Search Engineer

As a Search Engineer at DeviantArt, you will join our core engineering team to design, develop, and maintain the search infrastructure powering discovery for millions of users. You will focus on the product application of search—working directly on ranking, query analysis, and system integration—while collaborating with data science teams to deliver high-quality features at scale using modern systems like Vespa. Design, build, and optimize core search and indexing systems utilizing technologies like Vespa and managed AWS services Develop and implement sophisticated algorithms for search relevance, ranking, and personalization Work extensively within the Vespa framework to develop application packages, custom components, and deployment strategies Collaborate closely with product managers, data scientists, and front-end engineers to translate insights into impactful search features Monitor, troubleshoot, and fine-tune search performance and system stability using AWS observability tools Implement A/B tests to measure the impact of search changes on key user engagement metrics 3+ years of professional experience in building and operating large-scale search systems using technologies like Vespa or Elasticsearch Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field Strong programming skills, particularly in Python and Java Hands-on expertise operating distributed applications within a cloud environment, preferably using managed AWS services Solid understanding of information retrieval concepts, ranking algorithms, and query analysis strategies Passion for art, creativity, and the DeviantArt community Experience with modern AI techniques (e.g., embedding models, RAG) – an advantage DeviantArt is the world's largest online social community for artists and art enthusiasts. Our mission is to allow people to connect and express themselves through the creation and sharing of art. As part of our core engineering team, you will directly influence how millions of people discover and interact with art globally, working with cutting-edge technology in a collaborative, art-loving environment. We believe the best innovation happens when we mix deep focus work with in-person connection. While you'll work from home most of the week, we require this person to be in our Vancouver office every Thursday. The approximate base compensation is $130,000 - 185,000 CAD In addition to base pay you will receive company RSUs as part of the compensation package.  The final offer may vary and will be determined by various factors including candidate profile and ideal qualifications.