February 19, 2025

Synthetic Chemist

Mid • On-site

$128,300 - $237,500/yr

Boulder, CO

Summary

Posted:
Role Number:200591874
The Vision Display Group (VDG) team crafts and develops groundbreaking display technologies to support Apple’s outstanding product line. This includes development, optimization, and integration of display material, optics, and process to deliver outstanding optical, mechanical, and reliability performances. We champion a collaborative and hands-on environment that fosters engineering excellence, creativity, and innovation. As part of Apple's design and development team, this person will be contributing to exciting new products that will touch lives of millions and enrich their career with invaluable experience! We are looking for a skilled synthetic organic chemist with a proven track record of design and synthesis of wide range of small molecules and understanding of polymer chemistry. Hands-on experience and a background in total synthesis of small organic molecules and polymers is required. Specifically, we are seeking a scientist who understands how to control and optimize properties of the materials via introduction of chemical groups/different functionalities, capable of constructing structure property relationships, and performing quick proof of concept synthesis. A successful candidate will work with cross-functional teams and vendors to design, develop, and support materials development efforts for our next-generation products!

Description

- Design, synthesis, and characterization of novel compounds at both lab and pilot scale. This includes identifying and sourcing raw materials with desired functions, synthesis, characterization and process optimization. - Synthesis of high purity materials with specific physicochemical properties, eg refractive index, optical transmittance. - Process of components into products with desired properties to meet Apple’s product specifications - Develop and validate Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) metrics and quantitative analytical methods from raw material selection to formulation to final component fabrication to ensure all aspects of new product launch initiative are managed and controlled. - Correlate materials-level analytical data to final component/system performances to define materials-level and in-process specifications. - Lead efforts in failure analysis of both materials and component level issues and develop/validate effective solutions - Transfer synthesis and process findings and specifications to manufacturing partners through effective communication, training, and documentation - Work with cross-functional teams to investigate and explore new functional materials concepts, determine technical feasibility, and project implementation plan beyond initial proof of concept.

Minimum Qualifications

  • M.S. with 5+ years of experience in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, polymer science, materials science or related field
  • Experience in small molecule and polymer synthesis
  • Experience with molecular as well as material characterization laboratory tools - NMR, chromatography, optical and thermomechanical properties, etc

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ph.D in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, polymer science, materials science or related field
  • Knowledge of modern chemistry/organic chemistry/materials including concept, literature, methods
  • Thinking outside of the box and creativity
  • Proven record of successful development of novel organic materials
  • Utilization of property predictive chemical software and basic knowledge of computational chemistry
  • Ability to work independently
  • Experience and knowledge in product development (pilot scale) and ultimate translation to manufacturing
  • Understanding of Circular Economy Concept and green chemistry
  • Willingness and ability to travel
  • In-depth understanding of structure-process-property relationships of components and polymer products.
  • Broad knowledge of chemistry and materials development
  • Experience in fundamental failure analysis methodology to derive a root cause of failure
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Solid collaboration and leadership skills.

Pay & Benefits

  • 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 $128,300 and $237,500, 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 take affirmative action to ensure 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.