Language Specialist - Japanese

About DeepL

DeepL is a globally recognized AI company dedicated to creating reliable, intelligent solutions for complex business challenges. Trusted by over 200,000 enterprises and millions of users in 228 markets worldwide, DeepL's Language AI platform delivers human-like translations, enhanced writing, and real-time voice translation services. Established in 2017 and currently employing around 1,000 team members, DeepL is backed by leading investors such as Benchmark, IVP, and Index Ventures. Our mission is to become the foremost provider of trusted AI technologies that promote better communication, foster human connections, and make a significant impact.

Role Overview

As a Japanese Language Specialist, you will partner with teams across Research and Product to refine our AI-driven language technology. You will analyze and assess linguistic data, test new features before release, and provide feedback to improve machine translation quality. This role involves collaborating with a global team of language experts, guiding freelance linguists, and leveraging AI tools to optimize workflows. Your expertise will influence how "good" Japanese translation is defined at DeepL and impact the experience of millions of users globally.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a linguistic advisor for Japanese across the organization, collaborating with departments including Research, Product, and Sales to develop innovative language solutions.
• Conduct thorough testing and evaluation of DeepL products and new features pre- and post-launch.
• Review the quality of linguistic data created by both human contributors and machine translation outputs.
• Create assessment materials to identify suitable freelance linguists for various projects.
• Provide constructive feedback to freelance linguists to align their work with project requirements and quality standards.
• Work with complex and ambiguous language datasets, including Japanese and at least one additional foreign language.
• Investigate and analyze language-related user complaints to provide expert linguistic insights.
• Collaborate on designing experiments and evaluation methods, applying linguistic knowledge to guide testing and validation processes.
• Explore AI technologies to enhance individual and team productivity and efficiency.
• Communicate linguistic concepts clearly to diverse audiences, ranging from non-experts to fellow language professionals.

Qualifications

• Native or near-native proficiency in Japanese with deep cultural and professional understanding, typically acquired through education or extensive experience in Japan.
• Advanced English proficiency (level C1 or higher).
• A bachelor's degree in linguistics, translation, foreign languages, language education, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of two years' professional experience in translation, localization, linguistics, education, or a similar field.
• Proven ability to simplify complex linguistic issues for audiences without linguistic backgrounds.
• Comprehensive knowledge of authoritative Japanese linguistic resources.
• Strong grasp of best practices in linguistic research.
• Experience with machine translation and the ability to identify typical error patterns in automated language outputs.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with AI prompting, and basic understanding of large language models (LLMs), natural language processing (NLP), AI technologies, or experience working with AI-based workflows.
• Adaptability to dynamic work environments.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within teams.

What We Provide

• Join a diverse, international team representing over 90 nationalities, working across countries such as the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, the US, and Japan.
• An organizational culture prioritizing open communication and regular, constructive feedback with empathy and a growth mindset.
• A hybrid working model with two days per week onsite presence and adaptable flexible working hours aligned with team time zones.
• Equity participation via Virtual Shares, linking your work to DeepL's growth and success.
• Frequent in-person team events, including local gatherings, onboarding activities, and company-wide sessions.
• Monthly Hack Fridays dedicated to pursuing passion projects and cross-team collaboration.
• 20 days of annual paid leave excluding public holidays, along with resources supporting mental health.
• A competitive, regionally tailored benefits program designed to support diverse team members worldwide.

Diversity and Inclusion

DeepL is committed to equal opportunity and welcomes authenticity from all employees. We value diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, believing that diversity fuels innovation and helps break down language barriers globally.