Apple has recently decided to merge a San Diego team of 121 employees with an existing one in Austin, Texas. The move, initially anticipated to involve a shift to another San Diego campus by the end of January, has taken an unexpected turn, leaving employees with choices that could impact their future with the tech giant.
According to reports from Bloomberg, Apple is set to combine its San Diego and Austin teams, prompting a relocation offer for employees in California. Those who choose not to make the move may face the possibility of losing their positions on April 26. Apple, in response to the news, confirmed that team members would have the opportunity to continue their roles with the company in Austin. However, the unexpected nature of the relocation has left many employees surprised, as Apple initially indicated a move to another San Diego campus.
While Apple has encouraged staff to apply for other roles within the company, doubts linger among some about their qualifications for alternative positions in the city. Many employees have expressed a reluctance to uproot their lives, raising concerns that departures may be inevitable, resembling a scenario akin to layoffs. Notably, Apple has maintained a track record of avoiding significant layoffs amid industry-wide workforce reductions over the past two years.
For those opting to relocate to Austin, Apple is offering a $7,000 stipend to ease the transition. However, recognizing that not everyone may choose this path, the company is providing others with a comprehensive severance package. Departing employees will receive four weeks of severance pay, along with an additional week’s worth for each year worked, and six months of health insurance coverage. This strategy aligns with Apple’s commitment to supporting its workforce during significant transitions.
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