Display Metrology Engineer

Apple Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 185,000 - 325,000; Full time

Job summary

Apple Inc. in Cupertino, CA is seeking a highly experienced hardware optoelectronics engineer to lead design and deployment of optical calibration and metrology systems during NPI. You will collaborate with hardware and software teams to deliver precise instruments for next‑gen displays and modules.

Ideal candidates have 10+ years in electro‑optical development, expertise in MATLAB/Python/C/C++, and a track record in high‑volume manufacturing, DoE, and FA. Travel up to 10% may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Physics, Opto‑mechanics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; 10+ years of electro‑optical module experience.
• Experience in optical instrumentation, data collection, and automation using MATLAB, Python, C/C++, C#, LabVIEW, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Initiate, prototype, and deploy next-generation metrology solutions for key optical modules and components.
• Assess vendor capabilities and manufacturing feasibility; define supplier technical specifications to meet design requirements.
• Define calibration and test Engineering Requirement Specifications (ERS) for optical instruments and metrology systems.
• Lead HW/SW validation and Failure Analysis (FA) for metrology instruments through prototyping, DoE, data analytics, and evaluation.
• Champion technology handoffs from research to manufacturing partners to enable mass production.
• Partner with multidisciplinary teams to present findings and guide design decisions.

Skills

Optical instrumentation

Data collection

Automation

In-depth optics

Education

Bachelor's degree in optics/physics/opto-mechanics/EE

PhD or MSc in related field

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

C#

LabVIEW

Job description

Cupertino, California, United States Hardware

The Module Performance Group is where collaboration meets world‑class engineering. Our team sits at the intersection of multiple technical fields, offering you the opportunity to drive innovation across diverse disciplines. As part of the Hardware Technology organization, we value uncompromising engineering thoroughness and actively support our engineers in creating novel intellectual property. Join us in crafting solutions the world has yet to imagine. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology to deliver outstanding user experiences, and you thrive in a dynamic, hands‑on, multi-disciplinary environment, this is the team for you.

Description

Design and develop industry‑leading optical calibration and metrology systems for testing optical modules and components (e.g., display modules, stacked lenses) during the New Product Introduction (NPI) phase, collaborating closely with hardware and software teams.

Responsibilities

• Initiate, prototype, and deploy next‑generation metrology solutions for key optical modules and components integrated into upcoming products.
• Assess vendor capabilities and manufacturing feasibility; define supplier technical specifications to meet strict design requirements and performance targets.
• Define calibration and test Engineering Requirement Specifications (ERS) for optical instruments and metrology systems.
• Lead HW/SW validation and Failure Analysis (FA) for metrology instruments and measurement systems through prototyping, design of experiments (DoE), data analytics, simulation, and performance evaluation.
• Champion technology handoffs from research and engineering pilot lines to manufacturing partners to ensure successful scaling for mass production.
• Partner with a broad range of multidisciplinary teams, presenting engineering findings to drive technical direction and inform critical design decisions.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Optics, Physics, Opto‑mechanics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with 10+ years of proven experience in the development and/or high‑volume deployment of electro‑optical modules.
• Experience in optical instrumentation, data collection, and automation using MATLAB, Python, C/C++, C#, LabVIEW, or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in related field with some industry experience.
• Proven track record developing display or optical metrology systems.
• Strong quantitative data & image analysis skills utilizing JMP, MATLAB, or similar tools.
• Experience in high‑volume electronics manufacturing (optical preferred), including Six Sigma, P/T ratio, DoE, failure analysis, and system trade‑offs.
• Exceptional problem‑solving skills with a drive to navigate ambiguous technical challenges and deliver solutions on schedule.
• Domain expertise in one or more of the following: in‑line metrology and test development, wavefront measurement/Zernike analysis, PSF/MTF modeling, or color science.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 10%.

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 $184,700 and $324,800, 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. Learn more about Apple Benefits
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

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
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Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.