Hardware Design & Prototyping Engineer

Job Title

Hardware Design & Prototyping Engineer

Role Summary

Member of the Camera Semiconductor Technology team responsible for image sensor characterization hardware development and prototype systems. The role focuses on circuit and PCB design, hardware bring-up, debugging, and building prototype and automation tools to evaluate camera image sensors.

Work cross-functionally with electrical, mechanical, firmware, and system teams to deliver prototype boards and validate functional and performance goals.

Experience Level

Mid-level. Preferred 3+ years of practical PCB design or equivalent industry experience (see Education Requirements for degree expectations).

Responsibilities

Deliver and validate prototype hardware for image sensor evaluation and characterization.

• Define component requirements and develop circuit designs for sensor and module evaluation.
• Develop and/or direct PCB layout designs and oversee fabrication timelines.
• Bring up prototypes, debug electrical issues, and validate designs against functional and performance goals.
• Diagnose power quality, high-speed signal integrity, and I2C/interface problems.
• Build prototype and automation tools to support camera sensor development and testing.
• Document results and present findings to internal and external engineering teams.
• Collaborate across disciplines to support development of next-generation imaging products and features.

Requirements

Must-have skills and practical abilities for immediate contribution; preferred items listed separately.

• Must-have: Hands-on electrical prototyping skills, including soldering of surface-mount components.
• Must-have: Experience with schematic capture and PCB layout tools (examples: Cadence System Capture, Cadence/Allegro).
• Must-have: Experience debugging power quality, high-speed signal integrity, and I2C interfaces.
• Must-have: Ability to plan and execute bring-up, debug, and validation activities for prototype hardware.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with high-speed signal routing, mixed-signal analog/digital PCB design, and component selection.
• Nice-to-have: Familiarity with electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal sources, and power supplies.
• Nice-to-have: Experience with 3D mechanical CAD and cross-functional teamwork or leadership experience.

Education Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a similar technical discipline is stated as the baseline; an MS in a related field is preferred. The posting allows for relevant industry experience in PCB design as an equivalent to formal education ("relevant education background and/or industry experience").

About the Company

Company: Apple

Headquarters: Cupertino, California, United States

Apple is a multinational technology company that designs, manufactures, and sells consumer electronics, software, and online services. Known for its innovative products such as the iPhone, Mac computers, and iPad, Apple emphasizes a strong commitment to high-quality design and user experience.