Software Engineer, Internship, Query Engines

About the Role

We are a software engineering team applying open-source data technologies to some of the world's hardest and most important problems. We build the data processing infrastructure that underpins Palantir Foundry.

• You will work deep inside systems that handle computation representation, query plan optimization, operator execution, and efficient data read/write.
• We build on and extend Apache Spark, Apache DataFusion, and Apache Iceberg.
• You will take on real problems in production systems, such as writing new planning rules, adding capabilities to native execution engines, or making large tables faster to scan.
• You will see your work through design, code review, testing, and release.
• Deliver correctness, compatibility, and predictable performance.

Technologies We Use

• Java, Scala, Rust, and Python
• Apache Spark, Apache DataFusion, Apache Comet, and Velox for data processing and query execution
• Apache Iceberg for table management and catalog interoperability
• Apache Arrow and Apache Parquet for in-memory data processing and columnar storage
• Gradle and Cargo for builds
• GitHub for collaboration

Note: Prior experience with these technologies is not required; you are expected to learn them.

What We Value

• Curiosity about how data systems work (query optimizers, execution operators, file formats, distributed processing).
• A high bar for correctness and a willingness to deeply understand issues.
• Comfort navigating across languages, services, and layers of the stack.
• A practical, measurement-grounded approach to performance.
• Eagerness to learn, ask questions, and incorporate feedback.
• Interest in applying deep systems engineering to real-world problems with empathy.

What We Require

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Software Engineering, Physics, or a similar field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proficiency in at least one language such as Java, Rust, Scala, C++, or C.
• Strong foundations in algorithms, data structures, and concurrency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Coursework or projects in databases, compilers, operating systems, or distributed systems.
• Contributions to open-source projects.
• Must be planning on graduating in 2028 and this should be your final internship before graduating.

Salary

• Estimated salary range: $10,500/month.
• Total compensation will be determined by individual qualifications, work experience, skills, and other factors.
• Excludes benefits and potential future value of long-term incentives.