📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Marcom Packaging Research & Development Senior Print Expert
🔹 Company: Apple
🔹 Location: Sunnyvale, California, United States
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Packaging & Printing
🔹 Date Posted: May 14, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site (with domestic and international travel)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Leading and supporting projects to enhance print technology and sustainability for packaging components
- Collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers to implement next-generation printing technologies
- Troubleshooting technical issues during print development projects
- Traveling domestically and internationally for project execution
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of technical expertise and experience in the packaging and printing industry. It also demands strong communication skills to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Lead or support projects to develop print processes and solutions to improve print technology, post-print graphic treatment, print quality, and print sustainability for packaging components
✅ Engage with internal partner teams in design, materials, engineering, manufacturing, and procurement, as well as external packaging supply chain, to implement and execute projects
✅ Support troubleshooting of technical issues during print development projects across all product lines, as needed
✅ Available for both domestic and international travel (at least 15 percent of time)
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, hands-on technical work, and collaboration with various teams. It requires a versatile skill set and the ability to adapt to different situations.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Not specified (10+ years of experience is the primary qualification)
Experience: 10+ years of experience leading technical projects in the field of consumer packaging, sustainable packaging materials, fine art graphic printing, and/or application equipment
Required Skills:
- Deep understanding of printing processes, especially with fiber-based substrates
- Ability to solve print-related issues with various inks, coating, adhesives, print decoration (cold foil) and finishing technologies
- Experience with packaging manufacturing and quality systems
- Knowledge of statistical and data analysis tools, interpretation results, and presentations to inform data-driven decision making
Preferred Skills:
- Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
- Inventive and enthusiastic problem solver
- Deep industry networker with connections to printing and finishing suppliers
- In-depth understanding of color management and experience with industry color management and print standards
- Proficiency in Mac applications; database management systems; Adobe Illustrator, and Acrobat; and the Microsoft Office suite
ASSUMPTION: The required and preferred qualifications listed are essential for success in this role. Candidates should possess a strong technical background and demonstrate excellent communication skills.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (based on industry standards for a senior role in packaging and printing)
Benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) matching and employee stock purchase plan
- Generous time off and paid family leave
- On-site fitness centers and wellness programs
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with the possibility of overtime during peak project periods
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a senior role in packaging and printing. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience and performance.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Apple operates in the highly competitive and innovative consumer electronics and technology industry. The company is known for its commitment to design, quality, and sustainability.
Company Size: Apple is a large, multinational corporation with over 200,000 employees worldwide. This size offers opportunities for career growth and exposure to diverse projects.
Founded: Apple was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. The company has since grown to become one of the world's most valuable brands.
Company Description:
- Apple is dedicated to bringing the best user experience to its customers through its innovative hardware, software, and services
- The company is committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility
- Apple's culture fosters creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning
Company Specialties:
- Design and development of consumer electronics, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV
- Software development, including iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS
- Services, such as the App Store, Apple Music, iCloud, and Apple Pay
Company Website: apple.com
ASSUMPTION: Apple's large size and diverse product portfolio offer numerous opportunities for career growth and development within the packaging and printing field.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is a senior-level position, requiring a high degree of expertise and experience in the packaging and printing industry.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Print Expert will report to the Marcom Packaging Research & Development team and work closely with various internal teams and external suppliers.
Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with the expectation of domestic and international travel (at least 15 percent of time).
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to lead larger projects and mentor junior team members
- Opportunities to work on cutting-edge packaging technologies and sustainable materials
- Possibility to transition into other senior roles within Apple's packaging or broader organization
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth opportunities for candidates with the right skills and experience, as Apple continues to invest in and innovate within the packaging and printing space.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Apple's Sunnyvale office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and innovation.
