Job Overview:
Apple’s Hardware division is seeking a Product Design Engineer to drive mechanical and mechatronic system designs from concept to validation, requiring close collaboration with cross-functional teams like electrical and controls engineers. The role involves mechanical and mechanism design, integrating electrical components such as sensors and wiring, and developing prototypes while hardening designs for production. Candidates should have a BS in mechanical engineering or similar, at least 5 years of hands-on experience in mechatronic product design, and proficiency in 3D CAD, with Siemens NX being a plus. Strong analytical skills, material selection expertise, and excellent communication abilities are essential, while an advanced degree and leadership experience in full product cycles are preferred.
>> View full job details on Apple’s official website.
Resume and Interview Tips:
When tailoring your resume for the Product Design Engineer position at Apple, emphasize your hands-on experience with mechatronic systems, particularly highlighting projects where you integrated electronics and sensors in tight packaging environments. Showcase your proficiency in 3D CAD tools, especially if you have experience with Siemens NX, as this is a preferred qualification. Detail your involvement in the entire product development cycle, from initial concept to production, and any leadership roles you’ve taken in guiding teams through these phases. Use clear, concise language to describe your mechanical design achievements, quantifying results where possible, such as improvements in performance or reductions in size or cost. Your resume should reflect strong analytical skills and your ability to collaborate across disciplines, so include examples of successful cross-functional teamwork and presentations to multidisciplinary groups.
During the interview, expect deep dives into your technical expertise in mechanism design and mechatronic systems. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you faced packaging challenges and how you overcame them, as this is a key requirement. The interviewer will likely probe your problem-solving approach, so structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your thought process and outcomes. Demonstrate your proficiency with CAD tools by discussing complex designs you’ve created or optimized. Since collaboration is critical, be ready to share examples of how you’ve worked with electrical and controls engineers to bring a product to life. Finally, highlight your communication skills by presenting technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you’ll need to do this regularly in the role. Dress professionally but consider Apple’s culture—smart casual is often appropriate, but lean toward polished and neat.