Staff Database Engineer, MAX Digital

ACV•Buffalo, NY

About The Position

ACV Auctions is looking for a Staff Engineer, Database to join our ACV MAX Engineering team and lead the evolution of the data platform behind our SaaS product, MAX Digital. This role will focus on the design, optimization, and modernization of transactional and analytical data systems, including SQL Server–based platforms, synchronization workflows, and cross-system data integration patterns. The ideal candidate has a strong track record of technical leadership in complex data environments, with deep expertise in SQL Server, data modeling, performance tuning, and scalable platform design. They should also bring experience modernizing legacy data architectures and defining practical approaches for data pipelines, orchestration, and system integration while preserving the reliability of business-critical systems.

Requirements

Ability to read, write, speak and understand English.
BS in Computer Science or related technical discipline or equivalent practical experience required.
10+ years’ professional experience in software engineering with deep Microsoft SQL Serever expertise; experience with PostgreSQL and MongoDB is a plus
Strong proficiency in database internals, query optimization, and performance tuning.
Deep expertise in SQL/T-SQL programming, database design principles, and data modeling.
Solid understanding of SaaS, distributed systems, scalability, and high availability concepts.
Experience with Python, C/C++, C#, or other relevant programming languages.
Proven track record of designing and implementing complex software features with a focus on quality, maintainability, and performance.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complex technical challenges.
Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams.
Experience designing, implementing, or modernizing ETL/ELT workflows, batch processing, synchronization services, or application-integrated data pipelines.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degrees are a plus.
Previous experience in a technical leadership or mentoring role is highly desirable.
Microsoft certifications related to SQL Server are a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead the architectural design and technical decision-making process for core data platform components, including SQL Server systems, data models, synchronization patterns, and cross-system data workflows, ensuring alignment with product goals and engineering standards.
Design, develop, and implement complex features and enhancements within SQL Server and MongoDB, considering performance, scalability, and security aspects.
Collaborate with product managers, designers, and other engineers to define requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
Mentor and guide junior engineers, providing technical expertise, code reviews, and best practices to foster professional growth.
Evaluate SQL and MongoDB environments and produce/execute plans to evolve the data architecture/infrastructure of our platform, ensuring that development engineers can work easily and effectively.
Lead the evaluation and modernization of legacy ETL-style, batch, and synchronization workflows that support core business operations.
Define scalable approaches for data pipeline architecture and orchestration that improve observability, supportability, recoverability, and operational resilience.
Partner with application, product, and analytics teams to improve how transactional systems, analytical systems, and downstream integrations exchange data, reducing reliance on tightly coupled legacy database-driven workflows where appropriate.
Standardize patterns for data synchronization, transformation, validation, and downstream delivery across shared platform components.
Drive performance optimization efforts across both operational and batch-oriented workloads, including query tuning, indexing strategy, workload analysis, and data lifecycle considerations.
Investigate and resolve complex technical issues, applying a systematic approach to troubleshooting and debugging.
Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure robust testing strategies, including unit, integration, and performance testing.
Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices, and apply this knowledge to improve the SQL Server product.
Participate in cross-functional collaboration with teams such as documentation, support, and customer engagement to address customer needs effectively.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of development processes, tools, and methodologies.
Perform additional duties as assigned.