Java Software Engineer, Search team

About the role

KAYAK seeks skilled Java backend engineers to power the core of its global travel search platform. You will tackle complex backend challenges that influence how millions of users explore and book travel. The position demands careful coding, strict attention to user experience, and a commitment to system reliability. You will operate within a large-scale, high-performance ecosystem that connects travelers with partners worldwide. This role is integral to maintaining and advancing the technology behind flight and hotel discovery.

Key facts

The position is based in the Kaunas office. The engagement model is hybrid, requiring a minimum of three office days each week. The compensation package offers a base salary ranging from 2700 to 3990 EUR gross on a monthly basis.

What you will do

Implement new backend components for search and booking features under the guidance of senior engineers.

Build and maintain robust integrations with more than 200 external travel partners and their APIs.

Collaborate with product and engineering teams to refine features, emphasizing speed and user experience.

Analyze query performance data to identify bottlenecks and improve response times.

Guide less experienced engineers through code reviews and professional feedback.

Execute tests in staging environments to validate stability, performance, and correctness.

Align technical roadmaps with business objectives and market demands.

Manage and optimize deployment pipelines to enable reliable and frequent software releases.

Requirements

Possess a degree in Computer Science or a closely related technical field.

Have a minimum of two years of professional experience writing Java code in production environments.

Demonstrate a solid understanding of the Spring framework and relational database systems.

Communicate effectively in English for both written documentation and verbal discussions.

Show a proactive attitude toward learning within a collaborative team setting.

Thrive in a hybrid work model with the ability to be physically present in the office at least three days per week.

Nice to have

Hands-on experience with ElasticSearch or similar search and indexing technologies.

Skills and tools

Core expertise in Java, Spring, and SQL is essential. Familiarity with search technologies is a valuable asset.

Compensation details

The total compensation consists of several elements designed to reward performance and loyalty. The base pay ranges from 2700 EUR to 3990 EUR gross monthly. Employees receive significant yearly bonuses, approximately 10 percent of their annual salary. The package includes Booking Holdings RSUs, with a gross value of 20000 USD, eligible for yearly refreshes.

Benefits

KAYAK provides a comprehensive suite of benefits to support professional and personal well-being. Remote work flexibility allows employees to work from almost anywhere for up to 20 days annually. The company invests in professional development through funds for career growth and access to thousands of on-demand e-learnings. Health and wellness are supported via generous additional health insurance, flexible sick time off, and additional financial support during sick leave. Personal milestones are recognized with an additional day off on your birthday. The company observes a complete winter holiday closure, offers additional support during parental leave, and provides free lunch twice weekly along with daily snacks. Fitness is encouraged through free yoga sessions twice weekly. Employees are granted paid volunteering time and enjoy no meeting Fridays. The office fosters community through regular events, including summer camps, birthday celebrations, and winter parties. Mental health is supported via company-paid therapy sessions and a subscription to HeadSpace. Internal communities facilitate connection and knowledge sharing.

Inclusion statement

KAYAK is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can grow and share ideas. The company focuses on hiring a wide range of talent and ensuring that no one feels pressured to conform to a single mold. If you require accommodations at any stage of the application process or during your employment, KAYAK is prepared to assist. Please contact your recruiter to discuss specific needs.