The OpportunityThe
Staff NPI Engineer plays a pivotal strategic and technical leadership role in scaling our proprietary capital equipment platform. Responsible for architecting the transition of complex, multi-disciplinary production machinery from R&D into full-scale manufacturing, you will drive operational readiness at the nexus of design, operations, supply chain, and quality. You will lead cross-functional launch strategies, establish manufacturing methodologies, mentor junior engineers, and ensure seamless New Product Introductions (NPI) aligned with key business milestones.
Roles & ResponsibilitiesStrategic Design for Excellence (DfX) & Architecture- Lead early-stage design architecture reviews, driving comprehensive DFM, DFA, DFR, DFT, and DFS strategies to eliminate manufacturing, quality, and supply chain risks prior to pilot launch.
- Partner with R&D leadership and chief scientists to translate high-level system performance criteria into scalable, manufacturable equipment designs.
- Oversee the lifecycle management of critical engineering deliverables, driving rigorous standards for BOM structure, CAD data integrity, and engineering change control (ECOs) across PLM systems.
Process Architecture & Test Infrastructure- Drive the strategic development, qualification, and deployment of advanced manufacturing, assembly, and testing processes across internal lines and contract manufacturing (CM) partners.
- Architect next-generation test stands, custom tooling, and automated fixtures required for precision equipment assembly and functional verification.
- Author core manufacturing operational frameworks, technical documentation standards, and qualification protocols for production scaling.
- Align and direct Tier-1 contract manufacturers and supply chain partners to establish world-class build and test capabilities for high-complexity systems.
NPI Program Execution & Pilot Manufacturing- Drive prototype builds and pilot manufacturing programs, taking full ownership of NPI roadmaps, critical path schedules, resource allocation, and design transfer deliverables.
- Establish and execute robust process validation frameworks (IQ/OQ/PQ), defining line-yield, cycle-time, and capacity targets.
- Champion PLM and QMS platform strategies (e.g., Arena) to streamline workflows, enforce regulatory compliance, and optimize design-to-factory execution.
Technical Problem-Solving & Continuous Improvement- Lead cross-functional task forces in solving high-impact, systemic technical issues using advanced root cause analysis frameworks (e.g., 8D, DMAIC, Fishbone).
- Champion continuous improvement strategies (Lean/Six Sigma) across the equipment lifecycle to maximize yield, compress build cycles, and optimize total cost of goods sold (COGS).
- Mentor mid-level and junior engineers, cultivating high technical standards and best-in-class NPI practices across the organization.
RequirementsBasic Qualifications- Education: B.S. in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related engineering discipline (M.S. or Ph.D. strongly preferred).
- Experience:10+ years of hands-on, progressive NPI and manufacturing engineering experience within capital equipment, semiconductor equipment (WFE), optical systems, or high-complexity medical device manufacturing.
- Technical & Strategic Leadership:
- Demonstrated track record leading full-lifecycle NPI launches for multi-disciplinary electro-mechanical systems from concept through volume production.
- Expert-level troubleshooting capabilities across complex hardware, optics, robotics, pneumatics, and embedded control systems.
- Mastery of formal root-cause methodologies (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone, FMEA) and DOE (Design of Experiments).
- Deep experience driving PLM/QMS/ERP architecture and design control workflows.
- Executive Presence & Collaboration: Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives, influence executive stakeholders, drive supplier alignment, and translate technical complexity into actionable business decisions.
Preferred Qualifications- Tools & Software Mastery: Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks CAD, NetSuite ERP/MRP, and Arena PLM/QMS.
- Process Expertise: Deep knowledge of precision machining, opto-mechanical alignment, complex harness integration, vacuum system assembly, and automated test environments.
- Certifications: PMP, PE, Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt.
Benefits- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
- Bonus Plan eligible
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Free Food & Snacks
- Stock Option Plan
- Short Term & Long Term Disability
- Base salary range $175K - $190K
Additional Information
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all team members feel valued and supported. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities in STEM. If you meet most of the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply.
