Optical Sensing HW - Sensing Hardware Engineer
San Diego, California, United States

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other's ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It's the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you'll do more than join something you'll add something. Bring devices to life and enable them to interact with users and the environment in ways never imagined before. The optical sensing team integrates optical sensors across a variety of Apple products such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs. The optical sensing team is looking for someone who is a self-driven go-getter. Strong experience with optics, optical system design, and detectors is required. Join us in crafting solutions the world doesn't know of yet.

Description
You will design, develop, and launch next-generation optical sensing technologies. You will analyze data to draw conclusions, enhance product design and manufacturability, and drive failure analysis. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams including Optical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Reliability Engineers, Test Engineers, Process Engineers, and Software Engineers to deliver state-of-the-art sensing solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop optical sensing system.
• Perform product simulation and data analysis using tools such as Python, MATLAB, JMP, and LightTools to define sensor requirements and support engineering validation and characterization.
• Conduct failure mode analysis, root-cause diagnosis, and system-level problem-solving; execute engineering builds and drive cross-functional communication to enhance product design and manufacturability.
• Lead end-to-end validation of product features.
• Travel up to 10% as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong background in optical design with foundational knowledge in optical and electrical engineering.
• Hands-on experience with optical lab equipment (light sources, microscopes, spectrometers, detector, free space optics on optical bench etc.).
• Proficiency in scripting (python, MATLAB, etc.) for model development and data collection.
• BS and a minimum of 3 years relevant proven experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with optical simulation tools (LightTools, Lumerical, COMSOL, etc.).
• Experience supporting volume manufacturing, including test design, failure analysis, and statistical methods.
• Ability to build effective cross-functional working relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong teamwork abilities and self-motivation to tackle technical challenges.
• Degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or equivalent.

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 $139,500 and $258,100, 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.

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.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.