Hardware System Integration Engineer - AirPods

Apple Inc.; Cupertino (CA); On-site; USD 150,400 - 277,600; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee stock purchase plan

Health and dental coverage

Retirement benefits

Discounted products

Job summary

Apple Inc. in Cupertino, CA, is seeking a Hardware System Integration Engineer for AirPods to drive system hardware development, design PCBs and flexible circuits, and define optimized validation plans.

You will collaborate with industrial design, product design, software and manufacturing, travel occasionally, and contribute to prototype bring-up, data analysis, and issue resolution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• 5+ years of industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems.
• Strong Electrical Engineering fundamentals (analog/digital design, signal/power integrity, etc.).
• Hands-on experience in prototyping, bring-up, debug and validation.

Responsibilities

• Own aspects of system hardware development and drive product architectures.
• Design PCBs and flexible circuits for AirPods hardware.
• Create optimized system validation plans and oversee manufacturing test requirements.
• Analyze data and troubleshoot issues; travel may be required to support manufacturing.

Skills

Electrical engineering fundamentals

PCB design

Prototyping & bring-up

Python scripting

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PCB design tools

Job description

Hardware System Integration Engineer - AirPods

Cupertino, California, United States Hardware

At Apple, new ideas can quickly transform into amazing products, services, and customer experiences. Sound is an essential facet of the customer experience, and we are committed to making a difference through innovative designs. We are assembling a world‑class, diverse team of engineers who embrace the challenge of delivering products that allow our customers to enjoy music with delight and communicate with clarity. Our inquisitive and motivated team consists of passionate engineers who take ownership of delivering electronic solutions. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as industrial design, product design, technology, and manufacturing—we drive innovation at every step. Our small form factor products present exciting opportunities for innovation in advanced physical architectures, new RF technologies, and highly power‑optimized IC development. We thrive in a creative and collaborative environment where teamwork is essential, and every member contributes to the success of our projects. If you’re looking to be part of something truly special, come join our team and make a meaningful impact in the world of audio products. Together, we will build amazing products that elevate the customer experience.

Description

We are seeking dedicated and innovative engineers to take ownership of various aspects of system hardware development. In this role, you’ll drive product architectures, design PCBs and flexible circuits, and create optimized system validation plans. You'll also oversee manufacturing test requirements, contribute to prototype bring‑up and testing, analyze data, and troubleshoot issues. This position offers the opportunity for occasional travel to support manufacturing efforts, enhancing the hands‑on nature of the role. As an experienced member of our team, your contributions will help shape the future of AirPod architectures, with insights gained from successfully leading key programs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent


• 5+ years relevant industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems


• Strong Electrical Engineering fundamentals (analog/digital design, signal/power integrity, etc.)


• Hands‑on experience in prototyping, bring‑up, debug and validation

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with high‑volume products / consumer electronics from proof of concept to mass production; prior experience in working with contract manufacturers highly desirable


• Expertise in board and flex designs including schematic and layout with strong abilities to implement to a timeline and deliver high quality designs


• Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: CPU/SOC, power (DC‑DC converters, battery, power management, low power design), inductive power, analog circuits, audio, RF integration and measurement, sensor design and integration, ESD safety


• Python / scripting experience


• Design validation including bench analysis for proving performance to factory test for guaranteeing quality


• Experience working with mechanical design, software, reliability, manufacturing, and operations organizations is desirable


• Experience with challenging and multi‑disciplinary failure analysis


• Excellent written skills for clear reporting of data analysis and conclusions

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 $150,400 and $277,600, 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.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace.

Learn about reasonable accommodations for job applicants.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.