I guess it depends what kind of development you're doing. If you need to use XCode and/or test on Safari then OSX is required. You can also reliably run Windows and Linux VMs on Apple hardware, but not vice-versa.
Also, Macbook Pros are incredibly well built hardware, compared to the typical Thinkpad.
I'd recommend that the OP try using a Macbook Pro if he/she hasn't used them before. You might be pleasantly surprised. I think it might be better to be a little bit open-minded when considering a job, rather than rejecting them if they don't let you use linux. Ask them what their reasons are for using Apple hardware.
Also, Macbook Pros are incredibly well built hardware, compared to the typical Thinkpad.
I'd recommend that the OP try using a Macbook Pro if he/she hasn't used them before. You might be pleasantly surprised. I think it might be better to be a little bit open-minded when considering a job, rather than rejecting them if they don't let you use linux. Ask them what their reasons are for using Apple hardware.