Data Engineer - BI Insights Group, Data Platform Department (DPD)

Role summary

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The role involves designing, building, and maintaining data pipelines and platforms that support business intelligence and insights across Rakuten. Candidates are expected to have professional experience with data engineering, SQL, Python, ETL or ELT processes, and cloud or distributed data technologies. Familiarity with data warehousing, dimensional modeling, workflow orchestration, and visualization or BI tools is valuable. The successful candidate should be able to translate business requirements into reliable data solutions, improve data quality and performance, collaborate with analysts and business teams, and communicate clearly in a multicultural environment. Experience with large-scale systems, Agile development, and Japanese business operations would be advantageous.

About the employer

Rakuten Group is a major Japanese internet and technology company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem that includes e-commerce, digital content, fintech, mobile communications, travel, advertising, and online services. Rakuten’s strategy is built around connecting these businesses through a shared membership program and loyalty points platform. The company serves customers in Japan and internationally, with employees from many countries and a strong emphasis on technology, data, and innovation. Rakuten is known for its English-language workplace initiative, particularly in technical and corporate roles, although Japanese ability can still be useful depending on the team. Its engineering organizations work on large-scale platforms, analytics, cloud services, and products used by millions of customers.

Working in Japan

Japan offers strong opportunities in software engineering, data, finance, education, tourism, healthcare, and international business, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Work culture values reliability, preparation, teamwork, and respect for seniority, while many global technology companies use English in daily operations. Living standards are high, public transport is excellent, and cities are generally safe, clean, and convenient. Tokyo is lively but expensive; regional cities offer more space and a slower pace. Japan has four distinct seasons, varied food, efficient healthcare, and excellent rail connections. Foreign professionals usually need a work visa sponsored by their employer, commonly under an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status. Applicants should prepare academic certificates, employment records, and passport documents. Relocation typically requires arranging housing, registration at the local municipality, health insurance, and a residence card. Learning basic Japanese greatly helps with administration and everyday life.