Senior Staff Machine Learning Engineer – Ads Prediction, Signals & Quality

We are seeking an experienced Machine Learning Engineer to drive innovation in ad prediction, quality, and privacy-preserving signals. This role spans three critical areas: building large-scale prediction models, designing signals that respect user privacy, and ensuring ad quality that aligns with Apple’s values of trust and transparency. You will set technical direction, lead complex initiatives, and mentor engineers while collaborating closely with research, infrastructure, and product teams.

This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of privacy-first advertising at Apple. You’ll work with some of the best engineers and researchers in the field, solve problems at massive scale, and deliver models that respect users while driving meaningful outcomes for advertisers.

10+ years of experience applying ML at scale in ads, recommender systems, content ranking, or related domains.
Strong expertise in deep learning architectures (Transformers, LLMs, DNNs) and training frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
Proven track record in prediction systems (CTR, CVR, or related) and explore/exploit strategies (bandits, RL).
Experience with privacy-preserving ML (federated learning, differential privacy, homomorphic encryption, secure multiparty computation) is preferred.
Familiarity with large-scale data pipelines, A/B testing infrastructure, and production experimentation.
Strong coding skills in Python and production experience in at least one of: Scala, Java, C++.
Ability to set technical direction, influence cross-functional stakeholders, and deliver business impact.
Bachelor's in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or a related technical field.

MS or PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or related discipline.
Published research or open-source contributions in ads, ranking, privacy-preserving ML, or large-scale prediction systems.
Experience leading multi-team or cross-org initiatives with measurable business and user impact.
Deep expertise in signals engineering for ads quality, trust & safety, or search relevance.

MS or PhD, or equivalent experience, in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Information Retrieval, or a related field.
Great foundation in information retrieval, including query-document matching, embedding-based ranking, and learning-to-rank algorithms is a plus

At Apple, we focus deeply on our customers’ experience. Apple Ads brings this same approach to advertising, helping people find exactly what they’re looking for and helping advertisers grow their businesses!

Our technology powers ads and sponsorships across Apple Services, including the App Store, Apple News, and MLS Season Pass. Everything we do is designed for trust, connection, and impact: We respect user privacy, integrate advertising thoughtfully into the experience, and deliver value for advertisers of all sizes—from small app developers to big, global brands. Because when advertising is done right, it benefits everyone!

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 $386,300, 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.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote 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

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

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Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.