Apple

Robotics Prototyping Engineer (Special Projects)

Apple$120K — $150K *
Technical Services
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to build functional hardware systems from concept to prototype.
  • Hands-on experience with 3D CAD tools like SolidWorks or Fusion 360 and fabrication techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machining.
  • Experience in setting up and integrating robotic systems, including mechanical assembly and sensor integration.
  • Proficient in electronics design, including PCB fabrication and working with embedded systems.
  • Strong programming skills in Python and C++ focused on low-level/embedded systems.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and capacity to iterate based on feedback.

Responsibilities

  • Build and integrate robotic and mechatronic systems for research projects.
  • Develop custom hardware and software solutions for robotic platforms.
  • Design and fabricate mechanisms and electronics required for prototypes.
  • Collaborate with researchers and engineers to contribute to innovative technologies.
  • Participate in algorithm development as systems mature and evolve.
  • Create functional, tested prototypes to advance research goals.
  • Engage in publishing findings in top-tier scientific forums.

Benefits

  • Working alongside leading researchers and engineers in a collaborative environment.
  • Opportunity to contribute to impactful technologies within the Apple ecosystem.
  • Potential for hands-on experience with cutting-edge robotics and mechatronics.
  • Access to continuous learning and development opportunities.
Full Job Description
We are seeking a hands-on prototyping engineer to build, integrate, and manage the robotic and mechatronic systems at the heart of our research lab. This is a maker's role: you'll turn ideas into working hardware, stand up robot platforms, design and fabricate custom mechanisms and electronics, and write the low-level software that ties it all together. Unlike a traditional AI research role, this position lives at the intersection of mechanical design, electronics, controls, and software - with room to contribute to algorithmic and research work as systems mature. You will work alongside world-class researchers and engineers, contributing to technologies that power the Apple ecosystem and, where appropriate, publishing in top-tier scientific venues.

If you love building things - turning ideas into hardware, bringing up new robots, and writing the software that makes them move - we would love to hear from you!

Description

We are a team of best-in-the-world research scientists and engineers with deep experience in computer vision, machine learning, robotics, computer graphics, 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.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field - or equivalent hands-on experience.

Demonstrated prototyping ability: a track record of building functional hardware systems end to end.

Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and fabrication (3D printing, CNC machining, etc.).

Experience setting up and integrating robotic systems - mechanical assembly, actuation, and sensing.

Proficiency with electronics, including PCB design, embedded systems, and sensor integration.

Strong programming skills in Python and C++, including low-level/embedded and systems software.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to iterate quickly based on feedback and technical constraints.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in hardware/software co-design.

Experience managing or operating a lab, hardware inventory, or shared experimental facilities.

Experience developing algorithms for estimation, control, or sensor fusion.

Familiarity with simulation tools for system design and validation.

Experience with various sensor modalities (LiDAR, cameras, IMUs, force/torque, etc.).

Familiarity with reinforcement learning, planning algorithms, autonomous navigation, or full-body motion control.

Interest in contributing to research and publishing in top-tier scientific venues.

About Apple

Apple is a corporation that designs, manufactures, and markets mobile communication and media devices, personal computers, portable digital music players, and sells a variety of related software, services, peripherals, networking solutions, and third-party digital content and applications. Apple provides many products and services, including iPhone; iPad; iPod; Mac; Apple TV; a portfolio of consumer and professional software applications; the iOS and OS X operating systems; iCloud; and accessories, service, and support offerings. It sells its products worldwide through its retail stores, online stores, direct sales force and third-party cellular network carriers, wholesalers, retailers, and value-added resellers to the consumer and also sells third-party iPhone, iPad, Mac and iPod compatible products, including application software and accessories through its online and retail stores. Introduced in 1984, the Macintosh was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface (GUI). That feature and others such as an improved floppy drive design and a low-cost hard drive that made data retrieval faster helped Apple cultivate a reputation for innovation. Apple was named as the most admired company in the United States in 2008 and in the world from 2008 to 2012 by the Fortune magazine. The company was founded by Steven Paul Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Gerald Wayne on April 1, 1976, and is headquartered in Cupertino, California.

Apple Careers

Join Apple, a place where extraordinary people gather to do their best work. Our ever-expanding global team is at the forefront of innovation and leadership in the tech industry. At Apple, we're not just building products—we're crafting the kind of wonder that revolutionizes entire industries. It's the diversity of our people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry-leading environmental efforts. Work You’ll Do Embark on a journey with Apple’s market-leading team to help some of the world’s most influential companies navigate their path to digital mastery with cutting-edge technology and services. Transform industries and touch lives with your unique ideas at Apple. Here, you’ll lead through a unique position at the intersection of technology, creativity, and robust industry expertise. Collaborate with a global team of professionals who are at the top of their game in technology and design. Apple isn’t just a company, it’s a community of innovators and passionate thinkers. Introducing the Apple Innovation and Leadership Initiative We are building a market-leading team to drive our efforts in delivering groundbreaking solutions and services. At Apple, job opportunities are abundant, offering you the chance to explore diverse roles from engineering to marketing, all designed to empower your career growth. Do Innovative Work Join the largest group of creative and technical experts in the world—professionals dedicated to redefining what’s possible through technology and innovation. Deliver targeted solutions through a depth and breadth of expertise that’s unmatched, driving forward our commitment to excellence and leadership in every project we undertake. Be Part of a Great Team Engage in a wide range of projects utilizing Apple’s technology and resources. Harness the unparalleled capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development that only Apple can offer. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with limitless opportunities at Apple. Go as far as your ambition takes you with unmatched training, development, and certification support. Explore Discover how Apple is leading the way in tech innovation: [With iOS] Businesses can streamline operations and enhance customer interactions... READ MORE Smart home technology integration that sets the standard for convenience and security... READ MORE The Apple Experience Our combined service capabilities, global scale, and joint solution development help clients overcome challenges and lead transformation in their industries. Clients worldwide look to Apple for new strategies and solutions that drive growth and innovation in the digital era. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Whether you’re seeking a professional role, an internship, or a leadership position, Apple offers a variety of employment opportunities. SEARCH APPLE JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at Apple, a company committed to diversity, innovation, and leadership. Explore job opportunities, employment benefits, and the culture of growth and innovation at Apple. Prepare your resume, hone your interview skills, and ready yourself for a career at one of the most prestigious companies in the world. Join us in pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
Learn more about Apple
Size
154,000 employees
Market Cap
$2,074.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$63.9 billion
Founded
1976
5 Year Trend
+11.5%
Revenue
$294.1 billion
NASDAQ

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