Lab Operations Engineer
Apple's silicon engineering labs are where breakthrough ideas meet rigorous validation. As a Lab Operations Engineer, you will be at the center of a cross-functional lab environment responsible for keeping our high-speed measurement and test infrastructure running reliably. You will work hands-on with a diverse range of state-of-the-art instrumentation - from oscilloscopes and bit-error-rate testers to vector network analyzers and optical systems - enabling the teams around you to gain confidence in results and push performance. If you thrive on solving practical engineering problems, keeping complex systems in top shape, and collaborating across disciplines, this is the role for you.
Description
The Lab Operations Engineer is responsible for the full lifecycle of test equipment and board setups across a semiconductor test lab, including setup, teardown, maintenance, calibration, and logistics. This role deploys and supports a variety of automated and manual tests - spanning high-speed signal measurements, RF characterization, optics, and scripted validation flows - while maintaining lab standards for safety, organization, and operational efficiency. The engineer works closely with design, validation, and operations to troubleshoot issues, keep equipment calibrated and available, and drive continuous improvement in lab processes.","responsibilities":"Set up, maintain, calibrate, and tear down test boards and measurement equipment including oscilloscopes, BERTs, power modules, VNAs, and pneumatic thermal head systems
Deploy and execute a variety of tests including automated scripts, high-speed signal measurements, and RF measurements
Maintain lab standards for safety, cleanliness, and organization in compliance with site policies
Manage equipment inventory, calibration schedules, and records; coordinate repairs and calibrations with external vendors
Troubleshoot, debug, and document issues observed during lab operations; escalate findings to supervisors and cross-functional partners
Support validation, documentation, and change-control activities following established engineering standards
Contribute to continuous improvement of lab reliability and efficiency by identifying recurring issues and updating standard procedures
Perform rework and soldering of components or probes to boards as needed
Preferred Qualifications
BSEE or related engineering degree with 5+ years of relevant lab experience
Familiarity with MacOS, Linux, and Windows environments
Basic understanding of Unix/shell environments and command-line tools
Working knowledge of Python
Ability to read schematics and board layout files to identify component placement
Understanding of various electronic components and their form factors
Strong organizational, troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
Hands-on experience with high-speed signal integrity and RF measurement equipment
Scripting and automation experience beyond basic Python (e.g., GPIB/VISA instrument control)
Experience with AI-assisted coding tools or agents
Soldering and PCB rework skills
Experience with optical test equipment (tunable lasers, OSAs, optical power meters) and silicon photonics measurement techniques such as fiber-to-chip coupling and photonic device characterization
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Familiarity with optical probe stations, fiber alignment systems, and photonic GDS layout interpretation
Basic understanding of networked equipment and TCP/IP concepts
Familiarity with root-cause analysis and failure documentation practices
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum requirement of a bachelors degree","internalDetails":null
Pay & Benefits
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 $101,192 and $197,500 annualized, 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.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
Parental Benefits
Work Flexibility
Office Life and Perks
Vacation and Time Off
Financial and Retirement
Professional Development
Diversity and Inclusion
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