Prototyping Specialist (CNC)

Apple Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee stock purchase plan

Stock awards

Relocation assistance

Health and dental coverage

Education reimbursement

Job summary

Apple Inc. in Sunnyvale, CA, is seeking a CNC Prototype Machinist to join the Advanced Development Lab. You will set up, program, and operate CNC milling machines to produce high-precision prototype components for early product development.

The role emphasizes collaboration with engineers, strict adherence to GD&T and quality standards, and hands-on learning in a fast-paced development environment. This is an on-site position that offers growth within Apple’s manufacturing solutions.

Qualifications

• Experience setting up, operating, and programming a CNC 5-Axis machine in a 3D CAD/CAM environment.
• Ability to program complex 3D parts.
• Experience holding close tolerances and validating critical features and dimensions using hand metrology equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and program CNC machines to manufacture complex precision components.
• Develop and optimize toolpaths using 3D CAD/CAM software to machine complex geometries and free-form surfaces.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements to determine machining strategies and setups.
• Select appropriate tooling, workholding, and machining parameters to achieve required tolerances and surface finishes.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, etc.) to validate critical dimensions.
• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues and implement process improvements to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams to support prototype builds and manufacturability improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, quality standards, and shop best practices.

Skills

CNC machining

Programming CNC

GD&T understanding

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Tools

3D CAD/CAM

Wire EDM

Surface grinding

Job description

Do you possess a keen eye for detail, a passion for excellence, and a strong desire to contribute to extraordinary outcomes? If so, you will thrive on a diverse team that shares these values. At Apple’s ADL (Advanced Development Lab), we combine technical expertise and creativity to deliver remarkable results that quickly translate into exceptional products and customer experiences.We invite you to bring your curiosity, craftsmanship, and dedication to our team. At ADL, we take pride in building high-quality models, prototypes, and manufacturing solutions that support the development of future Apple products.The ADL is seeking a CNC Prototype Machinist to join our team. In this role, you will prepare materials, set up CNC milling machines, program toolpaths, and perform spot checks on finished components while maintaining strict quality and safety standards.

Description

As a CNC Prototype Machinist, you will work both independently and collaboratively on assignments that require strong judgment, technical expertise, and initiative. You will partner with engineers and cross-functional teams to produce high-quality prototype components in a fast-paced development environment. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable. You follow operational procedures and maintenance guidelines, quickly learn new processes, and communicate project progress clearly and regularly. This role offers the opportunity to directly impact early product development while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and program CNC machines to manufacture complex precision components.
• Develop and optimize toolpaths using 3D CAD/CAM software to machine complex geometries and free-form surfaces.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and GD&T requirements to determine machining strategies and setups.
• Select appropriate tooling, workholding, and machining parameters to achieve required tolerances and surface finishes.
• Perform in-process and final inspections using precision metrology tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, etc.) to validate critical dimensions.
• Troubleshoot machining and programming issues and implement process improvements to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams to support prototype builds and manufacturability improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, quality standards, and shop best practices.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience setting up, operating, and programming a CNC 5-Axis machine in a 3D CAD/CAM environment
• Ability to program complex 3D parts
• Experience holding close tolerances and validating critical features and dimensions using hand metrology equipment
• Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ yrs experience in multi-axis operation and programming
• Programming experience with general part geometries as well as free-form shapes
• Working knowledge or hands-on experience with Wire EDM and surface grinding processes.
• Knowledge of Machine code
• Experience using horizontal and vertical saws, manual mills and lathes
• Ability to apply and advise on Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerances
• Experience reading, interpreting and applying detailed part drawing requirements

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 $51.19 and $89.84/hr, 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.