Subject Matter Expert (SME) Manager - Surface Finishing - Plating
Join a dynamic team of Subject Matter Experts specializing in the color, material, and finish of Apple products. The Plating SME will be directly involved in creating Apple products from initial concept to mass production. The Surface Finishing SME Manager is responsible for leading planning, implementing, analyzing, and optimizing high volume plating, passivation, etching, and other finishing processes to meet rigorous cosmetic and functional requirements. Work with suppliers, overseas colleagues, cross functional and leadership teams to create robust processes to meet our rigorous functional and cosmetic requirements. A successful candidate will be intimate with plating, etching, passivation, and related chemical finishing operations. The ability to accurately communicate complex technical details to colleagues, cross functional teams, and Apple executives is critical. They will be able to manage multiple concurrent projects, keep calm and focused during difficult situations, be process oriented, and remain flexible & adaptable to the fast pace of mass production.
Manage a team of highly skilled engineers and scientists Manage Apple’s cutting edge cosmetic enclosure design programs with respect to transfer into mass production Recruit and onboard top surface finishing talent, and develop them to become top surface finishing experts and lea Drive innovation programs to leverage Apple’s initiatives in surface finishing space Interface with Universities, Research Institutes and Third Parties who support joint process development activities Present analysis to key decision makers that will be used to make commercial and design commitments Source, develop and interact continuously with key stake holders for processes and equipment Periodically review key milestones with ID, PD and MD peers Periodically review status of key initiatives, prepare status keynotes, offer lectures and training initiatives to share key technology knowledge and experience
- Periodic domestic and overseas travel expected
- 10+ years of management experience
- excellent people and communication skills
- MS in engineering (mechanical, industrial, material science, chemical engineering or equivalent),
- Recognized high profile senior leader in Surface Finishing Industry (preferred Electroplating Technology)
- 10+ years of experience in development of surface finishing processes for mechanical components, preferably in a hands-on role with cosmetic enclosures
- Ability to plan, execute, and present results from investigations using statistical analysis as well as technical judgment
- Superior understanding of mechanical properties of materials as they relate to manufacturing requirements
- Ability to reconcile DFM feedback with design goals
- Specific experience in implementing surface treatment and / or electroplating processes in a high volume environment.
- Previous equipment selection and implementation experience
- Record of innovation in Surface Finishing Industry,
- Recognized high profile senior leader in Surface Finishing Industry (preferred Electroplating)
- Experience using advanced analytical tools, methods and approaches to characterize and resolve complex technical issues and drive development initiatives
- Excellent skills and understanding of DOE principles and statistics
- Excellent and proven skills in problem solving
- Experience and passion to interact complex development programs with international suppliers
- Experience and passion to interact with international teams of engineers and scientist.
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.
