Product Design Lab Engineer
Apple· Hardware
Sunnyvale, CA$123.7k - $218kFull-timePosted 1w ago
About the role
Own the build-out, commissioning, and daily operation of a new Product Design lab at Apple. Translate design concepts into practical build paths, machine and fabricate prototype parts on-site, manage lab requests, and ensure safety and audit readiness while collaborating with Product Design engineers.
Responsibilities
- Machine, fabricate, and assemble prototype parts on-site using CNC milling, manual machine tools, 3D printing, and other rapid-prototyping equipment, including programming, setup, fixturing, and tooling selection those jobs require.
- Plan and shape the lab facility during construction — layout, utilities, and equipment strategy — then specify, source, install, and commission the equipment needed to bring it online.
- Own ongoing lab management and maintenance: preventive maintenance, calibration schedules, tooling and consumables, spares, service contracts, and equipment upgrades as the lab's capabilities evolve.
- Partner with Product Design engineers on build strategy and iteration, translating concepts and requirements into a practical, manufacturable build path.
- Scope build needs and route heavier fabrication to internal shops, peer labs, or external vendors, managing those relationships, quotes, and timelines.
- Perform routine dimensional inspection and measurement, and determine when deeper metrology or material characterization should be handed to specialized resources.
- Own intake, prioritization, scheduling, and delivery of all lab requests, resolving what can be resolved on-site so specialized teams receive only the work that requires them.
- Maintain a safe, audit-ready lab, including environmental health and safety compliance, training, and documentation.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Hands-on CNC machining experience, including setup, fixturing, tooling selection, and producing finished parts to drawing.
- Experience owning the operation and upkeep of a prototyping, R&D, engineering lab or machine shop — equipment maintenance, calibration, and safety.
- Hands-on experience across mechanical, electrical, and test work in a prototyping or R&D environment.
- Experience performing dimensional inspection and measurement, and interpreting drawings, tolerances, and GD&T.
- Experience scoping and specifying machined parts and working with internal or external fabrication suppliers.
- Ability to work on-site in a lab environment, including lifting and moving up to 25 lbs and safely operating lab equipment, with occasional schedule flexibility around build and bring-up milestones.
Skills
Required:CNC machiningDimensional inspection / GD&TLaboratory / shop managementVendor management
Benefits
- Apple benefits include comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, discounted products and free services, and reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition.
- Discretionary bonuses or commission payments, relocation assistance, and Employee Stock Purchase Plan eligibility.
- Stock options through discretionary employee stock programs and opportunities to become an Apple shareholder through RSUs.
Last updated Oct 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.
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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