents—taking rapid, decisive action to minimize risk to users, data integrity, and business operations.
• Drive post-incident analysis and systemic improvements to raise the bar for operational excellence in data systems.
• Partner with developers, SREs, platform teams, and data engineers to align architecture and execution with business needs and reliability standards.
• Mentor and influence engineers across teams by sharing knowledge, reviewing designs, and modeling high standards for data reliability.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience building and operating production-grade data infrastructure.
• Deep fluency in cloud-native databases (e.g., RDS, DynamoDB, Redshift, Aurora) and relational systems (e.g., SQL Server, PostgreSQL).
• Proven experience in designing high-throughput, low-latency, and fault-tolerant data architectures.
• Strong hands-on experience with infrastructure-as-code (Terraform, CDK) and observability platforms (e.g., dashboards, SLOs, alerting).
• A track record of building tools and patterns that enable self-service and reduce operational overhead.
• Experience designing and enforcing systems for schema evolution, regulatory compliance, and data governance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead initiatives, mentor peers, and shape engineering direction across functions.

Nice to Have

• Experience with data governance, quality, and lifecycle management.
• Experience with modernization of legacy systems.
• Strong influence across organizations through strategy, clarity, and technical credibility.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible, hybrid work environment at our convenient Soho location.
• Unlimited Vacation.
• 100% paid employee health benefit options (including medical, dental, and vision).
• Commuter Benefits.
• 401(k) with employer funded match.
• Corporate wellness programs with Headspace and Peloton.
• Sabbatical leave (for employees with 5+ years of service).
• Competitive paid parental leave and fertility/family planning reimbursement.
• Cell phone reimbursement.
• Catered lunch every day along with beverages and snacks.
• Employee Resource Groups and ZocClubs to promote shared community and belonging.
• Great Place to Work Certified.