Job Details

Subject Matter Expert (SME) Manager - Surface Finishing - Plating

Cupertino, California, United States

Operations and Supply Chain

Summary

Posted: Jul 24, 2025

Role Number: 200600151

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 Manager is responsible for leading 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.

Description

Manage a team of highly skilled engineers and scientists
Manage Apple’s cutting edge cosmetic enclosure design programs with respect to transfer into mass production
Recruit and onboard top surface finishing talent, and develop them to become top surface finishing experts and lea
Drive innovation programs to leverage Apple’s initiatives in surface finishing space
Interface with Universities, Research Institutes and Third Parties who support joint process development activities
Present analysis to key decision makers that will be used to make commercial and design commitments
Source, develop and interact continuously with key stake holders for processes and equipment
Periodically review key milestones with ID, PD and MD peers
Periodically review status of key initiatives, prepare status keynotes, offer lectures and training initiatives to share key technology knowledge and experience

Minimum Qualifications

• Periodic domestic and overseas travel expected

• 10+ years of management experience

• excellent people and communication skills

• MS in engineering (mechanical, industrial, material science, chemical engineering or equivalent),

• Recognized high profile senior leader in Surface Finishing Industry (preferred Electroplating Technology)

• 10+ years of experience in development of surface finishing processes for mechanical components, preferably in a hands-on role with cosmetic enclosures

• Ability to plan, execute, and present results from investigations using statistical analysis as well as technical judgment

• Superior understanding of mechanical properties of materials as they relate to manufacturing requirements

• Ability to reconcile DFM feedback with design goals

Preferred Qualifications

• Specific experience in implementing surface treatment and / or electroplating processes in a high volume environment.

• Previous equipment selection and implementation experience

• Record of innovation in Surface Finishing Industry,

• Recognized high profile senior leader in Surface Finishing Industry (preferred Electroplating)

• Experience using advanced analytical tools, methods and approaches to characterize and resolve complex technical issues and drive development initiatives

• Excellent skills and understanding of DOE principles and statistics

• Excellent and proven skills in problem solving

• Experience and passion to interact complex development programs with international suppliers

• Experience and passion to interact with international teams of engineers and scientist.

Pay & Benefits

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 $196,200 and $295,000, 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. (https://www.apple.com/careers/us/benefits.html)

Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.

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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

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 (https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf) .

Apple will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants who inquire about, disclose, or discuss their compensation.

Apple participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law.Learn more about the E-Verify program (https://www.apple.com/jobs/pdf/EverifyPosterEnglish.pdf) .

Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple is a drug-free workplace. Reasonable Accommodation and Drug Free Workplace policy Learn more .

Apple will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable law. If you’re applying for a position in San Francisco, review the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance guidelines applicable in your area.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.