DevOps Engineer - Recommendation Department, AI & Data Division (AIDD)

Role summary

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Rakuten is seeking a DevOps Engineer for the Recommendation Department within its AI & Data Division. The role typically involves designing, developing, and operating cloud-based infrastructure and deployment pipelines that support recommendation systems and data-driven services. Candidates are expected to have professional experience with Linux, cloud platforms, CI/CD, containers, infrastructure automation, monitoring, and scripting or programming. Familiarity with Kubernetes, Docker, Terraform, public cloud services, and large-scale data or machine-learning platforms is valuable. The successful candidate should be comfortable troubleshooting production environments, improving system reliability and security, collaborating with software and data scientists, and communicating effectively in an international team. Japanese ability may be helpful, while strong English communication is generally important.

About the employer

Rakuten Group, Inc. is a major Japanese internet and technology company headquartered in Tokyo. Founded in 1997, it operates a broad ecosystem covering e-commerce, fintech, mobile communications, digital content, travel, advertising, and other online services. Rakuten is known for connecting these businesses through its membership and loyalty platform, including Rakuten Points. The company serves customers in Japan and international markets and employs people from many nationalities, particularly in technology and data-related teams. Its AI and Data Division develops machine-learning, analytics, personalization, and platform capabilities used across Rakuten services. The company promotes an engineering-driven environment where teams work on large-scale systems, cloud infrastructure, recommendation technologies, and digital products. Benefits commonly include social insurance, paid leave, employee discounts, and support programs, although exact conditions depend on the position and employment contract.

Working in Japan

Japan offers strong opportunities in software engineering, cloud operations, data science, cybersecurity, finance, manufacturing, tourism, and international business. Tokyo provides the largest job market and the widest range of English-friendly roles, while Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Sapporo offer lower-cost alternatives with growing technology communities. Japanese workplaces value punctuality, preparation, teamwork, and respectful communication, though international companies often have more flexible cultures. Daily life is generally safe, convenient, and supported by excellent public transport, healthcare, and reliable services. Housing and commuting costs are highest in central Tokyo. Foreign professionals normally need an appropriate work visa, commonly the Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services status, with employer sponsorship and qualification checks. Applicants should prepare translated documents, arrange housing and registration after arrival, and budget for deposits, insurance, taxes, and moving expenses. Learning basic Japanese greatly improves social and practical integration.