ML Data Operations Manager
Cupertino, California, United States
Software and Services
Summary
Posted: Jun 05, 2025
Role Number: 200607708
Would you like to contribute to generative AI and transform how people interact with AI technologies? Do you believe Machine Learning and AI can change the world? We truly believe it can! We are the Data PM team in SWE ML Data Operations responsible for building high-quality ML datasets at scale, used to train ML models that power AI-centric features for all platforms. Such features go from the smart wallpaper on your iPhone Lock Screen to the models that highlight the faces of your loved ones in your Photos app to input experiences (e.g., autocorrect, next-word prediction, handwriting recognition).
We are looking for a dedicated manager to lead a group of Program Managers and Project Managers who drive ML data operations (collection, annotation). Your team collaborates closely with R&D, in order to define and implement Data Programs that support their efforts and features, including generative technologies.
AI-centric products are the future of software. At their core, data is the source code of AI, a key component of innovation and inclusive and fair ML products. We invite you to join us at this exciting time! Grow fast and positively impact multiple critical features on your first day at Apple!
Description
This position focuses on leading a team dedicated to ML Data Operations (collection and annotation), to support R&D efforts within the Software Organization. This requires to:
Lead Data OPs strategy to support client organization, targeting excellence of data operations (scalability, time to delivery, quality and cost efficiency of annotations), in a @context of growing and evolving data needs (@types of assets, nature of labels, skills required). Assess, secure and monitor resources required to ensure success
Manage, mentor and grow a team of full time employees and contractors
In collaboration with our Data Program Manager, establish robust processes to facilitate the expression of needs, as well as the efficient planning, tracking and reporting of Data Programs
Drive or promote enhancements of data operations across features supported (increase diversity & quality, reduce cost & lead time), through innovative workflows that combine human and machine computation (using new capabilities of ML & foundation models)
Lead and develop relationship with customers (R&D), support teams (privacy, legal, procurement, security), internal partners (annotation platforms, other data annotation teams) and external parties
Promote sharing and re-usability of data across the org and beyond, in particular by setting standard processes in terms of documentation and ease of use of ML Data projects
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent experience
Preferred Qualifications
2+ years of management experience
2+ years of experience in ML Data Operations or ML R&D
Familiarity with pioneering ML techniques, including generative technologies (transformer architecture, CLIP and other visual and text embedding models, diffusion models)
Excellent problem-solving and program/project management skills
Strong communication and social skills
Demonstrated capacity to build solid relationships across organizations and functions (R&D, privacy and legal, tools & infrastructure...)
Ability to consistently innovate with technical tools, processes and partnerships (internal or external) that improve value across data lifecycle
Demonstrated ability to handle complex and large scale data ops projects (annotation, collection or QA) is a plus
Expertise is identifying erroneous, fraudulent or low quality data is a plus
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 $200,400 and $301,400, 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. (https://www.apple.com/careers/us/benefits.html)
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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088\EEOC\KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .
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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088\EEOC\KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .
Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation.
Apple participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law.Learn more about the E-Verify program (https://www.apple.com/jobs/pdf/EverifyPosterEnglish.pdf) .
Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .
Apple is a drug-free workplace. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .
Apple will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law. If you're applying for a position in San Francisco, review the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance guidelines applicable in your area.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
