Senior Principal Diagnostics Engineering Manager

Role Overview

• Lead the strategy, development, launch, and continuous improvement of manufacturing diagnostics and end-of-line (EOL) testing capabilities for next-generation Ford vehicles.
• Drive the operational readiness of all EOL test tools across our Africa and Asia Pacific assembly plants.
• Collaborate with and influence US-based engineering teams to ensure global feature development aligns with regional requirements and plant constraints.
• Secure high-quality vehicle validation and manufacturing performance.
• Report directly to the Manufacturing Technology Development Manager in the US and manage the position based at our IMG Product Development Centre in Broadmeadows, Melbourne, following a hybrid work arrangement needing four days on-site.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 15+ years in automotive diagnostics, manufacturing test, end-of-line testing, or related vehicle validation environments.
• Proven leadership in defining and implementing complex diagnostic or manufacturing test solutions in high-volume automotive production settings.
• Deep understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, vehicle electrical systems, and end-of-line validation requirements.
• Strong experience with diagnostic tools, flashing processes, test equipment, and fault isolation methods used in vehicle assembly and final verification.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional collaboration across manufacturing, quality, service, product development, and program management teams.
• Proven expertise in root cause analysis, issue resolution, and structured problem solving in plant or launch environments.
• Experience supporting new vehicle launches, plant implementation, and production ramp activities.
• Experience working across global or regional manufacturing organizations, with the ability to balance central standards with local operational requirements.
• Strong knowledge of diagnostic performance metrics and manufacturing KPIs, with the ability to drive measurable improvements in test effectiveness, quality, and throughput.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence decisions across technical and operational teams.

Tech Stack

• Assembly

Benefits

• Discounted lease car options.
• Multiple Employee Resource Groups – Ford Pride, Women of Ford and Ford Empowering Diverse Abilities.
• Flexible Work Arrangements.
• Growth and development opportunities via internal and external training.
• Paid parental leave from day 1.
• Comprehensive Employee Assist Program.
• Wellness Programs including Free Flu Vaccinations and Health Checks.
• Paid volunteer days.