Office Location(s): Sunnyvale, California, United States
Geographic Context:
- Sunnyvale is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offering easy access to tech industry hubs and networking opportunities
- The area is known for its mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters
- Sunnyvale is a multicultural city with a diverse range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options
Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week), with the possibility of overtime during peak project periods
ASSUMPTION: The Sunnyvale office provides a dynamic and engaging work environment, with ample opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial phone or video screen to assess communication skills and technical background
- Technical interview with the Marcom Packaging Research & Development team to discuss past projects and problem-solving abilities
- On-site interview with a mix of technical and non-technical stakeholders to evaluate cultural fit and leadership potential
- Final interview with the hiring manager to discuss career aspirations and make a hiring decision
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical expertise in printing processes and packaging manufacturing
- Problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot print-related issues
- Communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal
- Cultural fit and alignment with Apple's values and work environment
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills, using specific examples to demonstrate your technical expertise
- Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects and accomplishments in packaging and printing
- Research Apple's products, values, and company culture to demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with the organization
ATS Keywords: Printing processes, packaging manufacturing, quality systems, statistical analysis, data interpretation, communication skills, problem-solving, color management, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office, interpersonal skills, technical troubleshooting, packaging innovations
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is likely to be competitive, given Apple's reputation and the senior-level nature of the position. Candidates should focus on demonstrating their technical expertise and cultural fit throughout the interview process.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Mac applications (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Acrobat, Microsoft Office)
- Database management systems
- Printing and finishing equipment (e.g., presses, coating machines, embellishment equipment)
- Color management software and tools (e.g., ISO 12647, 15339, GRACoL2013)
ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role are industry-standard and should be familiar to candidates with a strong background in packaging and printing.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Accessibility
- Education
- Environmental Stewardship
- Inclusion and Diversity
- Privacy
- Quality
- Safety
- Vitality
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Innovative and forward-thinking
- Results-driven and focused on delivering high-quality products
- Adaptable and able to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Apple's commitment to accessibility and environmental stewardship in your packaging and printing work?
- Can you describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in a project or work environment, and how did you handle it?
- How do you approach working with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve common goals?
ASSUMPTION: Apple's culture values innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to quality and sustainability. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their alignment with these values throughout the interview process.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects simultaneously, with varying priorities and deadlines
- Working with a diverse range of stakeholders, including internal teams and external suppliers
- Keeping up with the latest printing technologies and industry trends
- Adapting to a dynamic work environment, with the possibility of frequent travel
ASSUMPTION: The challenges associated with this role are primarily related to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the packaging and printing industry, as well as the need to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique to Apple, focusing on the packaging and printing needs of a large, innovative technology company
- Compared to other senior print expert roles, this position offers the opportunity to work on high-visibility projects with a significant impact on Apple's products and brand
- Career paths within Apple's packaging organization may include transitioning into other senior roles, such as packaging engineering or supply chain management
ASSUMPTION: This role is distinct from other senior print expert positions due to Apple's unique product portfolio and commitment to innovation and sustainability in packaging and printing.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a new printing process to improve the sustainability of Apple's product packaging
- Collaborating with design and engineering teams to optimize print quality and consistency across Apple's product lines
- Troubleshooting print-related issues during the development of a new product launch, ensuring on-time delivery and high-quality results
ASSUMPTION: The sample projects listed are representative of the types of initiatives and challenges a Senior Print Expert might encounter in this role at Apple.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- How does this role fit into Apple's broader packaging and printing strategy, and what are the key priorities for the first 90 days?
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Marcom Packaging Research & Development group?
- How does Apple support the professional development and growth of its employees in the packaging and printing field?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the packaging and printing industry, and how is Apple addressing them?
- How does Apple balance innovation and sustainability in its packaging and printing processes?
ASSUMPTION: The interview questions listed are designed to help candidates better understand the role, team dynamics, and company culture, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing the packaging and printing industry at Apple.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills, using specific examples to demonstrate your technical expertise
- Prepare a portfolio showcasing your past projects and accomplishments in packaging and printing
- Research Apple's products, values, and company culture to demonstrate your enthusiasm and alignment with the organization
- Follow up with a thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview, reiterating your interest in the role and addressing any remaining questions
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
