Elastic

Principal Software Engineer - Vector Search - Elasticsearch

Elastic · Switzerland

Posted 20 days ago

or apply directly on Elastic's site. We never take the application ourselves.

Is this posting real?

This role has been open
20 days
Elastic's roles stay open a median of 32 days
Reposted
No
Salary listed
No
0% of Elastic's roles list one
Ghost-job risk at Elastic
low
0 stale, 5 reposted of 372 open
Hiring momentum
495 roles opened in the last 90 days
↑ up vs. the prior 90 days
Last confirmed on the employer's board
2026-09-17

Measured from postings appearing on and disappearing from Elastic's own greenhouse board since 2026-08-03. Full hiring picture for Elastic.

About this role

The Principal Software Engineer will focus on enhancing vector similarity search functionality within Elasticsearch, contributing to the design and implementation of new features and resolving bugs. The role involves leading initiatives to create a top-tier vector database offering, collaborating with a globally distributed team, and writing modern Java code. The engineer will also engage with the community on issues and pull requests, providing expertise in vector similarity and search relevance.

Our read on this posting3.6out of 5
benefits
4/5
freshness
4/5
career value
5/5
role clarity
5/5
pay transparency
0/5

Scored from the posting itself — how clearly the role is described, how much it says about pay and benefits, and how recently it was listed. Not a judgement of Elastic as an employer.

What you need

  • Experience implementing novel techniques in vector similarity on a search platform or in academic research
  • Professional experience with vector similarity and vector databases, using algorithms like HNSW or IVF
  • Strong skills in core Java and familiarity with data structures and concurrency constructs
  • Ability to work autonomously and guide projects from start to finish
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proven track record of using AI to accelerate development and optimize code

Nice to have

  • Experience building with Elasticsearch
  • Familiarity with open source projects and source control workflows
  • Experience with various data storage technologies
  • Experience designing and leading cross-functional initiatives

What you get

  • Competitive pay based on work performance
  • Health coverage for you and your family in many locations
  • Flexible locations and schedules for many roles
  • Generous vacation days each year
  • Financial donation matching up to $2000
  • Up to 40 hours each year for volunteer projects

Worth weighing

  • No salary listed
  • Role requires a high level of autonomy and self-direction
  • Collaboration is primarily remote and asynchronous, which may be challenging for some candidates

Summarised from Elastic's posting. Read the full original.

Listed by Elastic on their greenhouse job board, last confirmed open on 2026-09-17. PitchMeAI is not the employer.

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