Hardware Architect - Information Security

Hardware Architect - Information Security

Seattle, Washington, United States Corporate Functions

Apple Information Security is responsible for protecting Apple’s data in transit and at rest. Apple employees and partners are always moving information from one system to another, or storing it on a server or device. Our job is to make sure Apple's information doesn't fall into the wrong hands. We are looking for a self-motivated individual with an intuition for security who is not afraid to question assumptions. The ability to be results-driven and comfortable with dynamic requirements, as well as having excellent interpersonal and time management skills, are keys to success in this position. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with multi-functional partners both internal and external to Apple to build innovative security products. You will support the development of embedded systems designed to enhance Apple’s security posture. You will be challenged to provide forward-thinking solutions to problems and to be a good teammate under deadline constraints. Show us your talent in this challenging, fun, and exciting environment. It’s what makes us Apple.

Description

As a Hardware Architect in Apple Information Security, you will:

• Own & establish the vision for future generations of security hardware.
• Translate security features into high-level HW/SW specifications and derive HW requirements to design a product.
• Manage the program seeking to realize the vision - hardware design, development, manufacturing, and deployment.
• Map the design concept to available components, developing a bill of materials for manufacturer(s).
• Identify suitable components based on requirements.
• Validate end-to-end functionality, performance and reliability.
• Integrate feedback on current hardware into future designs.
• Generate performance projections for future systems.
• Research market benchmarks, including performance, cost, and scope of application.
• Be challenged to work under pressure and with ambiguity.
• Be adept at shifting directions and priorities.
• Be detail-oriented and self-motivated.
• Demonstrate excellence at multitasking, organizing, and prioritizing complex projects to meet deadlines.
• Cultivate your network by meeting new colleagues from across the business.

Minimum Qualifications

• BS in electrical or computer engineering, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 8 years relevant industry work experience.
• Ability to comprehend and develop hardware specifications, component selections, block diagrams, and schematics.
• Experience leading architecture reviews and approving system specifications.
• Understanding of security architecture and threat models.
• Guiding architecture tradeoff decisions at an executive level.
• Familiarity with DFT, DFM, and DFR principles.
• Understanding of performance modeling, including power/performance budgeting & simulation tools.
• Knowledge of hardware/software co-design and interface standards.
• Ability to create diagrams and make concise presentations to clearly present information to cross‑functional teams.
• Experience in hardware abstraction & firmware interface definition.
• Self‑driven with the ability to work autonomously while managing multiple simultaneous work tracks.
• Proven leadership of complex system development from concept to production bring‑up.
• Ability to thrive in a self‑directed, fast‑paced environment, that is highly collaborative and multi‑functional.
• Strong written and presentation skills, able to communicate effectively with engineers and senior leaders.
• Ability to build and maintain strong internal and external collaborative relationships.

Preferred Qualifications

• MS in electrical or computer engineering, or equivalent work experience.
• Experience in system architecture development, including driver and firmware development.
• Schematic entry and management of design constraints for high‑speed PCB layout using Cadence tools or similar.
• Exceptional HW/SW problem solving skills.
• Proven ability to ramp up quickly on new technologies.
• Experience using test & measurement equipment.
• Working knowledge of power supply design fundamentals.

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 $171,600 and $302,200, 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.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.

Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.