Optical Science Engineer, Exploratory Design Engineering
Apple
Design
Cupertino, CA, USA
USD 181,100-318,400 / year + Equity
Posted on May 2, 2026
We are seeking a multidisciplinary systems engineer to join our team in an exploratory capacity. This role focuses on early-stage technology exploration, feasibility assessment, and architectural definition for potential future sensing and platform capabilities. You will work at the intersection of multiple technical domains to evaluate emerging technologies, define system requirements, and develop proof-of-concept prototypes that inform product direction.
This role operates in an exploratory, research-oriented environment where ambiguity and iteration are expected. You will have the autonomy to pursue promising technical directions while collaborating closely with cross-functional partners to ensure alignment with product and platform goals.
- Conduct technology feasibility assessments across sensing modalities including optics, RF, and related domains
- Design and build experimental prototype systems to evaluate technology trade-offs
- Perform system modeling, simulation, and analysis to guide architecture decisions under technical constraints
- Develop and execute benchtop characterization experiments to measure system performance and identify technical risks
- Collaborate cross-functionally with hardware, software, algorithm, and product teams to explore solutions in ambiguous problem spaces
- Document findings, trade-offs, and recommendations to inform technology roadmaps and architectural decisions
- Stay current on emerging technologies and research relevant to future platform capabilities
- BS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or related technical field
- Experience in at least two technical domains (e.g., optics, sensing, RF, instrumentation, signal processing)
- Demonstrated experience translating requirements into system architectures and design specifications
- Hands-on experience with experimental prototype development and benchtop characterization
- Experience with technical computing tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python) for modeling, simulation, and data analysis
- PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or related field
- 10+ years of experience in system architecture, exploratory engineering, or related roles
- Experience with optical system design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V)
- Background in sensing technologies, bioengineering instrumentation, or consumer electronics
- Experience working in exploratory or advanced development environments, with a track record of solving complex technical problems with limited specifications or constraints
- Strong quantitative analysis skills and comfort working with uncertainty
- Excellent communication skills with ability to present technical concepts to diverse audiences
- Experience mentoring or leading technical investigations