Rapid Prototyping Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 advanced 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 a hands-on maker with expertise in a variety of fabrication methods and tool making to join a small, high-impact advanced fabrication lab that builds prototypes for interdisciplinary applied research. If you are equally comfortable in the shop and at a whiteboard, and you thrive when a designer or researcher walks up and asks you to make something that has never been made before - we want to meet you.
Description
In this role, you will fabricate high-quality prototypes in support of applied research teams working across multiple hardware products. You will work closely and frequently with researchers, designers, and engineers in a shared lab environment, translating early-stage concepts into physical form across a wide range of materials, scales, and fabrication methods. Because our prototypes serve internal research rather than production pipelines, the emphasis is on speed, fidelity to intent, and creative problem-solving rather than volume or process standardization.","responsibilities":"Fabricate research tools, prototypes, and fixtures across a broad range of methods.
Prepare materials, set up, and operate fabrication machines, and conduct checks on finished components.
Work directly and frequently with researchers, designers, and engineers to interpret concepts and translate them into physical prototypes.
Select appropriate materials, processes, and tolerances based on intent rather than fixed specifications.
Operate and maintain lab equipment to high safety and quality standards.
Support lab operations, including tooling, consumables, and equipment readiness.
Preferred Qualifications
5+ years of hands-on experience across a broad range of fabrication equipment - CNC mills and lathes, laser cutters, FDM/SLA printers, and bench tools.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings as well as informal sketches and verbal descriptions.
Proficient in complex assembly of prototypes.
Strong eye for design or visual aesthetics.
Interest in learning new fabrication methods.
Experience developing SOPs for assembly work.
Degree in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, industrial design, or equivalent work experience.
Minimum Qualifications
3+ years of hands-on experience with at least one of the following fabrication categories: subtractive (5-axis CNC) or additive (3D printing, injection molding).
Experience working with a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and flexible or soft materials.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate directly with interdisciplinary stakeholders.
Comfort with ambiguity and rapidly shifting priorities in a research environment.
Ability to program complex 3D parts in CNC or optimize for rapid prototyping.
Ability to validate dimensions and critical features using metrology equipment.
Experience with work ticketing systems (such as Jira).
Full-time, on-site presence required to work with research equipment, and prototypes.
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 $51.19 and $89.84/hr, 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.