Job Details

SW Performance Engineer

San Diego, California, United States

Software and Services

Summary

Posted: Aug 27, 2025

Role Number: 200618204-3543

Apple's Audio and Media Technologies group is seeking a highly skilled Software Engineer to join our Streaming Media team. You will shape the future of media on a global scale. Our team pioneered and standardized the HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) protocol, and we are now seeking a dedicated Software Engineer to define what comes next in the world of Streaming.

In this role, you won't just build an app—you will contribute to the core media frameworks that are an integral part of iOS, macOS, tvOS, watchOS, and the revolutionary visionOS. As we extend our technology to power groundbreaking experiences, your code will become the backbone of media for billions of users worldwide.

If you are excited to solve unique challenges across a diverse hardware ecosystem, from iPhone and Apple Watch to the new frontier of spatial computing, we want to hear from you.

Description

As a Streaming Media Software Engineer, your mission is to both architect the future of Streaming technology and perfect its performance. You'll design and build the next generation of streaming experiences that will define how people interact with media. You will dive deep into our Core Media engine to not only minimize memory usage and improve battery life, but also to achieve scalability. Your challenge is to ignite the full power of Apple Silicon for demanding experiences like Multi-View, all while operating elegantly within a tight thermal budget. Your code will make the impossible feel effortless on every device—from the most compact Apple Watch to the immersive canvas of Apple Vision Pro.

Minimum Qualifications

• A strong command of C, with deep expertise in building robust, thread-safe systems and taming concurrency with advanced synchronization.

• A profound understanding of the operating system from the metal up—from virtual memory and CPU scheduling to I/O and memory management.

• Proven ability to hunt down and solve the most complex bugs using your expert knowledge of system profiling and analysis tools (GDB/LLDB, Instruments, Wireshark, etc.).

• BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced studies (MS/PhD) in a related field, demonstrating a deeper exploration of computer science principles.

• Experience designing and architecting complex, scalable software systems.

• A history of resolving intricate threading or memory bugs, especially in resource-constrained embedded environments.

• Familiarity with Objective-C, which is foundational to many of Apple's frameworks.

• A proven track record of driving complex projects to completion in a large, multi-functional engineering environment.

• Exceptional time management and the ability to navigate competing priorities while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality.

• The integrity and judgment to make sound, timely decisions that move projects forward.

• A genuine passion for building an inclusive and complementary team culture where everyone can provide their best work.

• A highly adaptable, performance-driven demeanor and a positive approach to tackling new challenges.

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 $120,300 and $210,100, 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. (https://www.apple.com/careers/us/benefits.html)

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation.

Apple participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law.Learn more about the E-Verify program (https://www.apple.com/jobs/pdf/EverifyPosterEnglish.pdf) .

Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple is a drug-free workplace. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law. If you’re applying for a position in San Francisco, review the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance guidelines applicable in your area.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.