Principal Machine Learning Engineer, Search

Realtor.com Careers • Austin, TX

104d

About The Position

Realtor.com® has been at the forefront of online real estate for over 25 years, connecting buyers, sellers, and renters with trusted insights and expert guidance to find their perfect home. We're looking for a Principal Machine Learning Engineer to lead and innovate in redefining how search works in real estate. You'll play a crucial role in shaping the intelligence behind our search ranking and relevance models, leveraging state-of-the-art machine learning techniques to transform how users interact with our platform.

Requirements

• Masters/PhD in computer science, statistics, mathematics, operations research or related fields.
• 8+ years of relevant experience in data science, machine learning or applied statistics.
• Strong background in information retrieval, search ranking, recommendation systems, or related ML applications.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale ML projects and driving technical strategy.
• Advanced knowledge of Python, TensorFlow/PyTorch, and SQL.
• Extensive experience working with large-scale distributed systems and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS).
• Hands-on experience with search engines, such as Elasticsearch.
• Significant experience designing and deploying ML models at scale using cloud platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to tackle complex search and ranking challenges.
• Ability to articulate complex ML concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

• Publications, patents, or notable contributions to the field of machine learning, information retrieval, or search technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead Search Transformation with ML - Architect, design, and oversee the development of advanced machine learning models that power our core search ranking and relevance systems.
• Drive Personalization Strategy - Spearhead the development of sophisticated recommendation algorithms to tailor search results based on user behavior, preferences, and intent.
• Architect Scalable Data Pipelines - Design and optimize high-performance ETL pipelines to process massive datasets.
• Pioneer AI Innovation - Lead the application of cutting-edge techniques in NLP, deep learning, and reinforcement learning.
• Guide Experimentation & Iteration - Oversee the design, implementation, and analysis of A/B tests and multivariate experiments.
• Lead Production Deployment & Optimization - Architect and guide the deployment of ML models from experimentation to production using AWS, Docker, and scalable distributed systems.
• Foster Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work closely with engineering, product, and data science teams.
• Mentor and Develop Talent - Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior team members.

Benefits

• Inclusive and competitive medical, Rx, dental, and vision coverage.
• Family-forming benefits.
• 13 Paid Holidays.
• Flexible Time Off.
• 8 hours of paid Volunteer Time Off.
• Immediate eligibility into Company 401(k) plan with 3.5% company match.
• Tuition Reimbursement program for degreed and non-degreed programs.
• 1:1 personalized Financial Planning Sessions.
• Student Debt Retirement Savings Match program.
• Free snacks and refreshments in each office location.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees