Prototype Lab Engineer: Build & Run a Design Lab

Apple, Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 124,000 - 218,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonuses

Relocation support

Education reimbursement

Job summary

Apple is seeking a Lab Engineer to own and operate a new Product Design lab. You will machine and fabricate urgent parts on-site using CNC and manual equipment, run dimensional inspections, and coordinate with internal shops and external vendors.

You will lead lab build-out, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance, while partnering with Product Design engineers to translate concepts into practical build paths. The role requires on-site work and a proactive, safety-conscious mindset.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Hands-on CNC machining experience with setup, fixturing and tooling.
• Experience running prototyping or R&D labs and equipment upkeep.
• Experience across mechanical, electrical and test work in prototyping.
• Experience performing dimensional inspection and interpreting drawings and GD&T.
• Experience scoping machined parts and coordinating with suppliers.
• Ability to work on-site in a lab, lift up to 25 lbs, and schedule-flex as needed.

Responsibilities

• Machine, fabricate, and assemble prototype parts on-site using CNC milling, manual tools, 3D printing and rapid prototyping equipment.
• Plan and shape the lab facility during construction and specify the equipment to bring it online.
• Own ongoing lab management: maintenance, calibration schedules, tooling, spares, service contracts, upgrades.
• Partner with Product Design engineers on build strategy and translate concepts into manufacturable paths.
• Scope build needs and route to internal shops, peer labs, or external vendors; manage quotes and timelines.
• Perform routine dimensional inspection and determine when deeper metrology is needed.
• Manage intake, prioritization, scheduling, and delivery of all lab requests; ensure safe, audit-ready operations.
• Maintain a safe, audit-ready lab with EH&S compliance, training, and documentation.

Tools

CNC milling

3D printing

Laser cutters

Manual machine tools

GD&T inspection

Job description

Apple is seeking a Lab Engineer to own and operate a new Product Design lab. You will machine and fabricate urgent parts on-site using CNC and manual equipment, run dimensional inspections, and coordinate with internal shops and external vendors.

You will lead lab build-out, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance, while partnering with Product Design engineers to translate concepts into practical build paths. The role requires on-site work and a proactive, safety-conscious mindset.