Principal Process Engineer (AME)

Job Summary:

As a Principal Process Engineer, within the Malaysia AME (Advanced Manufacturing Engineering) team and reporting to the global Sr Director based in Fremont, you will own the transfer, scale-up, qualification, and continuous improvement of key manufacturing processes. You will serve as a technical leader on the factory floor, working closely with Manufacturing, Equipment, Quality, and global engineering teams in Korea and the USA to ensure stable, scalable, and cost-effective production. This role requires strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, deep understanding of process control, and proven experience in high-volume manufacturing ramps.

Responsibilities:

Process Development & Scale-up:

• Lead process transfers from development to mass production at the Penang site.
• Drive production ramp readiness includes qualification builds, yield stabilization, and process window validation.
• Define and implement SPC strategy, CPK targets, and process monitoring systems to ensure stable operations.
• Develop SOPs, control plans, and engineering documentation to support sustained manufacturing.

Equipment Qualification & Scale-Up:

• Support tool design, installation, FAT/SAT, buy-off, and line commissioning activities.
• Partner with global AME and equipment vendors to ensure mechanical robustness and process capability.
• Identify gaps in equipment performance and drive corrective actions to meet production targets.

Yield, Quality & Continuous Improvement:

• Lead structured root-cause investigations (8D, DMAIC, DOE) for yield excursions and process variation.
• Drive yield improvement, scrap reduction, cycle time optimization, and cost-down initiatives.
• Develop risk assessments and mitigation plans for high-impact process issues.

Cross-Site Collaboration:

• Provide direct, data-driven communication across Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering.
• Communicate clearly and directly across cultures and time zones to drive timely project execution.

Qualifications:

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of:
  • Mechanical systems and material behavior
  • Process control (SPC, CPK, DOE, variability reduction)
  • Root-cause analysis and failure investigation
  • Production ramp and equipment qualification
• Experience supporting NPI to mass production transition.
• Clear communication skills and strong cross-functional collaboration ability.
• Strong communication skills (verbal, written, and presentation) in English.

Preferred

• Experience in battery manufacturing, roll-to-roll processes, or precision continuous manufacturing.
• Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or above).
• Experience working in multinational manufacturing environments.