Senior backend software engineers

The retrieval engine built for agents

Hornet is an ambitious startup building the next generation of retrieval infrastructure. Our engine powers agentic systems with an API surface that agents can configure, deploy, feed, query, and optimize autonomously. Building on battle-tested technology, serving billions of users, petabytes of data, millions of requests per second, we're rethinking retrieval for the agentic era.

We have an office in the Bay Area to tap into market opportunities in the region, while the engineering team is based in Trondheim. We serve enterprise clients globally, enabling them to actually get work done with agents.

We're hiring

We are seeking backend developers with 5+ years of relevant experience. You'll work directly on our infrastructure and the Hornet retrieval engine.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement high-performance software for distributed retrieval systems
• Work closely with AI and search experts to integrate advanced algorithms
• Contribute to architecture discussions shaping a Kubernetes-native, cloud-first platform
• Build infrastructure designed for agents as first-class users

Qualifications

• Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
• Expert at modern Java and/or C++ (we care about metal performance)
• Cloud infrastructure: Kubernetes, Terraform, GCP/AWS
• Databases, distributed systems, production-grade operations
• Experience with high-throughput, low-latency systems
• Strong knowledge of algorithms and data structures
• Proficiency with coding agents for quick prototypes
• CI/CD pipelines and GitHub operations
• 5+ years of professional software development experience

Who we're looking for

• Unshakeable: High-agency executors who move fast but think deeply
• Curious: Quick learners who take time to listen, question, and explore
• Purpose-driven: Motivated by building technology that matters, not just personal gain
• Excellence: A passion for quality craftsmanship with a track record of top performance
• Resourcefulness: Proactive, independent, and able to drive projects forward from day one

What we offer

• A highly competent, innovative team where your ideas are heard
• International exposure with global customers and partners
• An office-centric culture that prioritizes output and responsibility over rigid schedules
• Competitive salary and equity stake

To apply

Ready to build retrieval infrastructure for the AI era? Send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying.