Contract Apple Machine Learning Engineer Jobs in Renton, WA

Join Apple's innovative iOS Robotics team within Wireless Technologies and Ecosystems (WTE). We're expanding the DockKit Framework's focus on accessories, algorithms, and user experiences to make iOS a leading platform for Perception Algorithm development. As an Embedded Machine Learning Engineer, you'll deploy efficient, low-power ML models directly onto embedded hardware, driving advanced, on-device intelligent experiences for millions of users in robotics and intelligent systems.
Description
This role offers a unique opportunity to innovate at the intersection of AI and embedded hardware. You will transform advanced ML algorithms into highly optimized, power-efficient code for custom silicon and microcontrollers in Apple products, specifically for robotics. You'll tackle complex challenges like memory constraints, computational budgets, and real-time performance, ensuring ML models deliver exceptional user experiences while adhering to Apple’s privacy and power efficiency standards.
","responsibilities":"Design and implement efficient ML inference pipelines on resource-constrained embedded hardware.
Optimize neural network models (e.g., quantization, pruning) for performance, memory, and power on edge devices.
Develop and integrate robust C/C++ low-level software for deploying ML models on microcontrollers, DSPs, and ML accelerators.
Analyze and debug performance bottlenecks and power consumption across the hardware/software stack for ML workloads.
Collaborate with ML researchers, hardware engineers, and platform teams to deliver high-quality, power-efficient edge AI solutions.
Evaluate and recommend embedded platforms, toolchains, and ML frameworks for on-device intelligence applications.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ML inference hardware acceleration (DSPs, NPUs, ASICs).Familiarity with diverse neural network architectures and training methodologies for efficient edge deployment.
Knowledge of computer vision, NLP, or audio processing in an embedded/robotics context.
Experience with embedded Linux or other RTOS in a production environment.
Contributions to open-source embedded ML projects or relevant publications.
Proficiency with Python for automation and data analysis.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (3+ years experience) or Master’s degree (2+ year experience) in CS, EE, or a related technical field.
Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems development, including RTOS, microcontrollers, and low-level hardware interactions.
Proven ability to optimize and deploy ML models for resource-constrained edge devices using techniques like - quantization/pruning and frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow Lite, ONNX Runtime, Core ML).
Strong analytical and debugging skills to resolve performance bottlenecks across hardware, firmware, and ML inference.
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 $142,300 and $263,300, 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.