AirPods Firmware Engineering Manager

Cupertino Until 9/21/2026 5+ years exp First posted July 23, 2026 Last posted July 23, 2026
Job description

AirPods have redefined how people listen to music, take calls, and experience the world around them, and they continue to evolve with new products and technologies shipping every year. We are looking for an experienced engineering leader to own the technology and product development for AirPods. You will build, grow, and inspire a high-performing engineering team, setting technical direction while partnering closely with hardware, software, design, and quality teams across Apple. This is a high-impact role at the center of one of Apple's most beloved product lines, with direct influence over the features and experiences that reach millions worldwide.

Description

This is a high-visibility role leading firmware engineering for one of Apple's most iconic product lines. As a manager, you will play a significant part in product development by working in a highly collaborative, rapidly changing environment to integrate new technologies into our designs. You will contribute at every stage of the Apple product development cycle, from concept to production, driving both individual product features and overall system validation.
The people here at Apple don't just build products, they build the kind of wonder that's revolutionized entire industries. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, as you will partner closely with team members and engineering teams across Apple.

Minimum Qualifications

5+ years of hands-on experience in firmware, device driver development, or equivalent
3+ years leading an embedded software or firmware development team
Expertise and proficiency in C
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
B.S. or M.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent experience

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with RTOS embedded development and multithreaded programming
Experience with MCUs, peripherals, features, and development environments
Knowledge of USB and wireless technologies
Passion for product ownership and a track record of successful product development
Ability to coordinate the efforts of multiple teams
Highly organized, creative, and passionate about achieving results

About this role

Summary

Lead firmware development and team for AirPods, collaborating across hardware and software teams

Job title

AirPods Firmware Engineering Manager

Experience level

5+ years

Minimum experience

5+ years exp

Industry

technology

Location requirements

Must be based in Cupertino, remote work not specified

Salary

Not specified

Management role

Yes

Skills & keywords

Required skills

firmwareCdevice drivercommunication

Preferred skills

RTOSmultithreaded programmingMCUsUSBwireless technologies

Specializations

firmwareembedded softwaredevice driverCRTOS
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

Cupertino, CA, USA

On-site City