Surface Finishing SME

The Advanced Process Lab (APL) is Manufacturing Design's dedicated development space for surface finishing processes. This role focuses on replicating Apple standard finishes, developing novel finishes, and characterizing target finishes to enable successful transfer to vendor production sites.

The Surface Finishing SME will maintain tight process controls both within APL and at supplier locations worldwide, serving as the team's hands-on technical resource for all mechanical and chemical finishing operations.

This is a fully on-site, lab-based position requiring 5 days per week. Domestic and international travel (25%+) is expected to support vendor process implementation and optimization.

Lab Operations and Process Development

• Perform surface finishing processes including sanding, tumbling, polishing, media blasting, and related mechanical finishing techniques
• Develop and optimize cosmetic processes to meet critical quality specifications for color and texture
• Reproduce Apple standard finishes in the APL environment and establish repeatable process parameters
• Investigate and validate new surface finishing processes, techniques, and equipment to advance the team's capabilities
• Manage all lab equipment including preventive maintenance, repair, and replacement within surface finishing space.

Characterization and Quality

• Operate metrology equipment for surface and color characterization.
• Characterize and clearly communicate target finish specifications to internal teams and external suppliers
• Define and document process controls to ensure robust, repeatable outcomes

Supplier and Vendor Engagement

• Evaluate supplier capabilities relative to Apple's finishing requirements and identify shortcomings, work with vendors to tighten process
• Provide on-site support at supplier locations in coordination with Cupertino/APO counterparts for manufacturing process implementation
• Collaborate with chemical vendors and consumable suppliers to optimize material inputs

Analysis and Communication

• Plan, execute, and present results from investigations using statistical analysis methods (DOE, SPC, etc.)
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective action activities when finish quality deviates from spec
• Maintain working knowledge of key process drivers and serve as the subject matter expert on project teams

Currently pursuing a Bachelors, Masters, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline

Hands-on experience operating mechanical finishing equipment (sanding, blasting, polishing, tumbling) to produce or replicate cosmetic finishes

Experience operating metrology equipment for surface and color characterization (spectrophotometer, Zygo, Sensofar, profilometer, etc.)

Understanding of color science theory and/or application

Ability to define clear process controls and documentation for robust manufacturing processes

Strong analytical and communication skills; ability to present technical findings and recommendations clearly

-