Principal Manufacturing Process Engineer

Our client, a world-renowned leader in advanced electronics manufacturing located in San Francisco, California, US , is seeking an exceptional Principal Manufacturing Process Engineer. This senior-level position is responsible for driving innovation, optimizing production processes, and ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency in a high-volume, technologically advanced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in process development, statistical process control (SPC), and lean manufacturing methodologies.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design, development, validation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes for complex electronic components and assemblies. Utilize advanced statistical methods (SPC, DOE) to monitor process capability, identify root causes of variation, and implement corrective actions. Develop and implement lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping) to reduce waste, improve throughput, and enhance operational efficiency. Oversee the selection, qualification, and integration of new manufacturing equipment and technologies. Create and maintain detailed process documentation, including work instructions, SOPs, and manufacturing specifications. Collaborate closely with R&D, engineering, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure successful product realization and scale-up from prototype to mass production. Troubleshoot and resolve complex manufacturing issues, ensuring minimal disruption to production schedules. Conduct process capability studies and design experiments (DOE) to optimize process parameters and improve product yield and reliability. Champion a culture of safety and ensure all manufacturing processes comply with safety regulations and company policies. Train and mentor junior engineers and technicians on manufacturing processes, best practices, and problem-solving techniques. Analyze production data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement, presenting findings and recommendations to senior management. Stay current with emerging manufacturing technologies and industry trends, evaluating their potential application to enhance company operations.

Qualifications:

Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing process engineering, with a significant focus on complex electronics or semiconductor manufacturing. Demonstrated expertise in process design, optimization, and validation. Deep understanding and practical application of Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), and other quality tools. Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies. Experience with cleanroom manufacturing environments and associated protocols is highly preferred. Proficiency in CAD software and simulation tools relevant to manufacturing processes. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple departments. Experience with automation and robotics in manufacturing settings. Familiarity with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) is a plus. This is a strategic role offering the opportunity to significantly influence the manufacturing capabilities of a leading technology company. Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a stimulating work environment with ample opportunities for career advancement.