Staff Software Engineer - Logs Management

Datadog’s Logs organization is looking for a Staff Software Engineer to help shape the next generation of log ingestion, querying, and intelligent log management. This role is focused on setting technical direction and delivering systems that improve performance at scale, while also exploring AI-driven approaches to how logs are managed and used.

Location: New York, NY (hybrid)
Compensation: USD 244,000 - 305,000 per year

Responsibilities

• Work with Product Managers to clarify ambiguous requirements and identify the most impactful solutions for customers.
• Lead technical strategy and execution, including system design for log query performance and ingestion at scale.
• Research, prototype, and collaborate on initiatives across AI-powered log management, security and business operations, advanced query capabilities, and external data source querying.
• Mentor engineers across levels and help build a high-performing, collaborative team culture.

Requirements

• Deep experience architecting and scaling backend systems, especially data-intensive or distributed infrastructure.
• Strong ability to operate in ambiguous environments, combining drive, curiosity, and pragmatic decision-making.
• Proven experience partnering with Product Managers and customers to define product direction and ship impactful features.
• Expertise debugging complex systems and optimizing performance across real-time data pipelines.
• Experience using AI agent tools as part of day-to-day engineering practices.
• Demonstrated mentorship habits, leading by example and supporting the growth of others through collaboration.
• Ability to use AI coding tools in daily workflows, including validating, critiquing, and refining AI-generated output.
• Bonus: Motivation to push the boundaries of how AI can strengthen software engineering best practices and help build AI-enabled systems.

Benefits

• Generous and competitive benefits package.
• New hire stock equity (RSUs) and employee stock purchase plan.
• Continuous career development and pathing opportunities.
• Employee-focused best in class onboarding.
• Internal mentor and cross-departmental buddy program.
• Friendly and inclusive workplace culture.