ICloud Server Engineer -ASE

Cupertino, California, United States Software and Services

Have you ever set up a new iPhone and wondered how your phone number is instantly and securely bound to your identity for iMessage and Face Time? Have you considered the global‑scale distributed systems required to make that moment of magic possible, orchestrating complex protocols with hundreds of carriers across billions of devices? That’s us! We are the iMessage Server team, and we are looking for someone to help us build upon our foundational services that handle phone number identity—the cornerstone of privacy and trust for Apple’s communication platforms.

Our systems are the first link in the chain for every secure conversation, operating at a scale that supports over a billion active devices.

In this role, you will provide deep technical leadership and influence. You will navigate ambiguity and lead complex, multi‑functional initiatives from conception to production. Collaborating with client engineering, security, and business teams, you will align technical strategy with both customer needs and business objectives. You will also mentor other senior engineers, elevating the technical capabilities of the entire team. We are looking for a technical leader who is excited to tackle sophisticated problems at a massive scale and ensure our services remain trusted and private.

You are a hands‑on architect with a profound sense of ownership, someone who thrives on solving ill‑defined problems and making high‑stakes technical trade‑offs. The systems you design will be an integral part of the Apple experience for years to come, forming the bedrock of trust for how hundreds of millions of people communicate every day.

• 8+ years of proven experience designing, building, and operating large‑scale, highly available distributed systems.
• Deep understanding of server‑to‑server protocols, modern API design, and security best practices.
• Experience with telecommunication standards and protocols such as SMS, RCS, or similar carrier technologies.
• Proven experience leading complex, cross‑functional projects from initial concept and specification to successful deployment.
• Proficiency in Java, with strong object‑oriented design and programming skills.
• Strong problem‑solving, debugging, and interpersonal skills, combined with a sense of ownership and a collaborative spirit.

• 10+ years of proven experience designing, building, and operating large‑scale, highly available distributed systems.
• Leadership and/ or mentorship experience.

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 $181,100 and $318,400, 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.

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.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.