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Functional Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Test Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

This role will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define, execute, and interpret test requirements for components and systems, while ensuring technical accuracy, reliability, and ...

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Leads and plans projects with diverse cross-functional engineering teams to successfully execute programs within budget and schedule * Develop software system plans and architectures tied to mission ...

General knowledge of other closely related cross functional engineer disciplines, including, controls, software and electrical engineering. * Familiarity with data acquisition and control hardware ...

Functional NetSuite Finance Sme--This is NOT a NetSuite Developer or Admin resource! Location: Sunnyvale, Ca Duration: 6 Months • Hands-on Functional NetSuite experience--configuring, customizing ...

Functional QA Engineer (Apple/Beats) Location: Culver City/Los Angeles, CA Duration : 1+ year (potential for conversion) Our client, a leader in consumer electronics, is looking for a "Functional QA ...

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Functional Engineer information

What is the difference between Functional Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFunctional EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in systems or softwareBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly PE license
Work EnvironmentSystems, software, or product development settingsManufacturing, design, and testing labs
Industry UsageTechnology, automation, and systems integrationAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search IntentDesigning and optimizing functions within systemsDesigning mechanical components and systems

Functional Engineers focus on designing and improving system functions, often in software or integrated systems, while Mechanical Engineers work on mechanical components and machinery. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in their specific applications and work environments.

What are Functional Engineers?

Functional Engineers are professionals who bridge the gap between business requirements and technical solutions in an organization. They analyze business processes, gather and document requirements, and translate them into functional specifications that technical teams can use to develop or modify systems. Functional Engineers often work closely with stakeholders, developers, and project managers to ensure that software or systems meet the intended business needs. Their role is crucial in ensuring that technology solutions are both effective and user-friendly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Functional Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Functional Engineer, you need a strong background in systems analysis, process optimization, and requirements gathering, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with business process management tools, ERP systems like SAP, and relevant certifications such as CBAP or Six Sigma is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and stakeholder management are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that technical solutions align closely with business needs, driving successful project outcomes and operational efficiency.

How does a Functional Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Functional Engineers play a vital role in bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders. They frequently work alongside project managers, developers, testers, and end-users to gather requirements, clarify functional specifications, and ensure that the final product aligns with business needs. Throughout the project lifecycle, they facilitate communication, coordinate user acceptance testing, and support the resolution of any functional discrepancies. This collaborative approach ensures that solutions are both technically sound and functionally effective.
Infographic showing various Functional Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Software Engineer in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML)

Software Engineer in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML)

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

Are you interested in building amazing Generative AI experiences that will touch the lives of billions of people by utilizing state-of-the-art NLP and machine learning? Do you enjoy collaboration and team work to accomplish innovative ML driven user experiences? We are looking for a Software Engineer who is passionate about translating expertise in NLP and ML into impactful applications for users. ..The role allows you to be a highly multi-functional engineer with plenty of opportunities to collaborate cross-functionally and get high visibility for your work. Our team is responsible for the Research, Development and Deployment of ML/NLP technologies that power Apple Intelligence on device and on private compute cloud. Our team was also responsible for building Generative AI experiences for Writing Tools, Smart Replies, Transformer Models for Keyboard across all Apple Platforms. ..Our team has a great mix of talent across NLP, Software Engineering and Machine Learning. We love to share our knowledge within our team, stay abreast of state-of-the-art and deliver outstanding products for our users. We also have a strong culture of multi-functional collaboration across teams at Apple.
As a member of this premier team, you will work on the intersection of NLP, Machine Learning and Software Engineering. The position requires proven hands-on NLP experience in conjunction with Software Engineering. The role spans the entire gamut of NLP: text processing, empirical experimentation for building state-of-the-art NLP models, productizing Generative AI features for Apple. You will collaborate closely with several engineering teams at Apple that work on machine learning and NLP.
Experience writing production software (Swift, C/C++, Obj-C, Python)Good machine learning (ML) fundamentalsB.S, M.S. or PhD in Computer Science or a related field
Hands-on experience in using open-source ML toolkits, e.g., PyTorchHands-on experience with building NLP/Generative AI applicationsExcellent communication and organizational skills

What Apple employees say

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976