AIML - Staff Machine Learning Engineer, Retrieval and Ranking Quality (SII)

Summary: We are looking for a Machine Learning engineering technical leader with a passion for using machine learning to create intelligent search applications. Our team researches and implements novel retrieval and ranking techniques, machine learning algorithms, and models that power amazing Search experiences across Apple products. We are looking for an ambitious technical leader to join our ML group. This role will have the opportunity to initiate and lead exciting projects to further shape the state of retrieval and ranking quality at Apple. As a Staff Machine Learning engineer, you will use innovative data mining, machine learning, and data-driven analytical skills to solve challenging technical problems and ship novel products that will delight millions of people!

Description: This role will have the chance to create and evaluate new retrieval and ranking algorithms, models, and methods that will impact Apple and the broad AIML community. Role responsibilities include:

1. Lead the research, design, implementation, and evaluation of algorithms and models to enhance the quality and performance of personalized retrieval and ranking systems.
2. Use advanced NLP, deep learning, and LLM techniques to understand and match complex queries with relevant content.
3. Analyze loss patterns in the current search and assistant stack and come up with insights, algorithms, and techniques to resolve quality gaps with the goal of improving the top-line product metrics.
4. Develop a long-term technical vision; propose a roadmap for the team setting clear objectives.
5. Collaborate with cross-functional teams across the company to define product requirements and prioritize ranking criteria that optimize user satisfaction.
6. Continuously improve the metrics and performance of models the team has launched in production by leveraging innovative ML techniques.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in Machine Learning, NLP, Large Language Models, and applying these techniques at scale.
• 3+ years of experience in a technical leadership role; overseeing technically complex projects along with mentoring junior engineers, scaling, and growing technical teams.
• Strong software engineering skills in mainstream programming languages, such as: Python, Go, C/C++.
• Strong communication skills.
• Bachelor's in Computer Science and industry work experience.

Key Qualifications Preferred Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge and expertise in Information Retrieval, Ranking, or Recommendation Systems.
• Extensive experience in building production-quality systems or applications in search, recommendation systems, or information retrieval.
• Experience using ML frameworks (PyTorch, JAX, TensorFlow, XGBoost, etc.).
• Ability to quickly prototype ideas/solutions, and perform critical analysis.
• Background in personalization, user behavior modeling, and data-driven decision-making.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Computer Science, Statistics, or related field, or equivalent industry work experience.

Education & Experience Additional Requirements:

Pay & Benefits: At Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $175,800 and $312,200, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation. Learn more about Apple Benefits.

Note: Apple benefit, compensation, and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

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