Haptics Firmware Engineer

We are looking for a creative, motivated, and passionate embedded software engineer to develop Taptic Engine firmware for next-generation Apple products, including iPhone, Watch, and Mac. Come join a tightly-integrated team of hardworking engineers to deliver world-class haptic experiences that will be enjoyed by millions of customers. In this role you’ll collaborate with teams across the company, including Hardware, Software, QA, and Design.

Description

As a firmware engineer in haptics, you will work on all stages of the product development cycle with a vertically-integrated technology team.

You will bring up proof-of-concept prototypes and demos to help Design teams explore and evaluate new interactions

To ensure we craft well-considered features, you will architect low-latency, end-to-end haptics solutions with touch/force sensors by collecting requirements, constructing block diagrams, and reviewing hardware schematics; you will also negotiate and specify communication protocols, operating modes, and feature requirements with software driver teams

You will develop and document firmware features on prototype hardware and custom silicon, integrating actuator control algorithms with tight real-time requirements using DSP concepts, while working with factory teams to meet test and calibration requirements

To meet our especially high quality bar, you will bench-test firmware to ensure it meets performance, power, and thermal requirements; and you will debug and root cause issues with QA to deliver high-quality, robust firmware to production

Preferred Qualifications

M.S. with advanced courses in Embedded Systems, Controls, and/or Signal Processing

Working knowledge of closed-loop control systems and experience implementing low-level control algorithms in embedded environments preferred

Development of production DSP or FPGA firmware for haptic or audio applications preferred

Minimum Qualifications

B.S. in CS/CE/ECE or related fields and 3+ years relevant industry experience

Expertise in C or C++ for embedded systems

Experience interfacing microcontrollers with sensors and actuators (e.g. LRA, VCA, Piezo)

Knowledge of embedded peripherals / protocols (e.g. DMA, USB, UART, SPI, I2C)

Board bring-up and debug skills with JTAG, mixed-signal oscilloscopes, and/or logic analyzers

Experience with AI-assisted development tools and LLM applications in software / firmware development

Independent work ethic with strong attention to detail

Excellent communication and teamwork skills

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 $147,400 and $272,100, 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

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