TE Connectivity is a global industrial technology leader creating a safer, sustainable, productive, and connected future. They are seeking a Manufacturing Process Development Engineer to drive manufacturing excellence in optical connector termination processes, tackling complex challenges and optimizing operations for high-precision fiber optic termination.
Responsibilities:
- Design and optimize end‑to‑end optical connector manufacturing processes, including fiber prep, termination, polishing, and testing
- Develop process flows, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications for single‑mode and multi‑mode optical assemblies
- Lead DFM reviews to ensure new designs meet volume, quality, yield, and cost goals
- Drive PFMEA activities to identify risks and implement preventive controls
- Create complete production documentation (process specs, control plans, WI, quality procedures)
- Prepare and qualify tools, fixtures, and equipment for precision optical termination
- Lead qualification builds and validation runs (LVM, sample runs) to confirm capability and statistical control
- Coordinate qualification documentation, reviews, and approvals
- Manage pilot runs for new products, resolving engineering issues and validating process capability
- Establish and track key manufacturing metrics (Cpk, yield, cycle time)
- Lead FACA/root‑cause investigations for manufacturing issues
- Implement continuous improvement using TEOA tools for cost, yield, and cycle‑time optimization
- Run Kaizen events to eliminate waste, improve throughput, and reduce changeovers
- Enhance equipment reliability, process durability, and spare‑parts efficiency
- Improve safety via machine guarding, control reliability, and operator protection initiatives
- Train and mentor operators and technicians in optical termination methods and quality practices
- Develop and deliver technical training on fiber handling, termination, inspection, and troubleshooting
- Implement competency assessments and certification programs
- Build mentorship programs to support skill development and knowledge transfer
- Update routing, cycle times, and parameters after process changes
- Optimize material flow, workspace layout, and personnel movement to reduce waste
- Support CapEx/OpEx decisions through cost, capability, and vendor analysis
- Integrate test systems, automation equipment, and MES for smooth production operations
- Develop technology roadmaps for next‑generation optical connector manufacturing
- Innovate new processes for advanced connectors (expanded beam, ganged ferrules, high‑density systems)
- Define automation strategies including robotic handling, automated polishing, and AI‑based inspection
- Drive Industry 4.0 initiatives using IoT, predictive maintenance, and manufacturing analytics
Requirements:
- BS in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field
- 2–5 years in manufacturing process development, ideally in precision assembly, fiber optics, or electronics
- Hands‑on experience with optical connector termination, fiber handling, precision processes, and SPC
- Strong foundation in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement
- Proficiency in fiber cleaving, polishing, inspection, and optical testing with tight tolerance control
- Experience with precision equipment, automated assembly, process validation, and equipment qualification
- Skilled with PFMEA, SPC, control plans, MSA, and quality assurance tools
- Able to create clear process specs, work instructions, training content, and qualification protocols
- Experience with statistical tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and capability analysis
- Expertise in single‑mode/multi‑mode handling, end‑face prep, polishing, and testing
- Strong understanding of high‑precision mechanical assembly, alignment, and dimensional control
- Experience with tech transfers, supplier qualification, and contract manufacturing
- Familiarity with robotics, vision systems, automated test, and process control systems
- Green Belt or higher; experienced in Kaizen and waste‑reduction methods
- Proven ability in SPC implementation, MSA, and capability studies
- Strong analytical and root‑cause‑analysis abilities
- Skilled in managing cross‑functional projects and meeting aggressive deadlines
- Able to present technical concepts clearly across all organizational levels
- Experience leading FACA efforts, improvement initiatives, and mentoring technical staff
- MS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or related field
- Background in telecom, data center, automotive, or aerospace precision manufacturing
- Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean certification, PE license, or CMfgE
- Experience with simulation tools, CAD, MES, and ERP systems
- Familiarity with ISO 9001, TS 16949, and optical standards (IEC, TIA/EIA)