Surface Finishing - Subject Matter Expert (SME) - Plating
Join a dynamic team of Subject Matter Experts specializing in the color, material, and finish of Apple products. The Plating SME will be directly involved in creating Apple products from initial concept to mass production.
The Surface Finishing SME is responsible for planning, implementing, analyzing, and optimizing high volume plating, passivation, etching, and other finishing processes to meet rigorous cosmetic and functional requirements. Work with suppliers, overseas colleagues, cross functional and leadership teams to create robust processes to meet our rigorous functional and cosmetic requirements.
A successful candidate will be intimate with plating, etching, passivation, and related chemical finishing operations. The ability to accurately communicate complex technical details to colleagues, cross functional teams, and Apple executives is critical. They will be able to manage multiple concurrent projects, keep calm and focused during difficult situations, be process oriented, and remain flexible & adaptable to the fast pace of mass production.
Enable the cosmetic requirements set by Apple designers by developing processes to match their desired finish. This includes creating initial samples, and developing the process necessary to meet their desired finishes.
Evaluate supplier capabilities and, if necessary, address production gaps by implementing advanced manufacturing processes and control methods.
Monitor and adjust the manufacturing processes throughout the product development cycle to reliably meet functional and cosmetic requirements in mass production.
Present technical and process analysis to key decision makers that will be used to make commercial, cosmetic and design decisions.
- Minimum 10 years experience in anodizing, plating, etching, or related chemical surface finishing operation.
- Bachelor degree in engineering, chemistry, materials science, or related field. Master degree is a plus.
- Experience using a variety of mechanical processes and chemical finishing processes to meet tight cosmetic and functional requirements.
- Experience with highly cosmetic consumer electronics devices preferred.
- Excellent problem solving skills, and the ability to drive root cause analysis and corrective action activities.
- Experience in a multinational organization working on cross-functional teams.
- Minimum average, preferably superior color discrimination ability.
- Attention to detail, consistent follow-through, and the ability to remain focused on strategic goals while managing day-to-day project activities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Frequent overseas travel expected.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.