Software Engineer - Machine Learning

About the role

Figma is seeking a versatile and experienced Machine Learning / AI Engineer to join our growing AI team. This is a high-impact, cross-functional role where you'll shape both foundational systems and user-facing capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and productionize ML models for Search, Discovery, Ranking, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), and generative AI features.
• Build and maintain scalable data pipelines to collect high-quality training and evaluation datasets, including annotation systems and human-in-the-loop workflows.
• Collaborate with AI researchers to iterate on datasets, evaluation metrics, and model architectures to improve quality and relevance.
• Work with product engineers to define and deliver impactful AI features across Figma’s platform.
• Partner with infrastructure engineers to develop and optimize systems for training, inference, monitoring, and deployment.
• Explore new ideas at the edge of what’s technically possible and help shape the long-term AI vision at Figma.

Requirements

• 5+ years of industry experience in software engineering, with 3+ years focused on applied machine learning or AI.
• Strong experience with end-to-end ML model development, including training, evaluation, deployment, and monitoring.
• Proficiency in Python and familiarity with ML libraries like PyTorch, TensorFlow, Scikit-learn, Spark MLlib, or XGBoost.
• Experience designing and building scalable data and annotation pipelines, as well as evaluation systems for AI model quality.
• Experience mentoring or leading others and contributing to a culture of technical excellence and innovation.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with search relevance, ranking, NLP, or RAG systems.
• Experience with AI infrastructure and MLOps, including observability, CI/CD, and automation for ML workflows.
• Experience working on creative or design-focused ML applications.
• Knowledge of additional languages such as C++ or Go is a plus, but not required.
• A product mindset with the ability to tie technical work to user outcomes and business impact.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, especially when working across functions (engineering, product, research).