The User Study & Data Operations Engineer at Apple will lead data collection programs that support the development of emerging hardware and software technologies. This role involves collaborating with algorithm scientists, machine learning researchers, and engineering leads to create effective study designs and test protocols. The engineer will manage both internal prototype labs and external data collection vendors, ensuring high-quality data collection processes. The position requires a strong background in user study operations and human factors testing.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Human Factors, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Life/Physical Sciences, or equivalent job-related experience.
• 3+ years of experience running user study operations, human factors tests, data operations, hardware/software QA, or technical lab operations.
• Experience writing, piloting, and running human-subject test protocols, task sequences, moderator guidelines, or standard operating procedures.
• Experience working directly with technical teams to turn technical requirements into operational study plans.
• Experience managing external data collection vendors, including drafting Statements of Work, auditing data deliverables, and ensuring quality criteria.
• Hands-on experience setting up prototype hardware, optical/sensor rigs, studio lighting, or camera tracking systems.
• Experience using Python, Bash, or shell scripts to verify, check, and process collected data.
• Background in human factors methods, psychophysical scaling, survey design, and qualitative debriefs.
• Experience using modern AI-assisted development tools and agentic coding workflows.
• Track record of creating clear operational processes and reference documentation.
• Clear communication skills to align priorities across various teams.
• Experience guiding study moderators and communicating respectfully with study participants.

• Lead end-to-end data collection programs for user studies.
• Collaborate with algorithm scientists and machine learning researchers to design effective study protocols.
• Oversee testing across internal prototype labs and manage external data collection vendors.
• Run human-subject studies from initial scoping through protocol design and execution.
• Ensure high-quality data collection by auditing deliverables and managing vendor relationships.
• Set up and maintain prototype hardware and testing environments.
• Utilize programming skills to process and verify collected data.
• Create and maintain operational processes and documentation for study protocols.
• Communicate effectively with research scientists, engineers, and other stakeholders.
• Guide study moderators and ensure respectful communication with participants during tests.

• Employees at Apple are often offered comprehensive benefits that support physical and mental well-being—flexible medical plans, confidential counseling, onsite wellness centers at major campuses, and resources for fitness and daily life. Families typically receive fertility support, paid parental leave with gradual return, caregiving leave, and dependent-care guidance, while financial perks commonly include stock grants (with purchase discounts), 401(k) matching, and income-protection coverage. Employees also see robust time off, Apple University learning and tuition reimbursement, donation matching and paid volunteer hours, and deep product and partner discounts.