Software Tools Manager - Graphics, Cartography, and AI

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.

Description

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.

Responsibilities:

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

Preferred Qualifications

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

Minimum Qualifications

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

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 $206,200 and $356,400, 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.