> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3077801-product-design-engineering-lead](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3077801-product-design-engineering-lead). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Product Design Engineering Lead - **Company:** Apple Inc. - **Location:** Austin, TX, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Computer-Aided Design, Data Analysis, Hardware Design, Python (Programming Language), LabVIEW, MATLAB, JMP (Statistical Software) - **Published:** September 25, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.dice.com/job-detail/c9f7b679-ae54-49cb-a678-594d23cb4a1a ## About the Role BS in Mechanical Engineering or a similar technical discipline, with a minimum of 5 years of experience as an individual contributor on an R&D or test/measurement-focused team. Experience in applying engineering first principles to evaluate the performance of designs. Demonstrated experience in the use or design of multiple measurement systems. Examples include: mechanical test systems (Instron), thermal chambers, drop towers, shock towers, vibration tables, and optical metrology equipment. Familiarity with sensor technologies, data acquisition systems, and fundamental analog/digital signal processing techniques. Strong technical communication skills with experience aligning cross-functional teams and stakeholders across multiple sites. Proficient in MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, JMP, or similar data analysis tools. Experience using CAD and basic lab tools to enable the design and fabrication of test fixtures and measurement systems. Ability to navigate ambiguity in early-stage product development Preferred Qualifications Advanced degrees are valued, but applicable hands-on experience is still required. 3+ years of experience managing an R&D, test/measurement, or product design team with direct hands-on technical credibility, delivering actionable data to drive design decisions. Ability to build collaborative relationships with cross-functional stakeholders. Understanding of the use of and ability to interpret computational mechanics in complex multi-physics behaviors (e.g., structural, thermal, vibrational, fatigue). Proficiency in statistics to ensure proper interpretation of your data. Experience evaluating and incubating emerging sensor technologies to innovate on lab capabilities. ## Description We are looking for a leader to manage a product characterization team in Austin. As the technical leader of this team, you will guide a group of engineers, steward a broad and evolving set of lab spaces and characterization equipment, and serve as a key connector between product design and customer experience. Your combination of technical credibility, people leadership, and relationship building will open doors for bold experimentation early in the hardware development cycle., In this role, you will support the product design teams based in Austin (such as Mac, iPad, and input devices), providing them with data and creative solutions that help drive design decisions. You will work directly with the design teams to develop and implement custom mechanical characterizations for parts and prototypes. Beyond your direct support, you'll also lead both lead day-to-day operations and engage in longer-horizon planning for the characterization lab. You will manage a small but diverse team of engineers, partner with a lab manager to oversee lab safety and equipment readiness, and work closely with Product Design leads to ensure the lab is meeting the evolving needs of product teams. Additionally, you'll help your team develop their careers, foster a culture of creative problem-solving, and build collaborative relationships that allow researchers and engineers to think of the lab as a true partner. ## Related Videos - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [Data Science in Retail](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/586-data-science-in-retail) - [Lessons from Steve Jobs - Learnings from the Past for the Future](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1021-lessons-from-steve-jobs-learnings-from-the-past-for-the-future) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) - [Data Science on Software Data](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/162-data-science-on-software-data) ## Related Articles - [What’s the Difference between a Junior, Mid, and Senior Developer?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/238-what-s-the-difference-between-a-junior-mid-and-senior-developer) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know) - [How to Become an AI Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/331-how-to-become-an-ai-engineer) - [Top Characteristics of a Software Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/166-top-characteristics-of-a-software-engineer)