Job Description

About Us

Ververica is the company behind Apache Flink®, the world’s leading open-source stream processing framework. We empower enterprises to build real-time data applications at scale. Our team includes core Flink committers and experts in distributed systems, JVM internals, and low-latency computing.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Master’s-level student with strong computer science fundamentals and a passion for understanding systems at a deep level. As a Performance Engineering Intern, you will work closely with our architects and performance engineering teams to push the boundaries of what’s possible in large-scale stream processing.


You will contribute directly to performance improvements in Apache Flink and Ververica’s next-generation stream processing engine (VERA), exploring optimizations and enhancing the efficiency of complex data processing workloads.


This internship offers the opportunity to work on real, production-grade systems that powers mission-critical systems worldwide and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge distributed runtime technologies.

What You’ll Do

Analyze JVM behavior (e.g., JIT compilation, garbage collection, class loading) under real-world streaming workloads. Profile, and benchmark runtime behavior, identifying hotspots, inefficiencies, and opportunities for speedups. Work with native code integration, reflection usage, and dynamic class loading patterns—understanding their impact on runtime efficiency. Design and prototype compiler- and runtime-level optimizations for stream processing operators and execution pipelines. Document findings, present insights, and contribute to internal knowledge sharing on performance engineering topics.

Requirements

Who You Are

Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related field—with outstanding academic performance. Deep understanding of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM): You can confidently explain concepts such as bytecode interpretation vs. JIT compilation (C1/C2), garbage collection algorithms (e.g., G1, ZGC), heap/non-heap memory management, and class initialization. Strong programming skills in Java (and optionally other JVM languages), with attention to performance-sensitive code (e.g., object allocation, escape analysis, inlining). Familiarity with performance analysis tools (e.g., async-profiler, JFR, JITWatch, GC logs). Interest in distributed systems, stream processing, or systems programming. Ability to work independently on complex problems, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Bonus: Experience with Apache Flink, reactive systems, or low-latency JVM applications.

Benefits

Why Intern With Us?

Work on foundational technology used by Fortune 500 companies and cloud providers. Direct mentorship from experts in Apache Flink, JVM, compilers, and distributed systems. Opportunity to present at internal tech talks or international conferences * Flexible, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous environment.