Senior Backend Developer Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Apple Maps and the thousands of applications it empowers are being used by millions every single day! As a fundamental tool for human activity, Maps technology is evolving and new techniques are emerging.
We are looking for a Machine Learning Engineer to join and play a big part in the next revolution of Maps; to enable users to find more things in innovative ways. On our team, you will have plenty of opportunities to build groundbreaking technologies using Machine Learning and Generative AI at scale to improve the search quality for Apple Maps.
Description
The goal of Maps Search team is to take Apple’s Maps to the next level of intelligence and accuracy using machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques. Engineers and scientists on our team work on a wide spectrum of approaches to improve search experiences on Apple Maps.
In this role, some of the projects you will contribute to include but are not limited to:
* Develop and optimize Machine Learning algorithms to handle key issues in local search: query understanding, intent modeling, ranking and semantic search
* Design and develop tools, processes and analytics for backend data-extraction pipelines - along with performing hands-on analyses to answer hard hypotheses/questions.
* Collaborate with various teams (e.g., infrastructure, quality, data) to develop exciting features and contribute towards our mission of best search experience to our end-users.
* Develop and mentor aspiring applied scientists / engineers to expand their scope and have a big impact. Be part of building a world class search team!
* Develop and optimize Machine Learning algorithms to handle key issues in local search: query understanding, intent modeling, ranking and semantic search
* Design and develop tools, processes and analytics for backend data-extraction pipelines - along with performing hands-on analyses to answer hard hypotheses/questions.
* Collaborate with various teams (e.g., infrastructure, quality, data) to develop exciting features and contribute towards our mission of best search experience to our end-users.
* Develop and mentor aspiring applied scientists / engineers to expand their scope and have a big impact. Be part of building a world class search team!
Preferred Qualifications
Ph.D in computer science or equivalent field with 7+ years of industry experience.
Expertise and experience in various facets of machine learning and natural language processing, such as classification, feature engineering, information extraction, clustering, semi-supervised learning, topic modeling and ranking
Practical understanding of the mathematics behind modern machine learning, linear algebra and statistics.
Good knowledge of big data processing, prior experience with Hadoop, Spark, Hive is highly desired.
Proven expertise in applying Generative AI & Large Language Models (e.g., prompt engineering, model fine-tuning) to search or NLP tasks.
Prior experience in consumer facing product is desired.
Prior team lead experience is desired.
Minimum Qualifications
MS in computer science or equivalent field with 7+ years of industry experience
Proven record in delivering end-user facing Machine Learning driven products
Strong programming experience in one or more of the following: Java, C++, Python
Knowledge and experience with one of Tensorflow/Pytorch/Jax frameworks.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - working independently and/or in small teams
Attention to detail, data accuracy and quality of output.
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 $212,000 and $318,400, 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.