Staff Software Engineer - AI

About Starburst

Starburst is the data platform for analytics, applications, and AI, unifying data across clouds and on-premises to accelerate AI innovation. Organizations—from startups to Fortune 500 enterprises in 60+ countries—rely on Starburst for fast data access, seamless collaboration, and enterprise-grade governance on an open hybrid data lakehouse. Wherever data lives, Starburst unlocks its full potential, powering data and AI from development to deployment. By future-proofing data architecture, Starburst helps businesses fuel innovation with AI.

About the role

Starburst is seeking experienced Java engineers to join our global engineering team and help shape the core of our software. In this role, you’ll contribute directly to the evolution of Starburst, tackling complex challenges across our managed SaaS, open source, and proprietary offerings - an ideal environment for learning and innovation.

As a Staff Software Engineer on our AI team, you'll build the AI Agent and architecture that integrates advanced AI tools with Starburst’s open data lakehouse. Our AI team develops unified, product-agnostic components used across both Starburst Enterprise and Starburst Galaxy. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of AI and data analytics.

As a Staff Software Engineer at Starburst you will:

• Design, develop and operate AI components of Starburst Enterprise Platform and Starburst Galaxy


• Build agents to enhance data discovery and exploration using natural language


• Expose integration points for Starburst Galaxy and Enterprise through protocols like MCP and A2A


• Empower users to interact with LLMs directly through SQL


• Continuously improve our engineering processes, tests, and systems that allow us to scale the code base and productivity of the team


• Collaborate with teams globally and operate in a fast paced environment


• Provide exceptional customer support for both internal and external customers

Some of the things we look for:

• Prior experience developing distributed systems


• Prior experience with large language models or modern ML frameworks


• Extensive software development experience with Java


• Demonstrated experience with software engineering and design best practices.


• Appreciation for creating maintainable, performant, and high quality software as part of a fun, high-performing global team


• Demonstration of ownership, grit, and bias for action - core values at Starburst

Where could this role be based?

Location: Remote, US

Starburst is dedicated to maintaining fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range provided for this role reflects the minimum and maximum targets for candidates across all U.S. locations and could be inclusive of variable compensation, such as commission or bonus. All employees receive equity packages (ISOs) and have access to a comprehensive benefits offering. Actual compensation packages are determined based on relevant skills, experience, education and training, and specific work location. For more information, connect with the recruiting team or Hiring Manager during the process as they can provide more detailed information about the salary range.

Pay Range

$227,850 - $278,250 USD

Build your career at Starburst

All-Stars have the opportunity and freedom to realize their true potential. By building alongside top talent, we’re empowered to take ownership of our careers and drive meaningful change. Anchored in industry-proven technology and unprecedented success, All-Stars are taking on the challenge everyday to disrupt our industry – and the future.

Our global workforce is supported by a competitive Total Rewards program that reflects our commitment to a rewarding and supportive work environment. This includes a variety of benefits like competitive pay, attractive stock grants, flexible paid time off, and more.

We are committed to fostering an intentional, inclusive, and diverse culture that drives deep engagement, authentic belonging, and an exceptional All-Star experience. We believe that diversity of thought, perspective, background and experience will enable us to own what we do, drive our success and empower our All-Stars to show up authentically.

Starburst provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state
or local laws.

#LI-Remote #BI-Remote