Firmware Engineer - AirPods

Apple

USonsite$185k-$325k/yrPosted Mar 23, 2026
Posting intelligenceMay be filled, listed long ago

Skills

c++

About the role

The AirPods Firmware team is looking for an enthusiastic firmware engineer to join us. This is an individual contributor role where you'll develop the platform technologies and drive the system integration of features across the AirPods lineup. You'll have the opportunity to influence the technology and product roadmap for Apple's consumer audio products, working with a wide cross-functional team to continually push the boundaries of what's possible.

Description

As a Firmware Engineer on the AirPods team, you will architect, develop, and deliver platform and product firmware for Apple's audio products. This is a high-impact, high-visibility role, and an opportunity to shape the technologies that define the customer experience for millions of people worldwide.

You'll work across a range of technologies, from low-level system architecture to product-specific features, and have real influence over the design and development of future products. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential; you'll regularly partner with cross functional teams to define what comes next.

","responsibilities":"Fully engage and contribute at every stage of the Apple product development cycle, from concept to production, driving both individual product features and overall system validation activities

Play a lead role in defining system architecture to implement new products and features

Design, implement, debug, and test embedded C/C++ code running on 32-bit MCUs for Apple-branded audio products

Scope, define, and evaluate custom silicon ICs for next-generation Apple audio products

Collaborate with marketing and cross-functional engineering teams to define product features and requirements

Support electrical bring-up and debugging of prototype hardware

Provide software to enable the prototyping and evaluation of new hardware technologies and designs

Support product development activities at partner facilities domestically and internationally

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience

Familiarity with real-time audio technologies (sample rates, buffering, I2S, PCM, drivers).

Knowledge of USB or wireless technologies

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience

7+ years of proven excellence in firmware, embedded software, embedded product development, or equivalent experience

Solid C/C++ coding abilities

Strong embedded system design and software debugging skills

Experience with MCUs, peripherals, features, and development environments

Passion for product ownership and track record of product development

Excellent written and verbal communication 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 $184,700 and $324,800, 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.

Compensation

This Firmware Engineer role pays $185k-$325k/yr. Within typical range for firmware engineer roles in United States.

Questions about this role

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Compensation for Firmware Engineer roles in United States varies widely by seniority, employer size, and remote vs onsite arrangement. Check the salary range on this listing when published, or browse our Firmware Engineer hub for United States medians across recent openings.

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