Apple

Staff Machine Learning Research Engineer, App Store Search

Apple$130K — $180K *
Consumer Technology
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of industry experience in machine learning and data systems
  • Familiarity with search, recommendation systems, or conversational engines
  • Strong knowledge of generative AI including Large Language Models and Transformers
  • Experience with distributed ML frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow
  • Exceptional communication skills and a problem-solving track record
  • MS or Ph.D. in Computer Science or related field (preferred)
  • 7+ years of hands-on experience with search and conversational systems (preferred)

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and development of next-generation search features
  • Enhance conversational discovery for Apple's platforms
  • Collaborate with team to solve complex, ambiguous problems
  • Implement large-scale ML data systems
  • Develop robust big data pipelines and services
  • Guide the team in adopting new AI technologies
  • Conduct A/B testing for data-driven product development

Benefits

  • Work in a collaborative and innovative environment
  • Opportunity to impact millions of Apple users worldwide
  • Access to cutting-edge technology and resources
  • Guidance from a team of experienced professionals
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
Full Job Description
Description

The ASE Search team is a vital part of Apple ecosystem, powering search for App Store, Apple Music, Apple TV, Podcasts, Books, iTunes and more, on a wide set of platforms such as iOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, Safari, and 3rd party devices. Driven by passion for the extraordinary rather than the easy, our team of problem solvers, is dedicated to helping users discover media and content in exciting new ways. We are looking for extraordinary and motivated machine learning researchers and engineers to join us in our journey. As a Senior/Staff Machine Learning Research on the ASE Search team, you will lead the design and development of next-generation search and conversational discovery features for Apple's ground breaking devices and platforms.

Minimum Qualifications

3+ years of relevant industry experience building large-scale ML & data systems

Familiarity with search or recommendation systems, conversational engines, or related domains

Strong knowledge of generative AI systems including Large Language Models, Transformers, Reinforcement Learning, RAG, and agentic patterns such as ReAct, Chain-of-Thought, Tool Use, and Multi-Agent orchestration

Experience with one or more distributed ML training frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, Ray, or JAX, and inference engines like TensorRT or vLLM

Technical leader with exceptional communication skills and a track record of solving complex, ambiguous problems in a highly collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications

MS or Ph.D. in Computer Science or related subject area

Proven ability to build & scale Search & Conversational systems, applying 7+ years of hand-on experience across the full product stack - including query understanding, semantic retrieval, multi-stage ranking, indexing, intent classification, and context-aware generation.

Deep expertise in Search & Conversational systems, bringing in 7+ years of hands-on experience building capabilities such as query understanding, retrieval, ranking, indexing, autocomplete, intent resolution, and context-aware generation across multiple domains.

Proficient in developing robust big data pipelines in Scala or Python using distributed processing frameworks like Apache Spark.

Familiarity with scalable, reliable distributed backend services including Kubernetes, cloud infrastructure, and container orchestration

Familiarity with A/B experimentation and data-driven product development

About Apple

Apple is a corporation that designs, manufactures, and markets mobile communication and media devices, personal computers, portable digital music players, and sells a variety of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications. Apple provides many products and services, including iPhone; iPad; iPod; Mac; Apple TV; a portfolio of consumer and professional software applications; the iOS and OS X operating systems; iCloud; and accessories, service, and support offerings. It sells its products worldwide through its retail stores, online stores, direct sales force and third-party cellular network carriers, wholesalers, retailers, and value-added resellers to the consumer and also sells third-party iPhone, iPad, Mac and iPod compatible products, including application software and accessories through its online and retail stores. Introduced in 1984, the Macintosh was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface (GUI). That feature and others such as an improved floppy drive design and a low-cost hard drive that made data retrieval faster helped Apple cultivate a reputation for innovation. Apple was named as the most admired company in the United States in 2008 and in the world from 2008 to 2012 by the Fortune magazine. The company was founded by Steven Paul Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Gerald Wayne on April 1, 1976, and is headquartered in Cupertino, California.

Apple Careers

Join Apple, a place where extraordinary people gather to do their best work. Our ever-expanding global team is at the forefront of innovation and leadership in the tech industry. At Apple, we're not just building products—we're crafting the kind of wonder that revolutionizes entire industries. It's the diversity of our people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry-leading environmental efforts. Work You’ll Do Embark on a journey with Apple’s market-leading team to help some of the world’s most influential companies navigate their path to digital mastery with cutting-edge technology and services. Transform industries and touch lives with your unique ideas at Apple. Here, you’ll lead through a unique position at the intersection of technology, creativity, and robust industry expertise. Collaborate with a global team of professionals who are at the top of their game in technology and design. Apple isn’t just a company, it’s a community of innovators and passionate thinkers. Introducing the Apple Innovation and Leadership Initiative We are building a market-leading team to drive our efforts in delivering groundbreaking solutions and services. At Apple, job opportunities are abundant, offering you the chance to explore diverse roles from engineering to marketing, all designed to empower your career growth. Do Innovative Work Join the largest group of creative and technical experts in the world—professionals dedicated to redefining what’s possible through technology and innovation. Deliver targeted solutions through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s unmatched, driving forward our commitment to excellence and leadership in every project we undertake. Be Part of a Great Team Engage in a wide range of projects utilizing Apple’s technology and resources. Harness the unparalleled capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development that only Apple can offer. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with limitless opportunities at Apple. Go as far as your ambition takes you with unmatched training, development, and certification support. Explore Discover how Apple is leading the way in tech innovation: [With iOS] Businesses can streamline operations and enhance customer interactions... READ MORE Smart home technology integration that sets the standard for convenience and security... READ MORE The Apple Experience Our combined service capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development help clients overcome challenges and lead transformation in their industries. Clients worldwide look to Apple for new strategies and solutions that drive growth and innovation in the digital era. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Whether you’re seeking a professional role, an internship, or a leadership position, Apple offers a variety of employment opportunities. SEARCH APPLE JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Apple, a company committed to diversity, innovation, and leadership. Explore job opportunities, employment benefits, and the culture of growth and innovation at Apple. Prepare your resume, hone your interview skills, and ready yourself for a career at one of the most prestigious companies in the world. Join us in pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Learn more about Apple
Size
154,000 employees
Market Cap
$2,074.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$63.9 billion
Founded
1976
5 Year Trend
+11.5%
Revenue
$294.1 billion
NASDAQ

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