Apple

Apple

Posted via Apple Careers

Hardware System Integration Engineer - AirPods

Always Hiring

Posted Aug 12, 2026

Role at a glance

Salary
$129.3K – $225.3K/yr
Location
Cupertino, California, United States
Work arrangement
On-site
Employment
Full-time
Experience
5+ years relevant industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems
Education
Bachelors or Masters degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent

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Role Summary

AI-generated

This role develops system hardware for Apple audio products, including AirPods, in collaboration with industrial design, product design, technology, and manufacturing teams. The engineer will help shape product architectures and deliver electronic solutions from prototyping through manufacturing, supporting product quality and customer audio experiences.

What You'll Do

  • Drive product architectures and design PCBs and flexible circuits
  • Create optimized system validation plans and oversee manufacturing test requirements
  • Contribute to prototype bring-up and testing
  • Analyze data and troubleshoot issues
  • Support manufacturing efforts through occasional travel

Generated from the employer's posting. Verify important details before applying.

View full posting

Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent; 5+ years of relevant industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems; strong electrical engineering fundamentals; hands-on prototyping, bring-up, debugging, and validation experience; laboratory experience using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and frequency counters.

Required

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
  • 5+ years relevant industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems
  • Strong Electrical Engineering fundamentals (analog/digital design, signal/power integrity, etc.)
  • Hands-on experience in prototyping, bring-up, debug and validation
  • Comfortable in a lab environment using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, frequency counters, etc.

Preferred

  • Experience with high volume products / consumer electronics from proof of concept to mass production
  • Experience working with contract manufacturers
  • Expertise in board and flex designs including schematic and layout
  • Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: CPU/SOC, power, inductive power, analog circuits, audio, RF integration and...
  • Python / scripting experience
  • Design validation including bench analysis for proving performance to factory test for guaranteeing quality
  • Experience working with mechanical design, software, reliability, manufacturing, and operations organizations
  • Experience with challenging and multi-disciplinary failure analysis

Original job description

Content provided by the employer

Summary

At Apple, new ideas can quickly transform into amazing products, services, and customer experiences. Sound is an essential facet of the customer experience, and we are committed to making a difference through innovative designs. We are assembling a world-class, diverse team of engineers who embrace the challenge of delivering products that allow our customers to enjoy music with delight and communicate with clarity.

Our inquisitive and motivated team consists of passionate engineers who take ownership of delivering electronic solutions. Through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as industrial design, product design, technology, and manufacturing—we drive innovation at every step. Our small form factor products present exciting opportunities for innovation in advanced physical architectures, new RF technologies, and highly power-optimized IC development.

We thrive in a creative and collaborative environment where teamwork is essential, and every member contributes to the success of our projects. If you’re looking to be part of something truly special, come join our team and make a meaningful impact in the world of audio products. Together, we will build amazing products that elevate the customer experience.

Description

We are seeking dedicated and innovative engineers to take ownership of various aspects of system hardware development. In this role, you’ll drive product architectures, design PCBs and flexible circuits, and create optimized system validation plans. You'll also oversee manufacturing test requirements, contribute to prototype bring-up and testing, analyze data, and troubleshoot issues. This position offers the opportunity for occasional travel to support manufacturing efforts, enhancing the hands-on nature of the role. As an experienced member of our team, your contributions will help shape the future of AirPod architectures, with insights gained from successfully leading key programs.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelors or Masters degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
5+ years relevant industry experience designing electronics and/or embedded systems
Strong Electrical Engineering fundamentals (analog/digital design, signal/power integrity, etc.)
Hands-on experience in prototyping, bring-up, debug and validation
Comfortable in a lab environment using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, frequency counters, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with high volume products / consumer electronics from proof of concept to mass production; prior experience in working with contract manufacturers highly desirable
Expertise in board and flex designs including schematic and layout with strong abilities to implement to a timeline and deliver high quality designs
Knowledge in one or more of the following areas: CPU/SOC, power(DC-DC converters, battery, power management, low power design), inductive power, analog circuits, audio, RF integration and measurement, sensor design and integration, ESD safety
Python / scripting experience
Design validation including bench analysis for proving performance to factory test for guaranteeing quality
Experience working with mechanical design, software, reliability, manufacturing, and operations organizations is desirable
Experience with challenging and multi-disciplinary failure analysis
Excellent written skills for clear reporting of data analysis and conclusions

Pay & Benefits — Cupertino, California, United States

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 $129,300 and $225,300, 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.

Application Deadline

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.

Apple

About the company

Apple

Large Enterprise

Apple Inc. is a global technology company known for its innovative products and services, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, and Apple Watch. Founded in 1976, Apple has continuously pushed the boundaries of design and functionality, earning a reputation for high-quality consumer electronics and software solutions like iOS and macOS. With a strong commitment to user experience and privacy, Apple also leads in digital services, offering platforms such as the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud. The company's focus on sustainability and corporate responsibility further enhances its standing as a leader in the technology sector.