Skip to main contentA logo with &quat;the muse&quat; in dark blue text.

Surface Finishing - Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Plating

AT Apple
Apple

Surface Finishing - Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Plating

Cupertino, CA

Join a dynamic team of Subject Matter Experts specializing in the color, material, and finish of Apple products. The Plating SME will be directly involved in creating Apple products from initial concept to mass production. The Surface Finishing SME is responsible for planning, implementing, analyzing, and optimizing high volume plating, passivation, etching, and other finishing processes to meet rigorous cosmetic and functional requirements. Work with suppliers, overseas colleagues, cross functional and leadership teams to create robust processes to meet our rigorous functional and cosmetic requirements. A successful candidate will be intimate with plating, etching, passivation, and related chemical finishing operations. The ability to accurately communicate complex technical details to colleagues, cross functional teams, and Apple executives is critical. They will be able to manage multiple concurrent projects, keep calm and focused during difficult situations, be process oriented, and remain flexible & adaptable to the fast pace of mass production.

Want more jobs like this?

Get jobs in Cupertino, CA delivered to your inbox every week.

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy.


Description

Enable the cosmetic requirements set by Apple designers by developing processes to match their desired finish. This includes creating initial samples, and developing the process necessary to meet their desired finishes. Evaluate supplier capabilities and, if necessary, address production gaps by implementing advanced manufacturing processes and control methods. Monitor and adjust the manufacturing processes throughout the product development cycle to reliably meet functional and cosmetic requirements in mass production. Present technical and process analysis to key decision makers that will be used to make commercial, cosmetic and design decisions.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Minimum 10 years experience in anodizing, plating, etching, or related chemical surface finishing operation.
  • Bachelor degree in engineering, chemistry, materials science, or related field. Master degree is a plus.
  • Experience using a variety of mechanical processes and chemical finishing processes to meet tight cosmetic and functional requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with highly cosmetic consumer electronics devices preferred.
  • Excellent problem solving skills, and the ability to drive root cause analysis and corrective action activities.
  • Experience in a multinational organization working on cross-functional teams.
  • Minimum average, preferably superior color discrimination ability.
  • Attention to detail, consistent follow-through, and the ability to remain focused on strategic goals while managing day-to-day project activities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Frequent overseas travel expected.

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 $178,400 and $268,500, 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.

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 .

Submit Resume

Client-provided location(s): Cupertino, CA, USA
Job ID: apple-200600151
Employment Type: Other

Company Videos

Hear directly from employees about what it is like to work at Apple.