Principal Software Engineer II - Metadata at Snowflake: Bellevue, WA

Role Overview

As a Principal Software Engineer II in the Metadata team at Snowflake, you will be at the forefront of building the next generation Metadata Platform. Your work will directly impact Snowflake's capabilities across Iceberg, unstructured data, and enterprise features. You will design, develop, and support large-scale distributed systems, tackling challenges related to metadata management, scalability, and performance. This role involves architectural ownership, mentoring junior engineers, and influencing the product roadmap to ensure Snowflake delivers the best technology for its customers.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Principal Software Engineer II will be dynamic and challenging. Here’s a glimpse:

• Architecture and Design: You’ll spend time designing and refining the architecture of Snowflake’s metadata systems, ensuring they are scalable, fault-tolerant, and efficient.
• Development and Coding: You'll be coding in Java (or a similar language) to build and enhance the core components of the metadata platform. This includes implementing new features, optimizing existing code, and ensuring high code quality.
• Problem Solving: You’ll analyze and troubleshoot complex issues related to performance, scalability, and availability, devising creative solutions to overcome these challenges.
• Collaboration: You'll work closely with other engineers, product managers, and stakeholders to align on priorities, define requirements, and ensure the successful delivery of new features and improvements.
• Mentoring: You will mentor junior engineers, providing guidance and support to help them grow their skills and contribute effectively to the team.
• Research and Innovation: You’ll stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in distributed systems and metadata management, and explore opportunities to incorporate them into Snowflake’s platform.

Why Bellevue, WA?

Bellevue, Washington is a vibrant city known for its thriving tech industry and high quality of life. Here’s why working in Bellevue is a great choice:

• Tech Hub: Bellevue is home to numerous tech companies, creating a dynamic and innovative environment.
• Quality of Life: The city offers excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities.
• Proximity to Seattle: Bellevue is just a short drive from Seattle, providing easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
• Natural Beauty: The area is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Career Path

The Principal Software Engineer II role at Snowflake offers a clear path for career growth. You can advance your career by:

• Technical Leadership: You can become a technical lead, taking on more responsibility for the design and implementation of complex systems.
• Architect Role: You can move into an architect role, focusing on the overall architecture and strategy of Snowflake’s metadata platform.
• Management: You can transition into a management role, leading a team of engineers and guiding the development of new features and products.
• Specialization: You can specialize in a particular area of metadata management, becoming a subject matter expert in that domain.

Salary & Benefits

Snowflake offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Competitive Salary: Salaries for Principal Software Engineer II roles typically range from $160,000 to $300,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Equity: Employees receive stock options, allowing them to share in the company’s success.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans are available.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off and holidays are provided.
• Parental Leave: Paid parental leave is offered to new parents.
• Retirement Plan: A retirement plan with company match is available.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for professional development and training are provided.
• Wellness Programs: Wellness programs and resources are available to support employee health and well-being.

Innovation Culture

Snowflake fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. Here’s what you can expect:

• Impactful Work: You’ll be working on projects that have a direct impact on the company and its customers.
• Collaborative Environment: You’ll be working with a team of talented and passionate engineers who are committed to building the best data platform in the world.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: You’ll be working with the latest technologies and tools, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn and grow your skills.
• Open Communication: Open communication and transparency are valued, and employees are encouraged to share their ideas and feedback.

How to Apply

To apply for the Principal Software Engineer II - Metadata position at Snowflake, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Snowflake Careers page.
2. Search for the Principal Software Engineer II - Metadata position in Bellevue, WA.
3. Click on the job posting and review the requirements and responsibilities.
4. Click the "Apply Now" button and complete the online application form.
5. Attach your resume and cover letter.
6. Submit your application.

FAQ

1. What is the Snowflake Metadata team responsible for?

   The Metadata team owns Snowflake’s metadata systems that enable customers to query, modify, and manage their data efficiently. They develop distributed systems, transaction frameworks, and asynchronous systems.

2. What kind of projects will I be working on?

   You will be working on projects related to Iceberg, unstructured data, cross-region replication (Snowgrid), data sharing, and data marketplace, contributing to Snowflake's enterprise capabilities.

3. What are the key skills required for this role?

   Key skills include 15+ years of experience in designing large-scale distributed services, expertise in database systems internals, strong computer science fundamentals, and fluency in Java or a similar language.

4. What is the work environment like at Snowflake?

   Snowflake offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation is encouraged and employees are given opportunities to make a significant impact.

5. What opportunities are there for professional development?

   Snowflake provides numerous opportunities for professional development, including training programs, mentorship, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies.

6. How does Snowflake support work-life balance?

   Snowflake offers flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off, and wellness programs to support employees' work-life balance.

7. What are the benefits of working in Bellevue, WA?

   Bellevue offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a thriving tech industry. It's also close to Seattle, providing access to more amenities and opportunities.

8. Can you describe Snowflake's culture in three words?

   Impact, Innovation, Collaboration.

9. What does Snowflake look for in potential candidates?

   Snowflake seeks candidates with strong technical skills, a passion for innovation, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

10. How does Snowflake ensure operational readiness of its services?

    Snowflake has robust monitoring and alerting systems, automated testing, and a dedicated team of engineers who are responsible for ensuring the reliability and performance of its services.