We are seeking an experienced Electronics Manufacturing Engineering Manager to drive the development, optimization, and sustainment of advanced manufacturing processes for electronic assemblies. This leadership role requires deep expertise in SMT production, PCB assembly technologies, and capital equipment strategy. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a proven ability to build and mentor high-performing technical teams, collaborate cross-functionally, and deliver manufacturing excellence in a Tier 1 automotive environment.
Responsibilities:
Process Development & Optimization
- Design and refine SMT and PCB assembly processes for a mix of high-volume and low-volume, high-reliability applications.
- Lead DFM/DFA initiatives in partnership with product design and engineering teams.
- Develop and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, control plans, and PFMEAs.
- Develop and drive a standard approach to equipment design and development that supports and balances internal and customer objectives.
Equipment & Technology Leadership
- Specify, source, and validate capital equipment (SMT lines, reflow ovens, AOI, ICT, conformal coating systems).
- Oversee vendor selection, installation planning, and equipment commissioning.
- Serve as the technical authority on SMT line configuration, reflow profiling, stencil design, and inspection technologies.
- Lead troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions for equipment and process issues.
- Lead troubleshooting and implementation of end-of-line testing to ensure product integrity and compliance.
- Evaluate ROI of new equipment and process investments to support strategic decision-making.
Team Leadership & Development
- Build and mentor high-performing engineering and technician teams.
- Foster a culture of innovation, ownership, and continuous improvement.
- Develop technical training programs and succession planning strategies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Align manufacturing capabilities with product design and customer requirements.
- Support new product introductions with process feasibility and technical insights.
- Lead technical engagements during customer audits, product launches, and reviews.
- Work with material planning to find and optimize product production for every line.
Customer & Supplier Engagement
- Travel to customer and supplier sites for equipment commissioning, process validation, and technical collaboration.
- Represent Company in technical discussions and continuous improvement initiatives.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with IPC-A-610, IATF 16949, and other relevant standards.
- Support PPAP, APQP, and customer-specific quality requirements.
- Partner with quality teams to reduce defects and improve first-pass yield.
Product Strategy
- Act as a bridge between product development and operations to ensure the electronics product strategy aligns with manufacturing capabilities and equipment investments.
- Lead the New Product Introduction (NPI) process, ensuring seamless integration of new designs into production with optimized processes and timelines.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Manufacturing Engineering (Master’s preferred).
- 7+ years of experience in electronics manufacturing engineering, with a focus on SMT and PCB assembly.
- Expert-level knowledge of SMT equipment and PCB technologies.
- Demonstrated success in leading and developing technical teams.
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, especially with engineering and sales.
- Experience in capital equipment procurement and specification.
- Background in Tier 1 automotive manufacturing.
- Willingness to travel to customer and supplier locations.
- Proficiency in CAD, statistical analysis tools, and ERP/MES systems.
- Knowledge in ICT/functional test integration and troubleshooting.
- Experience with AOI programming and inspection optimization.
- Familiarity with wave and selective soldering methods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certifications in IPC-A-610, Six Sigma, or Lean Manufacturing.
- Experience with Industry 4.0 and smart factory technologies.
- Familiarity with sustainable and energy-efficient manufacturing practices.
Core Competencies
- Technical Expertise
- Equipment Strategy & Optimization
- Capital Equipment Procurement
- Process Engineering
- Team Leadership & Development
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Customer & Supplier Engagement
- Tier 1 Automotive Standards
- Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis
- Quality Assurance
- Continuous Improvement
- Documentation & Compliance