Staff Machine Learning Engineer
Job Summary
The role involves leading engineering efforts to improve Pinterest search relevance through machine learning models and large-scale systems. The candidate will build and enhance semantic search models, work cross-functionally, and mentor a team of engineers. Experience with ML frameworks like PyTorch and TensorFlow, as well as scaling models and relevance modeling, is required. The position offers flexibility with in-person collaboration and emphasizes a diverse, inclusive workplace culture.
Required Skills
Benefits
Job Description
About Pinterest:
Millions of people around the world come to our platform to find creative ideas, dream about new possibilities and plan for memories that will last a lifetime. At Pinterest, we’re on a mission to bring everyone the inspiration to create a life they love, and that starts with the people behind the product.
Discover a career where you ignite innovation for millions, transform passion into growth opportunities, celebrate each other’s unique experiences and embrace the flexibility to do your best work. Creating a career you love? It’s Possible.
Pinterest helps Pinners discover and do what they love. At the core of this discovery experience is Pinterest search. The Search Quality team is focused on making Pinterest search fast, personalized, and relevant for the billions of monthly searches. We seek a Tech Lead for ranking who can drive cross-team engineering efforts to deliver ML-driven product experiences to our Pinners. This role offers the opportunity to work on innovative projects, build large-scale low-latency systems and state-of-the-art machine learning models, and significantly impact our Pinners and business metrics.
What you'll do:
- Build foundational models to do semantic search relevance.
- Work with teams responsible for search full-stack to improve relevance at each stage.
- Develop relevance focused signals (e.g. VLM based embeddings) that can be used in multiple models across the search stack.
- Contribute towards the strategic vision and technical direction of highly visible initiatives.
- Mentor a team of 5 engineers.
- Work cross functionally with adjacent teams to drive cohesive modeling across the business.
What we're looking for:
- Languages: Python, Java.
- Machine Learning: PyTorch, TensorFlow.
- Big data processing: Spark, Hive, MapReduce.
- Experience with search and in particular semantic relevance modeling (Preferred).
- Hands on experience leveraging LLMs and VLMs to drive product impact.
- Strong modeling skills and experience working on problems like online/offline bias, scaling models, etc.
- Experience with large scale systems.
- Exposure to Generative AI models.
- Bachelors degree in a relevant field such as computer science, or equivalent experience
Relocation Statement:
- This position is not eligible for relocation assistance. Visit our PinFlex page to learn more about our working model.
In-Office Requirement Statement:
- We let the type of work you do guide the collaboration style. That means we're not always working in an office, but we continue to gather for key moments of collaboration and connection.
- This role will need to be in the office for in-person collaboration 1-2 times/quarter and therefore can be situated anywhere in the country.
#LI-REMOTE
#LI-DM57
At Pinterest we believe the workplace should be equitable, inclusive, and inspiring for every employee. In an effort to provide greater transparency, we are sharing the base salary range for this position. The position is also eligible for equity. Final salary is based on a number of factors including location, travel, relevant prior experience, or particular skills and expertise.
Information regarding the culture at Pinterest and benefits available for this position can be found here.
Our Commitment to Inclusion:
Safe Remote Job Search Tips
Verify Employer Thoroughly
Research the company's identity thoroughly before applying. Check for a professional website with contacts, active social media, and LinkedIn profiles. Verify details across platforms and look for reviews on Glassdoor or Trustpilot to confirm legitimacy.
Never Pay to Get a Job
Legitimate employers never require payment for applications, training, background checks, or equipment. Always reject upfront payment requests or demands for bank details, even if they claim it's for purchasing necessary work gear on your behalf.
Safeguard Your Personal Information
Protect sensitive data like SSN, bank details, or ID copies. Share this only after accepting a formal, written job offer. Ensure it's submitted via a secure company system or portal, never through insecure channels like standard email attachments.
Scrutinize Communication & Interviews
Watch for communication red flags: poor grammar, generic emails (@gmail), vague details, or undue pressure. Be highly suspicious of interviews held only via text or chat apps; legitimate companies typically use video or phone calls.
Beware of Unrealistic Offers
If an offer's salary or benefits seem unrealistically high for the work involved, be cautious. Research standard pay for similar roles. Offers that appear 'too good to be true' are often scams designed to lure you into providing information or payment.
Insist on a Formal Contract
Always secure and review a formal, written job offer or employment contract before starting work or sharing final personal details. Ensure it clearly defines your role, compensation, key terms, and conditions to avoid misunderstandings or scams.