Senior Software Engineers - Frontend & Backend | Hornet
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 frontend and 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
Backend:
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
Frontend:
Strong proficiency in TypeScript and React
Experience with modern state management and component architecture
Taste for design and UX
Strong familiarity with CSS
Experience building responsive, accessible web applications
Ability to translate product requirements into intuitive user experiences
Both Roles:
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
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.