Backend Software Engineer (Java) - Search Quality (open to remote across ANZ)

About the team

Discovery Understandings mission is to promote and showcase Canvas content to current and potential users. Without good discovery systems users cant benefit from the wide range of content Canva has on offer. We are responsible for the AI machine learning and backend infrastructure that powers Canvas discovery experience from the collection of data and signals through to the serving of thousands of search requests per second. We do our work across the major discovery areas at Canva: templates photos graphics videos and users designs.

Backend engineers in Discovery Understanding build intelligent systems that connect millions of users with the relevant content for their creative needs. We design and implement high-performance search algorithms and machine learning models across Canvas vast content ecosystem. We identify opportunities execute solutions and measure their effectiveness at scale to drive engagement and satisfaction. We launch prototypes iterate and work on projects that meet long-term engineering and product strategy to provide the best search experience while honouring Canvas values.

What youll be doing in this role

• Develop and run experiments to test new algorithms and models aimed at improving search relevance.
• Collaborate with machine learning engineers to integrate new features and models into the search pipeline.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams including product managers and frontend engineers to align on search-related goals and deliverables.
• Monitor and troubleshoot search performance issues ensuring high availability and reliability of search services.
• Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues related to the teams domain as and when they arise and being part of the teams rostered on-call rotation.
• Providing on-call support for the teams services.

Youre probably a match if

• Proven experience in backend development with a strong understanding of data structures algorithms and software design principles.
• Proficiency in Java.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced collaborative environment.
• Disciplined coding practices and experience with code reviews and pull requests. You model best practices to your peers.
• Strong communication and team collaboration skills both written and verbal. A Canva engineer strives to understand the exact problem before jumping into writing code.
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g. AWS GCP) and containerization technologies (e.g. Docker Kubernetes).
• Experience with large-scale data processing and distributed systems.
• Hands-on experience using AI in coding/programming to drive greater impact

Whats in it for you

Achieving our crazy big goals motivates us to work hard - and we do - but youll experience lots of moments of magic connectivity and fun woven throughout life at Canva too. 

We also offer a stack of benefits to set you up for every success in and outside of work. 

Heres a taste of whats on offer:
 Equity packages - we want our success to be yours too
Inclusive parental leave policy that supports all parents & carers
An annual Vibe & Thrive allowance to support your well-being social connection office setup & more
Flexible leave options that empower you to be a force for good take time to recharge and supports you personally

Check out for more info.

Other stuff to know

We make hiring decisions based on your experience skills and passion as well as how you can enhance Canva and our culture.  We see AI as a powerful amplifier of creativity and technology at Canva.

Were evolving how we assess AI skills in our Technology hiring experience - youll tackle interactive real-time challenges that reflect the kind of work we do. In some interviews you may also be asked to solve a problem using an AI tool to show how you approach challenges with tech by your side. Your recruitment partner will walk you through what to make hiring decisions based on your experience skills and passion as well as how you can enhance Canva and our culture. When you apply please tell us the pronouns you use and any reasonable adjustments you may need during the interview celebrate all types of skills and backgrounds at Canva so even if you dont feel like your skills quite match whats listed above - we still want to hear from you! 

When you apply please tell us the pronouns you use and any reasonable adjustments you may need during the interview process.

Please note that interviews are conducted virtually. 

Remote Work :

Yes

Employment Type :

Full-time