R&D Line Equipment and Process Associate Engineer

Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every product we build, every service we create, and every experience we deliver is the result of us making each other's ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It's the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you'll do more than join something, you'll add something.

Apple is seeking a highly motivated Associate Engineer to join the Panel Process and Optics (PPO) Engineering team within the Display Technologies organization. This engineer will support the R&D pilot line for next-generation optical modules, with responsibilities spanning equipment DFM, bring-up, tooling design, AOI inspection, module process development, failure analysis and troubleshooting, build execution, and equipment sustainment. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in equipment and process engineering, hands-on troubleshooting skills, and exposure to the full equipment development cycle, from concept design to deployment and long-term maintenance.

Description
In this role, you will:

- Operate and maintain a wide range of R&D equipment to support technology development and engineering builds.

- Assist in equipment bring-up, setup, calibration, preventative maintenance, and structured troubleshooting.

- Support equipment DFM (design for manufacturability) and tooling/fixture design to enable robust and scalable processes.

- Conduct AOI inspection, process development trials, and failure analysis to drive continuous improvement.

- Execute engineering builds, collect data, and support DOE (Design of Experiments) and process optimization.

- Manage engineering materials, components, and parts — receiving, tracking, and maintaining usage accuracy.

- Document build results, track deviations, and communicate issues clearly for rapid resolution.

- Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering teams, vendors, and facility partners to implement test plans, integrate process changes, and enable equipment move-in or retrofits.

- Follow safety protocols, cleanroom guidelines, and standard operating procedures at all times.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or above in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Material Science, Physics, or related technical field.

2+ years of hands-on experience in equipment operation, process development, metrology operation or failure analysis.

Experience working in a cleanroom environment with equipment and process handling.

Familiarity with equipment troubleshooting, calibration, and sustainment.

Ability to read and follow technical instructions in both English and Mandarin.

Flexible to support different work shifts, including day/night or 2-days-on/2-days-off rotations.

Fluent in English communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications
Hands-on experience with equipment used in mechanical assembly, bonding, coating, dispensing, optical alignment, or AOI inspection.

Knowledge of equipment DFM, fixture/tooling design, and process integration.

Experience with DOE execution, data analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Exposure to the equipment development lifecycle, from concept design to retrofit, deployment and sustainment.

Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently or in fast-paced team environments.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity, and thus we treat all applicants fairly and equally. Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities.

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