Intermediate Backend Engineer, Database Automation

About the Role

The Database Automation team is responsible for developing and enhancing the frameworks, patterns, and tooling that keep Gitlab's application datastores scalable, healthy, and safe across Gitlab.com and thousands of self-managed instances. As an Intermediate Backend Engineer, you will play a key role in this team, working on projects such as SQL Traffic Replay Tooling and Background Operations Framework.

What You Will Do

• Develop and iterate backend features and data frameworks that make it safe and efficient to work with data at scale across Gitlab.com and self-managed deployments.
• Work with product management, UX, frontend, infrastructure, software delivery, and analytics teams to design and ship high-performing, reliable solutions.
• Review and improve database-related changes from other engineers and external contributors to ensure data integrity, safety, and performance across diverse environments.
• Design, build, and maintain tooling and guardrails such as SQL traffic replay and background operations frameworks to proactively detect and remediate scalability, performance, and data health issues.
• Research, design, and implement improvements to database performance, scalability, and data health, including areas like soft delete strategies and database migration testing.
• Document database best practices, anti-patterns, and data architecture guidance so developers can make informed, consistent choices.
• Develop solutions for database upgrade paths and migration strategies that balance competing demands for data availability, consistency, and performance.
• Collaborate with the Data Engineering organization to gain hands-on experience with PostgreSQL and Ruby on Rails in an all-remote, highly team-based environment.
• Participate in on-call rotations to ensure the reliability and uptime of Gitlab's application datastores.

What We Are Looking For

• 3+ years of experience in backend development with a focus on data architecture, scalability, and performance.
• Strong knowledge of PostgreSQL, database design, and data modeling.
• Experience with Ruby on Rails, or a similar web framework, and a willingness to learn.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to debug complex issues and optimize system performance.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working with cross-functional teams.
• A passion for innovation, efficiency, and collaboration, with a drive to make a meaningful impact on the company and its users.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies and version control systems such as Git.

Nice to Have

• Experience with cloud-based infrastructure, such as AWS or Google Cloud.
• Knowledge of containerization technologies, such as Docker.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and tools, such as CI/CD pipelines and security testing.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and equity package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous PTO policy and flexible working hours.
• Remote work stipend and home office setup support.
• Professional development opportunities, including conference attendance and training programs.
• Access to a global community of engineers and developers, with opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

• Make sure to highlight your experience with PostgreSQL, Ruby on Rails, and data architecture in your resume and cover letter.
• Be prepared to discuss your approach to debugging complex issues and optimizing system performance during the interview.
• Show a passion for innovation, efficiency, and collaboration, and be prepared to give examples of how you've driven impact and growth in your previous roles.
• Familiarize yourself with Gitlab's values and culture, and be prepared to discuss how you align with them.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview, such as what a typical day looks like in the role, or what opportunities there are for professional development and growth.