Coupang

Staff AI Engineer - Search & Discovery

Coupang$184K — $376K *
Information Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3+ years in software engineering with strong coding and critical review skills.
  • Deep specialization in Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs).
  • Proven ownership of end-to-end AI applications and Generative AI agents.
  • Experience with RAG pipelines and LLM fine-tuning.
  • Demonstrated ability to turn AI concepts into production use with measurable impact.
  • Technical knowledge of AI stacks, including prompt engineering and scalable MLOps.

Responsibilities

  • Design and architect AI-native applications around generative AI and LLMs.
  • Manage production AI infrastructure and real-time data pipelines.
  • Establish robust RAG frameworks utilizing internal data for accuracy.
  • Implement advanced prompt engineering and stable software services.
  • Enforce monitoring and safety measures for AI reliability.
  • Prototype and deploy new AI capabilities rapidly for innovation.
  • Drive initiatives to enhance user engagement and operational efficiency.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision/Life insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Long-term/Short-term Disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401K Plan with Company Match
  • 18-21 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) based on tenure
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Pre-tax commuter benefits
  • Electric Car Charging Station access
Full Job Description
About The Role

We are looking for an AI Native, AI First Engineer to pioneer and architect entirely new applications where Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) serve as the fundamental core intelligence.

At Coupang, we are redefining the boundaries of what is possible. This role is at the forefront of our invention strategy, building systems that are not just AI-enhanced, but AI-native from the ground up to deliver transformative customer and operational experiences.

In this role, you will own the end-to-end lifecycle of high-scale, non-deterministic AI systems-from rapid prototyping and architectural design to full-scale production deployment. You will operate with a full-stack AI mindset, leveraging cutting-edge LLM technology to solve complex problems and create entirely new product paradigms.

This is a high-impact, pioneering role where you will drive innovation at scale, shape the future of our product intelligence, and demonstrate a proven track record of taking transformative AI concepts from zero to production.

What You Will Do
• Design, architect, and own the full lifecycle of novel, end-to-end applications centered on generative AI and LLMs to create new e-commerce experiences.
• Develop and manage production AI infrastructure, including vector databases, high-throughput inference, and real-time data pipelines for context enrichment and low-latency serving.
• Develop and maintain strong RAG frameworks, grounding AI applications in Coupang's proprietary product catalog, user history, and operational knowledge bases for factual accuracy and relevance.
• Implement advanced prompt engineering, agentic design, and complex LLM chains to build intelligent, stable software services.
• Enforce AI reliability, monitoring, and safety to manage model non-determinism, minimizing hallucinations and optimizing large-scale cost-efficiency.
• Rapidly prototype and productionize new AI capabilities to drive innovation and advance Coupang's mission to "build the future of commerce."

What We're Looking For
• 3 years of experience in software engineering, with solid coding skills and critical code review capabilities, as well as a deep specialization in leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI systems and productivity tools.
• Strong product-led engineering mindset with the ability to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and practical, user-centric product features.
• Proven experience owning end-to-end AI applications, including:
• Generative AI agents and conversational interfaces.
• RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) pipelines.
• LLM fine-tuning and optimization for specific domains.
• AI-powered automation and workflow systems.
• Demonstrated track record of taking AI-first products from concept to production, driving measurable improvements in user engagement, operational efficiency, or system performance.
• Deep technical understanding of modern AI stacks, including:
• Prompt engineering and LLM orchestration frameworks (e.g., LangChain, LlamaIndex).
• Vector databases and semantic search architectures.
• Scalable MLOps for non-deterministic AI models.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in high-traffic, large-scale consumer AI environments (e.g., LLM-based assistants, search/recommendation systems, or generative content platforms)
• Experience leading or contributing to cross-functional AI research and product engineering teams.
• Experience building and launching 01 Generative AI products or integrating LLMs into existing complex product surfaces.
• Strong background in fast-scaling technology companies with a deep understanding of the challenges in deploying non-deterministic systems at scale.
• Passion for continuous experimentation and rapid prototyping to solve ambiguous customer problems using the latest advancements in AI/ML.
• Exposure/experience in e-commerce search.

Pay & Benefits

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US geographic markets. At Coupang, your base pay is one part of your total compensation.

