Software Tools Manager - Graphics, Cartography, and AI

In this technical managerial role, you'll act as the critical bridge between innovation and application, leading a team which transforms powerful rendering engine features into intuitive, accessible tools which unlock new creative possibilities. Your work will directly impact how millions of users experience maps. You will leverage your management and technical skills to shape the future of creative workflows while pushing the boundaries of what's possible with real-time rendering technology.

Manage and mentor a team of rendering tools engineers, driving technical direction for the tools, setting clear goals, providing regular feedback, and supporting career development
Define and execute the roadmap for rendering tools serving cartographers, design teams, production staff, and marketing stakeholders
Champion AI to enhance product development and workflows
Partner closely with the Rendering Engine team to prototype and validate new rendering capabilities, exposing engine features through intuitive tools interfaces
Maintain strong relationships with user communities, conducting regular research to understand pain points, gather feature requests, and prioritize improvements
Translate diverse user needs into actionable technical requirements and feature specifications
Act as the primary liaison between tools users and core rendering technology teams, coordinating with product management, design, and engineering leadership
Balance competing priorities across different stakeholder groups while allocating resources effectively
Champion tools adoption through training, support, and user advocacy
Foster a collaborative, user-centered culture that prioritizes both technical excellence and creative empowerment
Drive continuous improvement of tools based on user feedback and evolving workflows

7+ years of experience in graphics/rendering tools development
3+ years managing technical teams of 3-7 engineers
Deep understanding of rendering pipelines and real-time graphics
Proven track record of shipping production tools for creative workflows
Strong technical background in C++, Python, or similar languages
Excellent communication skills with both technical and creative audiences
Demonstrated ability to balance technical excellence with user needs

Experience with game engines (e.g. Unity, Unreal etc.), DCC tools, or map rendering systems
Background in cartography, geospatial visualization, AI, or related field.
Familiarity with modern rendering techniques (PBR, ray tracing, etc.)
Experience prototyping with rendering APIs (Metal, Vulkan, DirectX)
Track record of building high-performing engineering teams

The Maps Organization is looking for a manager to lead a team of passionate and diverse software engineers in developing and evolving rendering tools which empower cartographers, designers, production teams, and marketing stakeholders. This role sits at the exciting intersection of cutting-edge graphics and creativity—where AI and advanced rendering capabilities meet the hands of cartographers and designers to enable the creation of exceptional visual experiences across Maps and other Apple ecosystems.

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 $198,300 and $342,800, 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 seek to promote 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

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

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Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.