Tribologist
Core
Senior tribology expert defining design, test, and qualification strategies for moving interfaces in Apple products to ensure long-term performance.
Role type
Senior IC tribologist (materials engineering)
Builds
Material, coating, and lubrication specifications for moving interfaces in consumer hardware
Domain
Consumer electronics / Materials science / Tribology
Required skills
tribology fundamentals, contact mechanics, friction and wear mechanisms, failure analysis, coupon-level tribology testing, material and coating selection
Preferred skills
surface engineering and coatings (PVD/CVD, DLC, nitriding, anodizing), lubrication (boundary, damping greases, solid lubricants), polymer and elastomer tribology, tribocorrosion, custom test rig design, mentoring technicians
Technologies
PVD, CVD, DLC, nitriding, anodizing, simulation tools for contact mechanics
Responsibilities
Set technical direction for tribology across product lines; lead tribological characterization and failure analysis; translate findings into design choices for materials and coatings; expand lab capability and train technicians; partner with modeling teams to develop predictive tools; coordinate with cross-functional teams on holistic surface solutions
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC
