Principal Applied Scientist Search/NLP/IR (all genders)

Zalando is seeking a Principal Applied Scientist to lead the evolution of their search systems using state-of-the-art NLP and information retrieval methods. In this role, you will develop intelligent, scalable, and personalized search experiences for over 51 million customers, focusing on transformer-based deep neural networks and large language models.

• Research, deploy, and architect machine learning and deep learning solutions in NLP and IR to enhance search systems at large scale
• Transform Zalando search into a fully intent-driven, LLM-augmented experience spanning query understanding, semantic retrieval, and personalized result page composition
• Develop long-term scientific roadmaps addressing multiple product areas and concrete business goals
• Contribute hands-on to delivering the roadmap in partnership with scientists, engineers, and product teams
• Raise departmental and organizational best practices in methods, algorithms, and technology including architecture and design patterns
• Mentor junior scientists and share knowledge within Zalando's science community

• PhD in NLP, IR, machine learning, or related fields (or equivalent experience) with 4+ years of industry experience in deep learning-based NLP and/or IR
• Experience leading and shaping scientific roadmaps across multiple product areas, working with senior science, engineering, and product leaders
• Extensive track record of addressing real-world problems using machine learning throughout the entire product cycle
• Authority on deep learning with publication records at top-tier venues
• Proficiency in Python and frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow
• Expertise with LLMs and their applications in IR
• Proficiency in cloud computing platforms such as AWS

• 27 days of holiday per year for full-time employees, increasing by 1 day per calendar year up to 30 days
• 2 paid volunteering days per year
• Hybrid working model with up to 60% remote per week
• Work from abroad for up to 30 working days per year
• Employee shares program
• 40% discount on Zalando fashion and beauty products, 30% off Lounge by Zalando
• Relocation assistance available
• Family services including counseling and support
• Health and wellbeing options including Wellhub
• Mental health support and coaching
• Training platform and biannual peer-to-peer review