Software Engineer - Apache Spark

Overview

At Cloudera, we empower people to transform complex data into clear and actionable insights. With as much data under management as the hyperscalers, we are the preferred data partner for the top companies in almost every industry. Powered by the relentless innovation of the open source community, Cloudera advances digital transformation for the world’s largest enterprises.

Engineering

Mid-Senior level

Cloudera is searching for a visionary Staff Software Engineer with deep expertise in distributed systems to join the Apache Spark Team. You will be at the forefront of innovation, building our next-generation enterprise-grade system designed to conquer data challenges at a massive scale—running Spark on thousands of nodes and crunching petabytes of data for the world’s largest companies. This is your chance to directly influence the open‑source community as a key contributor to Apache Spark while collaborating with a high‑impact, distributed team that includes multiple Spark committers.

If you’re passionate about pushing the boundaries of distributed data processing, come build the impossible with us.

• Pioneer Scalable Solutions:
  Architect, implement, and deliver next‑generation features for Cloudera’s Data Engineering Experience, operating at a massive scale on thousands of production nodes.
• Drive Open‑Source Innovation:
  Be a core contributor to Apache Spark, directly shaping the future of distributed data processing in the open‑source community.
• Build with Modern Stacks:
  Develop high‑performance features using Scala, Java, and Python on modern data platforms.
• Deepen Technical Mastery:
  Gain and apply expert‑level knowledge in core distributed data processing concepts, including:
  • SQL Planners and Optimizers
  • Data layout and modern table formats like Apache Parquet and Iceberg
  • Fault tolerance and resilience in large‑scale distributed systems.
• Own the Technology Stack:
  Develop a deep technical understanding of components across the Cloudera Data Engineering Experience, with a focus on Iceberg and Spark, applying this knowledge to your daily tasks.
• Conquer Large‑Scale Challenges:
  Work hands‑on with massive distributed systems, scaling from hundreds to thousands of nodes in live production clusters.
• Ensure System Integrity:
  Conduct thorough root cause analysis, debug complex system‑level deployment issues, and resolve failures to maintain high system quality.
• Enhance Engineering Velocity:
  Improve internal infrastructure and tooling to streamline development, testing, and deployment processes.
• Collaborate and Influence:
  Work closely with a high‑impact, distributed team and stakeholders to drive product vision and delivery.

• Professional
  
  Experience:
  
  5‑7+ years of experience in professional software development.
• Leadership & Delivery:
  Proven experience leading technical initiatives and delivering complex product enhancements from concept to production.
• Core
  
  Languages:
  
  Strong proficiency in Java, Scala, or other JVM‑based language.
• Systems Expertise:
  Solid experience in the design and development of distributed systems.
• Engineering Excellence:
  Passion for clean coding, attention to detail, and a focus on software quality and maintainability.
• Communication:
  Strong oral and written communication skills for effective collaboration across a distributed team.
• Autonomy:
  Demonstrated ability to research, problem‑solve, and operate independently without constant supervision.
• Growth Mindset:
  An open‑minded approach with a desire to learn new technologies and an unwavering passion for building exceptional products.

• Spark & Ecosystem Experience with using/developing Apache Spark, Apache Iceberg, or other related technologies.
• Distributed Systems Mastery:
  Deep experience with large‑scale, distributed systems design and development, including a strong understanding of scaling, performance optimization, and scheduling.
• SQL Expertise:
  Experience with SQL Planners and Optimizers.
• Open‑Source Contributions:
  Prior experience as a contributor to open‑source projects.

You will tackle complex distributed systems challenges,…