AIML Data Operations - Annotations Team Manager

Apple • Cupertino, CA

4h

About The Position

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, great ideas have a way of becoming great products, services, and customer experiences very quickly! Behind every groundbreaking AI innovation at Apple is a foundation of high-quality annotated data—and behind that foundation is exceptional leadership. We're looking for a Manager of Annotation Operations to lead a team of program managers who play a critical role in ensuring the quality and efficiency of this vital process. You will set strategic direction for how your team engages with customers across Apple's ecosystem, ensuring the delivery of high-quality annotated data that enables AI advancements across the company. You will be responsible for developing your team's capabilities, establishing scalable processes and frameworks, and ensuring follow-through on all program commitments from cross-functional operations and engineering teams. You will proactively identify opportunities and risks across your portfolio, seeing around corners to position your team for success. Imagine being at the heart of Apple's AI revolution, leading the team that ensures our machine learning models are trained with the highest quality data. As a Manager in Annotation Operations, you'll build and guide the vital link between our innovative teams and the data they need to create the next generation of Apple products and features.

Are you passionate about building high-performing teams at the intersection of technology and human understanding? Do you thrive in collaborative environments where your leadership, communication skills, and technical expertise can make a real difference? As a Manager in Annotation Operations, you'll be at the core of our AIML development process, leading a team of program managers who collaborate with cross-functional teams to define annotation requirements, manage operational projects from prototype to scale, and ensure customer satisfaction. You will set the strategic vision for how your team operates while remaining hands-on when complex challenges require your direct involvement. You will proactively anticipate issues, remove blockers for your team, and establish the frameworks and best practices that enable consistent excellence. You will coach your team through difficult situations, develop their skills in stakeholder management and technical problem-solving, and create a culture of ownership and accountability. Your work will directly contribute to the success of the next generation of Apple products and features. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of annotation operations at Apple, building scalable processes and developing talent in the rapidly evolving field of AIML, while working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.

Requirements

• 12+ years of experience managing complex, cross-functional programs across global teams, with a proven track record of delivering results at scale
• 4+ years of experience managing and developing high-performing teams, including coaching managers or senior individual contributors
• Demonstrated ability to set strategic direction while remaining hands-on with operational details when needed
• Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior leadership
• Exceptional ability to understand and consolidate multiple points of view into influential recommendations that move initiatives forward
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders at all levels
• A relentless focus on delivering results and exceeding expectations, with a track record of driving ownership and accountability across teams
• Strategic problem-solver with a passion for continuous improvement and a proven ability to identify and resolve bottlenecks before they impact delivery
• Self-motivated and proactive leader who thrives in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and empowers teams to do the same
• Experience driving process improvements across operations, quality, and vendor management
• Strong decision-making abilities and sound judgment in high-pressure situations

Nice To Haves

• Experience managing annotation operations or data operations teams at scale
• Deep understanding of data annotation tools, workflows, and quality assurance processes
• Strong understanding of machine learning concepts, methodologies, and data requirements
• Experience with budget management, financial forecasting, and vendor management
• Background working with sensitive content including safety and responsible AI initiatives
• BS degree required; MBA or advanced degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or similar technical field preferred

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager