Manufacturing Design Engineer
About the role
Lead selection, implementation & optimization of iPhone manufacturing processes for mechanical enclosure machining and surface treatment. Manage process design from product drawings and cosmetic requirements to equipment selection, fixture design, DOE-driven recipe optimization, and process capability improvements. Coordinate across Asia and US teams, vendors, and internal groups to ensure manufacturability, quality, and on-time material delivery.
Responsibilities
- Lead selection, implementation & optimization of iPhone manufacturing processes for mechanical enclosure machining, surface treatment.
- Lead team to design process based on product drawing and cosmetic requirements; map out process flow and ERS including selecting processing equipment, designing fixtures, initiating DOEs to optimize recipes.
- Apply Mechanical Engineering experience to assess manufacturability with Product Design Engineering and Industrial Design; recommend production processes and equipment.
- Develop CNC process flow, review CNC fixture design DFM, drive improvements, apply datum to minimize tolerance stack-up, scope machining programs to improve process capability and cost/time efficiency.
- Develop advanced cutters with proper coating for high shinny surface, fine texture surface, and burr minimization.
- Lead machine calibration criteria setup and implementation; recover machine accuracy via maintenance or retrofit; down-select machines by capability and process requirements; collaborate with vendors to develop new equipment from RFQ to validation.
- Work with suppliers to define and refine mechanical tools and fixtures to secure dimensions and cosmetic requirements; establish process capability and readiness.
- Lead cost/time reduction (c/t) in NPI stage to hit MP target.
- Review/define vendor in-process control specs based on downstream process and 2D drawing requirements; define tolerances and specifications by demonstrating process capability to Product Designers and Industrial Designers.
- Identify, research, develop, and qualify premier equipment manufacturers and suppliers for sophisticated equipment in special processes.
- Provide manufacturing site leadership during development and product production ramp.
- Coordinate activities and maintain clear communication between Asia and US-based teams and vendors.
- Collaborate with Manufacture Design Engineers and Global Supply Managers to secure on-time, cost-effective delivery of materials to downstream CM vendors; support yield improvement with SPC and Pareto analysis.
Qualifications
- BS or equivalent in Mechanical / Industrial Engineering or related manufacturing experience.
- 5+ years hands-on experience in fixture design, CNC process, and cutter design in consumer electronics.
- Familiar with CAD/CAM/JMP and GD&T for data-driven decisions.
- Strong written and verbal English and Mandarin communication skills.
- Experience in Titanium or metal component manufacturing processes including MIM and additive manufacturing (e.g., LPBF, DMD).
- Knowledge of raw materials, assembly, testing; experience developing customized/non-standard machines is preferred.
- Experience in AIML and lean manufacturing.
- Familiar with FE A tools and spectroscopy/characterization tools (e.g., SEM, XRD, MTS, XPS, FTIR, RIB, TEM).
- Familiar with Python/C++/SQL; CAE or simulation tools.
- On-site build support; willingness to work from OEM factories.
- Self-motivated, results- and detail-oriented team player; ability to travel frequently in Asia.
Skills
Benefits
- Apple is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusion and diversity.
- Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities.
- Accessibility-friendly workplace and tools.
About Apple
Discover the innovative world of Apple and shop everything iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV, plus explore accessories, entertainment, and expert device support.
Discover the innovative world of Apple and shop everything iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, and Apple TV, plus explore accessories, entertainment, and expert device support.
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