(Senior) Machine Learning Engineer, Ads Ranking

About SmartNews
SmartNews is a global leader in redefining information and news discovery, committed to providing users with accurate, timely information and supporting quality journalism. We combine the power of our unique machine-learning technology with the expertise of our first-rate editorial team to bring news that matters to millions of users from our over 3,000 global publishing partners.
Founded in 2012 in Tokyo, Japan, SmartNews has offices in Tokyo, San Francisco, Palo Alto, New York, and Singapore.
The Team
Ads are the lifeblood of our company, and our state-of-the-art Ads Ranking system enables us to create the most relevant, profitable, and sustainable ad products. The team is responsible for developing Deep Neural Network (DNN) based machine learning architecture and scaling our core-ranking system. This involves solving a range of online prediction, recommendation, and optimization problems using engineering and mathematical thinking to maximize ad revenue and performance. We are seeking talented engineers to build the next-generation ads delivery system to support our fast and aggressive company growth.
Your Responsibilities
Develop Ads Ranking core systems and algorithms to generate relevant ads that drive the growth of a profitable ads ecosystem (e.G., ads targeting, ranking, auction, strategy, model serving reliability, etc.).
Build highly scalable machine learning/deep learning systems and models to improve ads ranking quality. Relevant model types include, but are not limited to, user click-through rate (CTR), user conversion rate (CVR), prediction models, and user targeting models.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, such as product managers and product specialists, to enhance the efficiency of ads auction and bidding strategies by releasing new algorithms.
Work closely with backend engineers to develop a scalable ads ranking and delivery system.
Requirements
Minimum requirements
BS degree or higher in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Science (Physics or Mathematics), or other relevant majors.
Solid programming skills, proficient in handling complex systems.
Proven experience in developing and optimizing large scale machine learning applications.
Good mathematical skills, particularly in statistics and mathematical optimization.
Strong analytical thinking.
Proficiency in business-level English.
Nice to have experiences/skills
M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant major.
Strong domain knowledge about the digital ad ecosystem in at least one of the following areas:
bidding/auction/measurement/conversion modeling, etc.
Ability to drive cross-functional collaborations, and deliver business impact.
Proven research experience, such as holding a PhD degree and having good publications.
Benefits
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation range:
$150,000 to $230,000 base salary, plus bonus and equity
401(k) with employer matching
Up to 100% medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family
A benefits plan with monthly allowances
Complimentary lunch, snacks, and beverages in the office