Principal Counsel, IP —

IP Special Deals & Analytics Cupertino, California, United States Corporate Functions Summary Posted:

Sep 15, 2026

Role Number:

200682822-0836 Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming great products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. As part of Apple's IP Special Deals & Analytics team, you'll uphold Apple's high ethical and corporate standards and defend our intellectual property. Working for a company that invents entire categories means you'll creatively apply your deep legal expertise to unique challenges that often involve unsettled aspects of the law. We're looking for a seasoned IP and competition law practitioner to lead the development and execution of strategic approaches for navigating the IP dimensions of platform regulation, antitrust enforcement, and related litigation matters worldwide. You'll be a subject matter expert at the intersection of IP and competition law, serving as a trusted advisor who can independently assess the global landscape, shape Apple's positions, identify and manage risks, and drive strategic opportunities to improve outcomes. You must have outstanding initiative, judgment, and written and verbal communication skills. Description As Principal Counsel on Apple's IP Special Deals & Analytics team, you'll lead the formulation and execution of strategy at the interface of IP, competition, and regulatory law. You'll serve as a senior advisor to internal clients, providing counsel on complex, high-stakes matters involving platform regulation, FRAND obligations, and antitrust enforcement actions with IP dimensions. You'll develop creative, pragmatic approaches to highly complex and novel issues, often where established precedent does not exist, while maintaining an acceptable level of legal risk. The position requires a high degree of self-sufficiency, independent judgment, and a results-oriented approach. Responsibilities Lead strategy development for IP-related competition and regulatory matters worldwide. Serve as a primary advisor on the intersection of IP rights and antitrust and competition law, including platform regulation, FRAND issues, and regulatory enforcement proceedings. Navigate significant and unique questions where outcomes are uncertain and analysis requires evaluation of intangibles. Build and maintain formal coordination networks across product, engineering, policy, business, and other legal teams to align legal strategy with business objectives. Monitor and assess global competition and regulatory developments and advise leadership on risks, opportunities, and positioning with respect to IP. Develop and advocate Apple's positions in industry forums, regulatory consultations, and standard-setting organizations as needed. Mentor and guide other attorneys and team members, and act as an informal team lead on specific matters. Minimum Qualifications J.D. from an accredited law school; admission to at least one US state bar. 12+ years of legal experience, with substantial focus on IP litigation and competition/antitrust law. Deep familiarity with global competition frameworks. Track record of managing complex, multi-jurisdictional legal matters with significant business impact. Preferred Qualifications Experience in-house at a technology company or at a top-tier firm representing technology clients. Technical background or demonstrated ability to quickly grasp complex technical subject matter. Experience with platform regulation, FRAND issues, standards-related IP policies, and engaging with regulatory authorities. Experience advising on legislative and regulatory policy initiatives. 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 $272,500 and $408,900, 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.

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. At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You'll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong. Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.