Photonics Test Development Engineer, Hardware & Automation

Apple; Cupertino (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Apple is seeking a Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer to scale optical test methodologies from prototype to high-volume manufacturing. The role emphasizes lab-based development, Python automation, and cross-functional collaboration with photonics engineers to ensure repeatable, high-throughput test processes.

The candidate will design test equipment, optimize calibration procedures, and contribute to defining specifications for scalable production environments.

Qualifications

• BSc degree in EE, Physics, or similar.
• Experience with laser, free-space, fiber, or integrated optics and optical measurement techniques.
• Experience with object-oriented programming and data analysis in Python.

Responsibilities

• Develop scalable test/calibration methodologies optimized for speed, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop Python scripts and modules for characterization, testing, automation, and data analysis.
• Define requirements and specs for specialized test equipment with vendors and internal teams.
• Optimize control and calibration algorithms for fast feedback and automated module operation.
• Drive internal and external partners to create test/calibration processes for future high-volume manufacturing.
• Collaborate with photonics process and design engineers to manage performance variability.

Skills

Python programming

Data analysis

Object-oriented programming

Optics measurement techniques

Education

BSc in EE or Physics

Tools

Git version control

Oscilloscopes

OSAs

Wavemeters

Function generators

Job description

Apple is seeking a Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer to scale optical test methodologies from prototype to high-volume manufacturing. The role emphasizes lab-based development, Python automation, and cross-functional collaboration with photonics engineers to ensure repeatable, high-throughput test processes.

The candidate will design test equipment, optimize calibration procedures, and contribute to defining specifications for scalable production environments.