Database Platform Engineer

Join Proton and build a better internet where privacy is the default. At Proton, we believe that privacy is a fundamental human right and the cornerstone of democracy. Since our inception in 2014, we have dedicated ourselves to providing free and open-source technology to millions worldwide, ensuring access to privacy, security and freedom online.

Our journey began with Proton Mail, the largest secure email service globally, and has since expanded to include Proton VPN, Proton Calendar, Proton Drive and Proton Pass. These tools empower individuals and organisations to take control of their personal data, break away from Big Tech's invasive practices and defeat censorship. Our work impacts hundreds of millions of lives, from activists on the front lines defending freedom to leaders in governments protecting sensitive information.

Proton is a profitable company that does not rely upon VC funding, supporting over 100 million user accounts with a growing team of over 500 people from over 50 different countries. We value intelligence, learning potential and ambition in our hiring process. Adaptability is key as we navigate uncharted territories and redefine how business is conducted online.

Hiring at Proton is highly selective, with less than 1% of candidates hired. You'll have the opportunity to work with many of the world's top minds in their fields. We have a global mindset and big ambitions but remain a start-up at heart. We value empowerment and flexibility and keep our structure flat to keep moving fast and avoid unnecessary politics.

Role overview

Databases are the backbone of Proton's constantly growing list of services and must scale along with our growth while being highly reliable. You'll join the database team in our infrastructure department to improve and scale our databases while maximising availability and keeping our data safe and secure. You'll collaborate with other infrastructure and development teams to ensure that database best practices are built into every aspect of design and implementation, improving automation and reducing manual operations of Proton's database platform.

What you'll do

• Support and manage web-scale fleet of mission-critical MySQL databases accessed through ProxySQL
• Boost existing automation in order to reduce operational workload and increase reliability
• Design, implement and execute new operational procedures and processes
• Use your programming/scripting skills to improve and create new code in order to help managing our database platform
• Provide expertise to optimise various layers of database infrastructure, including hardware, OS, storage and network configurations
• Troubleshoot complex technical problems to understand root causes and provide workarounds with long-term solutions
• Keep our database platform up-to-date by preparing and executing upgrades of the full stack

What you'll bring

• 3+ years of experience working with highly available databases systems
• Programming/scripting experience
• Knowledge of MySQL, ProxySQL, Ansible and Linux
• Background in performance tuning and problem diagnosis at the OS, database and application levels
• Experience with software management configuration tools (eg. Puppet) and observability solutions (eg. Prometheus, Grafana, Loki, PMM, Icinga)
• Basic knowledge of networking, server hardware, storage and operating systems knowledge relevant for databases
• Willingness and ability to learn quickly
• Readiness to share knowledge and collaborate with other engineering teams on delivering optimised solutions
• Proactivity, trustworthiness, honesty, openness and helpfulness

Even if you don't meet all the requirements listed above but feel you could still be a great fit, please do apply.

What we offer

• Technology: we provide all the devices and software you need to excel in your role.
• Learning & Development: we are committed to your professional growth - Proton offers various learning opportunities.
• Employee Benefits: comprehensive health insurance plans, competitive retirement savings options, generous vacation/leave policies and wellness programs.
• Stock Options: at Proton, we are all owners of the company and you get stock options when you join us.
• In-Person Collaboration: collaboration is easier and more effective in person, which is why we have offices in multiple locations.
• Food: lunch and snacks are provided by Proton every day at our offices.
• Transport: we support our employees with transport costs.
• Flexible Working: you can define your own working hours as long as it works with team meetings.
• Work that Matters: Proton is a community-first organisation, started with the support of a crowdfunding campaign.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

At Proton, we believe diversity drives innovation and strengthens our mission to provide privacy as a default for all. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered.

If you need any extra support or reasonable adjustments during the hiring process, please let your talent partner know.