Sr. Robotics AI Engineer

Summary

Our team leverages state-of-the-art AI to better understand and communicate with users via semantic and contextual intent understanding. We are looking for a Robotics AI Engineer to bring frontier reasoning and multimodal models to life in real-time, interactive experiences.

Description

In this role, you will translate natural user intents into robust, adaptive behaviors. You will work across the full stack of applied AI/ML: prompting and evaluating frontier models, distilling them into efficient on-device models, and deploying them on Apple silicon. A successful candidate is energized by rapidly experimenting with the latest AI models, tools, and agent harnesses, and has a strong foundation in modern machine learning with hands-on experience training and fine-tuning their own models. Above all, this is a deeply product-driven team that values engineers who have shipped real products and are motivated by putting great experiences into users' hands.

Responsibilities

Use frontier reasoning models to map user intent into robust, closed-loop plans that clarify, adapt and replan as the encompassing context changes
Build agent harnesses that ground model reasoning in the user's context and a structured set of system capabilities
Leverage multimodal models to understand user intent across audio, text & vision
Evaluate models by translating product requirements into the right set of metrics, and use them to systematically identify failures and drive improvements
Fine-tune and distill frontier models into smaller, efficient models for on-device use
Deploy and optimize models on Apple silicon for real-time, efficient and interactive performance
Rapidly prototype and assess the latest AI models, tools, and agent harnesses to advance product capabilities

Minimum Qualifications

BS or MS in Computer Science or Machine Learning
Strong background in and deep understanding of modern machine learning methods
Experience training or fine-tuning your own transformer and/or diffusion models
Proficiency using coding agents such as Claude Code and Codex
Genuine excitement for experimenting with the latest AI models, tools, and multimodal capabilities

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or a related field
Experience with model fine-tuning and distillation for efficient, on-device deployment
Hands-on experience with inference engines such as llama.cpp, vLLM, MLX, or Core ML
Experience building agent harnesses for multi-step, closed-loop reasoning
Track record of shipping products to users
Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks (PyTorch or TensorFlow)

Pay & Benefits — Cupertino, California, United States

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 $184,700 and $324,800, 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.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.