Prototyping and Fabrication Manager
Shape the future of Apple's hardware products! The Applied Research and Characterization team combines expertise in mechanical engineering, human factors, biomechanics, data analysis, statistics, software, and fabrication. We deliver data-backed insights for design decisions across Apple's entire hardware portfolio, directly influencing products launched worldwide. You'll have access to cutting-edge equipment and collaborate with multidisciplinary experts across our global sites. Few teams offer this breadth of impact combined with world-class resources.
We are looking for an experienced leader to manage a small, high-impact fabrication lab that builds prototypes and tooling for interdisciplinary applied research, FEA validation, and characterization. As the manager of this team you will lead a group of skilled makers, steward a broad and evolving set of equipment and capabilities, and serve as a key connector between research initiatives and prototyping possibilities. Your combination of technical credibility and people leadership will open doors for bold experimentation early in the hardware development cycle, influencing products used by millions.
Description
In this role, you will both lead day-to-day operations and engage in longer-horizon planning for a fabrication lab dedicated to research prototypes. You will manage a small but diverse team of fabrication specialists, oversee lab safety and equipment readiness, and work closely with research leads, designers, and engineers to ensure the lab is meeting the evolving needs of product teams. You will help your team develop their careers, foster a culture of creative problem-solving, and build collaborative relationships that allow researchers and engineers to think of the lab as a true partner rather than a service provider.","responsibilities":"Lead, develop, and support a team of prototype fabrication specialists in a fast-paced environment across a broad range of methods, including 3D printing, CNC, laser cutting, DFM, and manual assembly.
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Serve as a primary point of contact for research teams, designers, and engineers seeking fabrication support - building strong, trust-based working relationships across disciplines.
Identify and drive continuous improvement in lab processes, workflows, and capabilities, with particular attention to the unique demands of wearable prototype development.
Scope and add new prototype fabrication capabilities, including capital equipment, training, etc.
Triage and prioritize incoming prototype requests, balancing urgency, complexity, and team capacity.
Lead creative problem-solving and troubleshooting activities for failures and other improvement opportunities.
Provide personnel development plans and constructive feedback on performance.
Preferred Qualifications
3+ years of experience managing a fabrication, prototyping, or manufacturing team, with direct hands-on technical credibility as a model maker
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Manufacturing, or a related field - or equivalent demonstrated experience
Experience fabricating prototypes for wearable, body-worn, or human-factors applications
Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, laser prototyping capabilities
Experience evaluating and incubating emerging fabrication technologies to innovate on lab capabilities
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum of 2 years leading a fabrication, prototyping, or manufacturing team
Excellent communication skills, ability to clearly articulate complex ideas in written reports, verbal presentations, and impromptu whiteboard sessions
Demonstrated hands-on experience with multiple fabrication methods, and ability to learn, absorb, and master new fabrication techniques
Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with cross-functional stakeholders
Ability to navigate ambiguity in early-stage product development
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 .
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 $176,600 and $313,500, 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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