Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer

Apple Inc.; Cupertino (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Stock purchase plan

Education reimbursement

Medical and dental coverage

Job summary

Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer role at Apple Inc. in Cupertino combines hands-on lab work, software automation, and cross-functional collaboration to scale photonics tech from prototype to high-volume manufacturing.

You will develop test methodologies, write Python scripts for characterization, and define equipment requirements while working with internal teams and external vendors to optimize throughput and yield.

Qualifications

• BSc in EE, Physics, or related field.
• Experience with laser/optics and optical measurement techniques.
• Experience with Python and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop and run test/calibration methodologies optimized for speed, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop Python scripts and modules for characterization/test/calibration automation, and data analysis.
• Define requirements and specifications for specialized test equipment in collaboration with equipment vendors and internal teams.
• Optimize control and calibration algorithms for fast feedback loops and automated module operation.
• Drive internal and external partners to create test/calibration processes for future high-volume manufacturing.
• Work closely with photonics process and design engineers to establish best practices and understand drivers of performance variability.

Skills

Python

OOP

Data analysis

Lab automation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in EE or Physics

PhD in EE or Physics

Tools

Oscilloscopes

OSAs

Wavemeters

Function generators

PCBs

Job description

Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer

Cupertino, California, United States Hardware

Apple is looking for a Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer with strong optics lab skills, coding experience, and passion in scaling technology from prototype to high-volume manufacturing environment. You will work to develop scalable optical and optoelectronic test/calibration procedures for integrated photonics devices in sensing applications. The candidate will develop test methodologies: spending significant time in the lab, writing code, and defining test plans/specifications. This will involve designing specialized test equipment, optimizing calibration processes to achieve high throughput and yield, running tests/calibrations, working cross-functionally within Apple, and working with partners external to Apple. Your work will establish the foundation for transitioning cutting-edge photonics technology into high-volume consumer products.

Description

As a Photonics Test Development Hardware Engineer, you will have the following responsibilities:

• Develop and run test/calibration methodologies optimized for speed, scalability, and cost-effectiveness
• Develop Python scripts and modules for characterization/test/calibration automation, and data analysis
• Define requirements and specifications for specialized test equipment in collaboration with equipment vendors and internal teams
• Optimize control and calibration algorithms for fast feedback loops and automated module operation
• Drive internal and external partners to create test/calibration processes for future high-volume manufacturing
• Work closely with photonics process and design engineers to establish best practices and understand drivers of performance variability

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD degree in EE, Physics, or similar
• 3+ years of relevant mass production experience developing test processes for photonics or optical systems, including design and specification of custom test equipment and automation solutions
• Experience automating hardware test stations in a lab or manufacturing setting for characterization of active integrated photonic devices
• Experience in modelling, designing, and building free-space, diffuse light, and fiber-based optical setups
• Experience in cross-functional collaboration with engineering and operations teams
• Understanding of manufacturing constraints including cost modeling, throughput optimization, and yield considerations
• Experience building and maintaining Python modules, including git-based version control, documentation and continuous integration testing
• Familiarity with basic electronic circuits, control theory, and feedback loops, optics/electronics lab experience, including working with PCBs and test equipment such as oscilloscopes, OSAs, wavemeters, function generators, etc.

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 $225,300, 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.