Photonics Design Engineer

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

Job summary

Apple Inc. in Cupertino, CA, is seeking a Photonics Design Engineer within the Camera Semiconductor Devices group to explore and develop advanced photonic devices for future camera applications.

You will lead large-scale computational modeling and ML-driven design workflows, collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring next‑generation optical components from concept to production. The role emphasizes end-to-end device simulation, data-driven risk assessment, and strong teamwork.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in EE, physics, applied math, computational sciences or equivalent.
• Experience in semiconductor and photonic device design & development and data analysis.
• Experience in electromagnetics modeling, inverse design and/or machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end development of the computational physics and simulation platform and ML-assisted design workflows.
• Bridge system-level needs and hardware execution by modeling advanced photonic devices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and vendors; feed data back into ML pipelines.

Skills

Semiconductor device design

Data analysis

Electromagnetics modeling

Inverse design

Machine Learning

Education

B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, physics, applied mathematics, Computational Sciences or an equivalent field

MS/Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, physics, applied mathematics, Computational Sciences or an equivalent field

Job description

Cupertino, California, United States Hardware

Imagine the impact you can make here. At Apple, bold ideas quickly become extraordinary hardware products and customer experiences. We thrive on dynamic innovation, and a shared commitment to leaving the world better than we found it. If you love solving unprecedented challenges and want to craft upcoming products that will delight and inspire millions every day, join us to build the next big thing.

Description

As a Photonics Design Engineer within the Camera Semiconductor Devices organization, you will focus on exploring and developing advanced photonic devices for future applications. In this fast-paced, proactive role, you will lead large-scale computational modeling and machine learning driven design workflows, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams and external vendors to bring next-generation optical components from concept to production. You will manage end-to-end device simulation and evaluation, using data-driven insights to clearly communicate engineering risks and architectural merits to facilitate strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Own the end-to-end development of the computational physics and simulation platform, from first-principle algorithm implementation to machine learning assisted design workflows; implement deep learning surrogate models and inverse design to optimize device performance under real-world manufacturing tolerances.
• Bridge system-level needs and hardware execution by designing and modeling advanced photonic devices that enable high-performance camera and sensing applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to explore novel system solutions and partner with external vendors to coordinate prototype development, feeding experimental and manufacturing data back into the machine learning pipeline to optimize high-volume production

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, physics, applied mathematics, Computational Sciences or an equivalent field.
• Experience in semiconductor and photonic device design & development and data analysis.
• Experience in electromagnetics modeling, inverse design and/or Machine Learning

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S./Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, physics, applied mathematics, Computational Sciences or an equivalent field.
• 5+ years’ experience with in-depth understanding and proficiency in electromagnetics modeling, inverse design and Machine Learning.
• Familiar with semiconductor device physics with experience in device design and development, data analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Possesses a strong aptitude to learn with a proactive attitude and to resolve challenges independently, passionate about taking responsibilities and driving for results, and excellent in teamwork and communication.

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.

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 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

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.