Software Engineering Program Manager - Video Computer Vision (CV/ML/ALGO) at Apple in Sunnyvale

Job description

• Apple’s Imaging and Computer Vision team develops cutting-edge algorithms and foundation models that power industry-defining visual, spatial, and multimodal user experiences. We are seeking an energetic, technically minded Software Engineering Program Manager (CV/ML/Algorithms) to partner closely with research scientists and software engineers, helping bridge algorithmic research and production software delivery.
• In this role, you will support the algorithm lifecycle: coordinating exploratory research milestones, tracking data collection and curation pipelines, organizing model evaluation results, and assisting with integration on Apple silicon. The ideal candidate pairs a strong foundation in computer science or machine learning with exceptional organizational skills, high curiosity, and a drive to solve technical challenges. If you are passionate about computer vision, machine learning, and bringing cutting-edge technology to life, we would love to hear from you!
• In this role, you will collaborate with research scientists, engineers, and senior EPMs to support the development and delivery of next-generation visual technologies.
• Support Delivery & Project Cadence: Track project schedules, sprint milestones, and deliverables across computer vision and ML algorithm workstreams from early concept to platform integration.
• Coordinate Cross-Functional Dependencies: Partner with senior EPMs to track dependencies between research teams, system software, platform teams, and quality assurance to keep critical paths unblocked.
• Organize Empirical Evaluation & Benchmarks: Assist scientists and engineers in tracking offline/online evaluation results, regression test suites, and data collection initiatives to monitor model performance over time.
• Identify & Escalate Risks: Monitor timelines, track open technical issues, and proactively flag data or timeline bottlenecks before they impact delivery.
• Team Communication & Reporting: Prepare clear meeting summaries, status dashboards, and project tracking documentation for engineering syncs and team reviews.
• Leverage Modern Tooling: Explore and implement AI-assisted tools, scripts, and programmatic automations to enhance daily program tracking and team efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Foundational Technical & Algorithmic Acumen: Solid theoretical understanding of Computer Vision and Machine Learning fundamentals (model training, evaluation metrics, data preprocessing) gained through coursework, research, internships, or industry experience.
• Exceptional Organization & Execution: Highly structured mindset with a natural aptitude for tracking moving parts, managing checklists, and bringing clarity to ambiguous technical environments.
• Analytical & Systems Curiosity: Ability to understand technical trade-offs involving model accuracy, runtime performance, latency, and resource constraints on target hardware.
• Data-Centric Mindset: Familiarity with data workflows, including handling real and synthetic datasets, annotation pipelines, benchmark tracking, and experiment reporting.
• Clear Communication & Organization: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to distill technical updates, track action items, and synthesize complex project status clearly for engineering teams.
• Adaptability & Initiative: Self-starter who thrives in dynamic, fast-paced research environments with the ability to bring structure to ambiguous technical challenges.
• Modern Developer & AI Tooling: Active user of modern developer tools, scripting (e.g., Python), automation workflows, and generative AI tools to streamline processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• Hands-on coding experience (Python, C++, or similar) through internships, open-source projects, or university research labs.
• Prior experience working directly with Computer Vision, Deep Learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow), or data annotation pipelines.
• Experience & Execution: 0–2 years of relevant experience in technical program management, software project coordination, or hands-on software/algorithm engineering (including internships or academic lab leadership).

Skills

Required

• Analytical and systems curiosity
• Data-centric mindset
• Clear communication and organization
• Adaptability and initiative

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 $59.49 and $89.84/hr, 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.