Senior Compiler Developer (Kotlin Compiler - Core)

About the role

Join JetBrains as a Senior Compiler Developer focusing on the Kotlin compiler core pipeline. You will own the central flow that links the frontend with multiple back‑ends, shaping how Kotlin code is transformed, validated, and optimized for developers worldwide.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop, and integrate new language features into the Kotlin compiler.
• Implement and fine‑tune intermediate representation (IR) lowering passes.
• Investigate, diagnose, and fix complex compiler bugs and edge cases.
• Improve compiler performance and memory usage while preserving backward compatibility.
• Collaborate with other Kotlin teams to influence language evolution and developer experience.
• Maintain and enhance Kotlin infrastructure such as IR/AST transformations and Klibs.

Required profile

• Strong attention to detail and a passion for clean architecture.
• High sense of ownership and ability to tackle complex technical challenges.
• Clear communication skills for explaining design decisions to peers.
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work closely with cross‑functional teams.
• Long‑term focus on quality, maintainability, and backward compatibility.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Kotlin and Java on the JVM.
• Deep understanding of algorithms and data structures.
• Experience writing clean, maintainable, well‑tested code.
• Knowledge of compiler development concepts (IR, AST, lowering passes).
• Familiarity with Gradle plugin development is a plus.
• Experience optimizing JVM application performance is a plus.

What we offer

• Competitive base salary reflecting your expertise.
• Flexible work location – choose between office or home.
• Remote work option up to 30 days per year from abroad.
• Additional paid time off.