Tactile Simulation Research Engineer - Special Projects (Robotics)

Apple Inc.; Santa Clara, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 185,000 - 325,000; Full time

Job summary

Apple Inc. in Santa Clara, CA seeks a Tactile Simulation Research Engineer to advance dynamic, physically-accurate robotic simulations. You will build novel architectures, calibrate models to data, and push numerical stability in a hands-on, multi-disciplinary team environment.

The role emphasizes Python/C++ expertise, and experience with physics simulators (Mujoco, Drake, IsaacLab). Candidates will contribute to Apple’s robotics and ML pipeline across the Apple ecosystem.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant experience developing dynamic physically-accurate simulations.
• Strong foundation in classical mechanics and contact dynamics.
• Strong proficiency in Python and C++ with experience in complex, multi-language systems.
• Strong proficiency in numerical methods and practical experience in physics simulation software.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain novel simulation architectures for tactile and robotic systems.
• Optimize fidelity and performance of simulations with complex dynamics.
• Calibrate and validate simulation models against empirical or experimental data.
• Identify and resolve numerical stability issues.
• Collaborate across disciplines leverage expertise and advance impact across multiple stakeholders.
• Document research findings, methodologies, and technical developments for internal knowledge sharing and external publications.

Skills

Python

C++

Numerical methods

Problem solving

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Robotics/CS

Tools

Mujoco

IsaacLab simulator

Drake

Job description

Tactile Simulation Research Engineer - Special Projects (Robotics)

Santa Clara, California, United States Machine Learning and AI

We are seeking research scientists and engineers with strong backgrounds across mechatronics, controls, haptics, robotics, simulation, and machine learning to drive breakthrough innovations in intelligent robotic systems. This position requires a hands‑on approach, integrating software and hardware solutions to push the boundaries of perception, control, and intelligence. You will work alongside world‑class researchers and engineers, contributing to technologies that power the Apple ecosystem.

Description

We are a team of best-in-the-world research scientists and engineers with deep experience in computer vision, machine learning, robotics, haptics, and related areas. We work on exciting new technologies that bring joy to millions of people. In our daily work, the team stays innovative, productive, and fun by sharing some key values: Passion for the mission: We’re here to make something extraordinary. We seek whatever work is right and strive for the best possible results. Modesty: The right answer is more significant than being right. We search for solutions as a team and value clear‑eyed feedback. Lean habits: You can’t grow without limits. Time constraints and big goals encourage us to sharpen our focus and learn to make phenomenal decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain novel simulation architectures for tactile and robotic systems.
• Optimize fidelity and performance of simulations with complex dynamics.
• Calibrate and validate simulation models against empirical or experimental data.
• Identify and resolve numerical stability issues.
• Collaborate across disciplines leverage expertise and advance impact across multiple stakeholders.
• Document research findings, methodologies, and technical developments for internal knowledge sharing and external publications.

Minimum Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant experience developing dynamic physically‑accurate simulations.
• Strong foundation in classical mechanics and contact dynamics.
• Strong proficiency in Python and C++ with experience in complex, multi‑language systems.
• Strong proficiency in numerical methods and practical experience in physics simulation software.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Robotics, Mechatronics, Controls, or a related field.
• Experience with tactile sensing or compliant body simulation.
• Experience optimizing simulation performance for AI/ML pipelines.
• Experience with a wide range of physics simulation software and their contact mechanics (e.g. Mujoco, IssacLab simulator, Drake, etc.).
• Demonstrated experience validating simulation results against physical test data or analytical benchmarks.

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.

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.