Rakuten is seeking a mid-level Software Engineer for its Search Ads Group within the Ad Product Development Department. The role involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining backend services and advertising products that support search-based ad delivery. Candidates are expected to have professional software development experience, strong programming skills, knowledge of web or distributed systems, and familiarity with databases, APIs, testing, and version control. Experience with Java, Kotlin, Scala, Python, or similar languages, as well as cloud technologies and large-scale systems, is advantageous. The successful candidate should communicate effectively in English and/or Japanese, collaborate across teams, solve complex technical problems, and take ownership of reliable, scalable product delivery.
Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese technology and internet services company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem covering e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, online advertising, and other consumer and business services. Rakuten is known for integrating these offerings through its membership and loyalty platform, Rakuten Points. The company has a global workforce and works with international engineering and product teams, making English useful in many technology roles, although Japanese may be required for certain business interactions. Its advertising business uses customer, marketplace, and search data to help merchants and brands reach relevant audiences. Employees typically work in a fast-moving, multicultural environment focused on large-scale digital products, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Japan offers strong opportunities for software engineers, particularly in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and other technology centers. Demand is consistent in cloud computing, mobile services, fintech, data, cybersecurity, and e-commerce. Workplace culture often values teamwork, reliability, preparation, and respect for hierarchy, while international companies may provide more flexible and English-friendly environments. Japan offers excellent public transport, safe cities, convenient services, rich food culture, and access to mountains, beaches, and historic towns. Tokyo has the widest career market but higher housing costs; regional cities can provide a quieter and more affordable lifestyle. Non-Japanese citizens generally need an appropriate work visa, commonly the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status, supported by an employer. Candidates should prepare qualifications, employment documents, residence registration, health insurance, pension enrollment, and housing arrangements before relocating.
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