Netflix’s Data Science & Analytics team seeks to redefine how members discover and connect with global stories by leveraging advanced technologies like Computer Vision and Machine Learning. The Research Scientist role within the Promo Media Algorithm team is pivotal in designing algorithmic solutions that enhance personalized recommendations for movies, TV shows and games.
Every time a member opens the Netflix app, the platform has mere seconds to present content that aligns with their tastes, using authentic visuals, engaging trailers and accurate summaries. This role emphasizes crafting algorithms that optimize these media assets, ensuring each title’s unique appeal resonates with users worldwide. Working closely with product managers, engineers and data scientists, the Research Scientist helps shape the direction of Netflix’s personalization engine, using creative and data-driven approaches to continuously enhance the content discovery experience.
Ideal candidates bring a deep foundation in machine learning, particularly in supervised and unsupervised learning, as well as hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch. Strong programming skills in Python, a knack for innovative problem-solving and the ability to adapt algorithms for evolving challenges are essential.
The Role
At Netflix, we are driven by our mission to entertain the world by bridging audiences with a rich array of stories sourced from diverse cultures and perspectives worldwide. With over 270 million members spanning 190+ countries and supporting 30+ languages, Netflix connects its users with content that resonates deeply. A core part of this goal is providing members with personalized, impactful insights about each movie and show to underline its unique appeal.
Our aim is to ensure that Netflix’s global audience feels connected to authentic stories. Every time a member opens the Netflix app, we have just a few moments to offer content that aligns with their tastes. Key elements like visuals, trailers and summaries serve to showcase each title in a way that feels genuine and resonates with members, facilitating an immediate and lasting connection with the story.
Achieving this level of personalization for each title is no small feat. Yet, our Promo Media Algorithm team, supported by creative experts and data insights, has pioneered tools and workflows that leverage advanced technologies like Computer Vision, Graphics and Machine Learning. This system enables our creators to convey the most compelling version of their stories, allowing Netflix’s content library to continue expanding globally. To help advance this mission, we are looking to onboard a skilled Research Scientist specializing in Computer Vision.
Responsibilities
As a Research Scientist, your role will involve developing and implementing algorithmic solutions that enhance our visual promotional media assets. These assets play a key role in guiding members toward stories or games they will enjoy. The primary goal is to make this process as efficient and cost-effective as possible.
- Design and Implementation: Develop algorithms that improve the creation of visual promotional assets, making it easier for members to find content that captivates them.
- Collaboration: Work closely with various cross-functional teams, including product managers, engineers and data scientists, to clearly define problem statements, develop strategic roadmaps and prioritize tasks to achieve shared goals.
- Effective Communication: Communicate complex ideas effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders to help shape key decisions.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with advancements in the field by attending conferences, reading up on the latest research and implementing promising methodologies to optimize Promo Media workflows.
- Growth and Innovation: Contribute to the team’s growth by pursuing novel ideas and initiating projects that offer high potential for a positive impact.
- Community Engagement: Actively participate in the Machine Learning (ML) community, both within and outside Netflix, to foster learning, share knowledge and enhance Netflix’s brand in the ML domain.
Qualifications and Skills
The ideal candidate for this position should have a robust foundation in machine learning, deep learning and computer vision, as well as the ability to develop innovative solutions in media and content creation.
- Educational Background: Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or a similar technical discipline with a focus on Computer Vision.
- Technical Expertise: Proficiency in machine learning and deep learning, including both supervised and unsupervised learning and experience with advanced architectures like GANs and diffusion models.
- Programming Proficiency: Skilled in Python, with hands-on experience in using machine learning and deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch.
- Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to solve complex challenges by creating innovative algorithmic solutions in the media and content space. This includes developing new algorithms as well as adapting existing methods to address emerging needs.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset: Possess a risk-balanced entrepreneurial approach, enabling you to initiate impactful projects. Strong ability to weigh risk against potential rewards.
- Communication Skills: Strong communicator capable of translating technical details into terms that can be understood by diverse audiences, whether technical or non-technical.
- Collaborative Nature: Enjoys working in fast-paced, dynamic environments, bringing a positive influence to the team and fostering a collaborative culture.
- Cultural Alignment: Finds resonance with Netflix’s unique corporate culture and values.
Compensation and Benefits
Netflix’s compensation structure is based entirely on an annual salary with no bonus structure. Employees are empowered to determine the ratio of salary versus stock options within their compensation package. Netflix calculates an individual’s market rate by analyzing industry data and factoring in their specific role, skills, experience and background. For this position, the salary range is $170,000 – $720,000.
The benefits package offered by Netflix is comprehensive, covering health insurance, mental health support, a 401(k) plan with employer contributions and stock options. Other programs include disability benefits, health savings and flexible spending accounts, family planning assistance, life and injury insurance and more. Full-time hourly employees accrue 35 days per year for vacation, holidays and sick leave, while full-time salaried employees enjoy flexible time off from day one. Detailed information on benefits is available on our website.
Company Culture and Diversity
Netflix offers a unique work culture built on innovation, autonomy and responsibility. Our approach to diversity is both serious and intentional. We celebrate differences in race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, medical conditions and other personal attributes. By fostering a culture of inclusion, we build strong teams and support individual growth. Netflix is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to a discrimination-free work environment and encouraging all individuals to bring their authentic selves to work.
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Netflix is a company that values diverse perspectives and ideas and we actively seek to bring people from all backgrounds and walks of life into our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of team will I be working with?
The Research Scientist will work within the Promo Media Algorithm team, collaborating with product managers, engineers and data scientists to define problems, set priorities and develop solutions.
How does Netflix support professional growth in this role?
Netflix encourages continuous learning by providing opportunities to attend conferences, engage with the ML community and implement new research findings. There is also room for initiating projects and exploring new directions within the team.
Is this position remote or onsite?
The job listing specifies that this role is onsite, meaning that the Research Scientist will work in one of Netflix’s physical locations to collaborate closely with their team.
What technologies are primarily used in this role?
The role requires a strong foundation in Machine Learning and Computer Vision, including technologies such as GANs, diffusion models and frameworks like PyTorch for developing and implementing solutions.
What is Netflix’s compensation structure for this role?
Netflix offers a market-competitive annual salary with no bonuses. Employees have flexibility in choosing their compensation mix between salary and stock options, with a range for this role from $170,000 to $720,000, based on market data, experience and skills.
What benefits are offered with this position?
Netflix provides comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, mental health support, a 401(k) plan with employer match, stock options and family planning benefits, along with flexible time-off policies for salaried employees.
How does Netflix approach diversity and inclusion?
Netflix is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment and values diversity in its teams. The company celebrates different backgrounds and perspectives, recognizing that they build stronger, more innovative teams.
What are the primary goals of the Promo Media Algorithm team?
The Promo Media Algorithm team aims to create tools that optimize the promotional media assets, like visuals and summaries, that appear to users. Their work ensures that Netflix members are presented with personalized, compelling content choices that align with their preferences.
