Machine Learning Manager Jobs in California
Machine Learning Manager jobs in California represent one of the most active and competitive markets in the country, with demand concentrated in enterprise software, cloud infrastructure, autonomous systems, and biotech across seniority levels from lead ML engineer stepping into management through senior director of machine learning. The highest volume of openings is in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, and San Diego, where established employers such as Google, Apple, and Qualcomm consistently hire for these roles. The most sought-after specialties in California are large language model deployment, MLOps and model governance, and computer vision applied to healthcare or autonomous vehicles. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Do you believe that generative models can fundamentally change how people interact with devices? Are you excited by the possibility of connecting people to unprecedented levels of creativity? Come join the team that turned cutting edge Generative AI research into compelling user experiences through Apple Intelligence.
We are part of the Intelligent System Experiences team at Apple and work on the core modeling technology behind Genmoji, Image Playground and Image Wand. From web-scale datasets to distributed training of foundation models, application specific adapters to on-device optimizations, you will have the unique opportunity to advance and ship state-of-the-art technology that impacts Apple users around the world!
Description
We are seeking an experienced Machine Learning Manager to lead a team of ML engineers focused on building new capabilities and delivering step-change quality improvements for our Visual Generation foundation models. The ideal candidate brings a proven blend of strategic thinking and product focus to solving deep technical research problems, specifically around driving data excellence for foundation model training. Typical projects involve leveraging billion-scale datasets, applying machine learning models to enrich data, and executing quality-focused data curation strategies.
In this role, you will work closely with cross-functional partners, including ML research, modeling, policy, and responsible AI teams, to maintain the highest standards of execution and safety. You will stay at the forefront of the latest AI research to rapidly apply impactful developments while simultaneously pioneering proprietary, experimental ideas designed specifically for Apple’s unique ecosystem.
Minimum Qualifications
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M.S. or PhD in Computer Science or a related field such as Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or equivalent experience
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3+ years of experience as an ML Manager, leading teams through modern computer vision and generative AI research
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Experience managing cross-functional projects, connecting initiatives to engineers' interests, and helping engineers grow through mentorship and empathy
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8+ years of experience training state-of-the-art generative or understanding models
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Proficiency in ML frameworks and distributed data processing pipelines as a hands-on technical leader
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Excellent communication skills and an ability to drive clarity in ambiguous circumstances
Preferred Qualifications
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Prior hands-on research experience working with data and building models
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Recent projects and experience with modern visual generative AI for images or videos
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Track record of strong industrial research, including delivery of complex projects or publications in top-tier venues
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 $198,300 and $342,800, 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.
See All 136+ Machine Learning Manager Jobs in California
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Find Machine Learning Manager JobsMachine Learning Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Machine Learning Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Apple20

- NVIDIA9

- Zoox8

- Google7

- Capital One6

Top Industries Hiring
- Technology & Software61
- Electronics & Hardware19
- Banking & Financial Services11
- Automotive8
- Consulting & Professional Services8
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in machine learning manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, statistics, or a related quantitative field
- Five or more years of hands-on machine learning engineering or research experience
- Demonstrated experience managing or mentoring a team of ML engineers or data scientists
- Proficiency in Python and ML frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX
- Experience designing and shipping ML systems at production scale in cloud environments
- Strong cross-functional communication skills for partnering with product and engineering leadership
Machine Learning Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a machine learning manager in California?
The most direct path is building several years of hands-on ML engineering or research experience and then transitioning into a team lead or staff engineer role before moving into management. California does not require a state-issued license for this role. Employers here consistently prioritize a graduate degree in computer science, applied mathematics, or a related field, along with a portfolio of shipped production ML systems and evidence of mentoring or technical leadership within a cross-functional team.
Which companies hire machine learning managers in California?
Employers hiring machine learning managers in California right now include Apple, NVIDIA, and Zoox, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's concentration of major tech headquarters, defense contractors, and life sciences companies means hiring is unusually broad, covering both consumer-facing AI products and deep research environments.
Which California cities have the most machine learning manager jobs?
San Francisco, Cupertino, and San Jose have the most machine learning manager openings in California. The Bay Area dominates due to the density of major tech headquarters and AI-focused startups in San Francisco, Mountain View, and Sunnyvale, while Los Angeles draws openings from entertainment technology and aerospace firms, and San Diego's concentration of defense contractors and biotech companies sustains steady demand as well.
Are there remote machine learning manager jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 22% of machine learning manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, reflecting how much of this work centers on code, model experimentation, and asynchronous collaboration rather than physical presence. The portions of the role most commonly done fully remotely are model evaluation, roadmap planning, and code review, while cross-functional alignment and team development often draw managers back on-site at least part of the week.
How can I get hired as a machine learning manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing an individual contributor ML engineering or data science role at a large California employer and pursuing an internal promotion into a lead or manager position. Companies such as Meta, Salesforce, and Adobe run structured rotation and mentorship programs that develop senior ICs into managers. Lateral moves from adjacent roles like data engineering manager or applied research scientist are common. A strong GitHub portfolio, a published model, or completion of an advanced degree from a UC system campus can accelerate that transition.
Where can I find and apply to machine learning manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to machine learning manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings. Find a role that fits and apply directly from the listing.
See All 136+ Machine Learning Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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