Inertial Sensor Architect San Diego, California, United States Hardware Summary Posted:

Aug 06, 2026

Role Number:

200676486-3543 The inertial sensor team develops and integrates inertial sensors across a variety of programs including iPhone, iPad, Watch, AirPods, Vision Pro, and more.

You will play a key role in engaging with external vendors and internal customers to specify, develop and characterize inertial sensing systems for consumer applications. You should be familiar with inertial sensor development such as design, performance metrics, inertial sensor usage, and system integration.

Engineering excellence and thoroughness are expected and encouraged. Invention and patent creation are expected and supported. Opening up the boundaries to design and ship innovative products with outstanding technologies and user experiences is the main goal of this sensing technology team at Apple. Description You will be responsible for defining inertial sensor roadmaps, infrastructure, core technologies, specifications, and qualification requirements as well as reviewing and approving verification results. This work uses your ability to identify, create, and document new sensing system metrics that deliver performance pertinent to user experience. Responsibilities Scoping new sensing technologies and proof-of-concept investigations. Interacting with suppliers and drive sensor designs to enable new and improved user experience. Diagnose engineering issues with scientific method driving to definitive root cause. Prepare and deliver presentations to clearly communicate technical status, risks and mitigation strategies for sensor projects. Minimum Qualifications BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience Experience in architecture, design, characterization, and validation of inertial sensing systems Willingness and ability to travel are required Preferred Qualifications Ph.D + 10 years of hands-on experience and proven track record in inertial sensing hardware development Proficient in the theory of operation, signal processing, fabrication, packaging and design trade-offs Fundamental knowledge and experience in physics, mechanical, electrical, and material science engineering, and manufacturing technology relevant to sensor fabrication Expertise in simulation, data collection, data analysis, and statistical analysis tools (e.g., ANSYS Multiphysics, MATLAB, JMP, Python) Executive level written and verbal communication skills and solid teamwork and leadership skills Prior experience with sensor modeling and experimental validation is plus 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 $175,000 and $308,500, 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.