The base pay for this position ranges from $184,000/year in our lowest geographic market to $376,000/year in our highest geographic market. Pay is based on several factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

General Description of All Benefits

  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life, AD&D insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Long-term/Short-term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) program
  • 401K Plan with Company Match
  • 18-21 days of the Paid Time Off (PTO) a year based on the tenure
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental leave
  • Pre-tax commuter benefits
  • MTV - [Free] Electric Car Charging Station


General Description of Other Compensation

"Other Compensation" includes, but is not limited to, bonuses, equity, or other forms of compensation that would be offered to the hired applicant in addition to their established salary range or wage scale.

Recruitment Process
  • Application Review - Phone Interview - Onsite (or Virtual Onsite) Interview - Offer
  • The exact nature of the recruitment process may vary according to the specific job and may be changed due to scheduling or other circumstances.
  • Interview schedules and the results will be informed to the applicant via the e-mail address submitted at the application stage.


Details to Consider
  • This job posting may be closed prior to the stated end date for application if all openings are filled.
  • Coupang has the right to rescind an offer of employment if a candidate is found to have submitted false information as part of the application process.
  • Those eligible for employment protection (recipients of veteran's benefits, the disabled, etc.) may receive preferential treatment for employment in accordance with applicable laws.


Privacy Notice
  • Your personal information will be collected and managed by Coupang as stated in the Application Privacy Notice located below: https://www.coupang.jobs/privacy-policy/


Job Requisition ID: R0071666

About Coupang

Coupang is a South Korean e-commerce company based in Seoul, South Korea, and incorporated in Delaware, United States. Founded in 2010 by Bom Kim, the company expanded to become the largest online marketplace in South Korea. Its expansion led the company to the video streaming distribution after the launch of the service Coupang Play. Coupang is often referred to as the "Amazon of South Korea", due its position and corporate size in South Korean online market.

Coupang Careers

Join the vibrant team at Coupang, one of the largest and most innovative e-commerce platforms in the world. At Coupang, we are not just a company; we are a revolution in online shopping, dedicated to transforming the customer experience through bold innovation and leadership in the digital landscape.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career journey with Coupang, where job opportunities abound to elevate your professional life. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a leadership role, Coupang offers a dynamic environment for growth and advancement.

Innovate and Lead

At Coupang, innovation isn't just another buzzword—it's the cornerstone of our operations. Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the norms of e-commerce. With a focus on rapid delivery and customer satisfaction, your work will directly impact millions of lives every day.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that diversity fuels innovation. Coupang is committed to creating a diverse work environment where everyone, from any background, can thrive. Our diversity training ensures that all team members are valued and understood, fostering an inclusive culture that supports professional and personal growth.

Grow Your Career

Coupang is the perfect place to future-proof your career. We support our employees with unmatched training, development programs, and opportunities for upward mobility. From internships to full-time positions, every role at Coupang is designed to enhance your skills and push the boundaries of what you can achieve.

Be Part of Our Team

Our team at Coupang is composed of passionate, curious, and innovative professionals. We are hiring individuals who are not only looking to advance their careers but also to make a significant impact on the industry. Join us and be part of a team that values creativity and solution-driven mindsets.

Benefits and Culture

Coupang offers a competitive package of benefits that address the diverse needs of our employees. From health and wellness to financial planning, we ensure our team is equipped to lead a balanced life. Experience our culture where work-life balance is not just promised but practiced.

Networking and Professional Development

Networking at Coupang opens doors to expansive career opportunities. Connect with leaders and peers within the company through various networking events and collaborative projects. Our commitment to your career development is reflected in our continuous learning initiatives and professional growth activities.

Explore Job Opportunities

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Explore the numerous job opportunities at Coupang, from customer service to tech innovation. Check out our current openings and find where your skills and interests align with our needs.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Coupang by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives and industry-leading insights that you can apply to your professional life today.

Apply Now

Ready to make a significant impact? Submit your resume, complete your profile, and prepare for an interview where you can showcase your unique abilities. At Coupang, your next great job opportunity awaits.

SEARCH COUPANG JOBS

Join Coupang and be part of a forward-thinking company that prides itself on leadership, innovation, and a commitment to the careers of its employees.
Learn more about Coupang
Market Cap
$27.5 billion
Industry
Founded
2010
5 Year Trend
+61.5%
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Coupang

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Staff AI Engineer - Search & Discovery jobs: