Principal Product Engineer

Introduction: We are seeking a exceptionally skilled and motivated Principal Product Engineer to join our operations team in the photonics industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in advanced technology product development, product lifecycle management, process engineering, and multi-site manufacturing operations. This position offers an extraordinary opportunity to work with a dynamic global team at the forefront of innovation in photonics solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead product design and manufacturing process optimization efforts for the product portfolio, including acousto-optic (AO) and electro-optic (EO) devices, RF electronic modules, and optical components.
• Formulate and execute projects to improve product performance, quality, and market readiness, including design for (DFx) manufacturability, low cost, high reliability, export, and sustainability.
• Evaluate low-cost relocation opportunities and develop production strategies to enable globally competitive high-volume manufacturing; focus on maximizing gross margin and aligning business and technology goals.
• Analyze and resolve challenges in the manufacturing centers following lean principles and 8D problem solving methodology.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks and opportunities throughout the product lifecycle; take ownership of driving key actions and objectives to successful completion.
• Develop project requirements, negotiate with stakeholders, and construct right-sized projects plans; monitor program execution and adjust plans to overcome tactical setbacks.
• Analyze production workflows to ensure there is sufficient process control (e.g., well-defined requirements, KPIs, compliance) and documentation (e.g., work instructions, travelers, test reports).
• Work closely with product management, operations, process engineering, R&D, supply chain, and quality teams to ensure alignment of designs and processes with product roadmaps and corporate standards.
• Analyze and improve supply chain structures and methods to ensure the timely availability of materials and components required for production and drop ship scenarios.
• Adhere to disciplined change control practices and maintain detailed documentation of improvements, manufacturing protocols, and operational procedures to ensure consistency and traceability.

• Bachelor s degree in photonics, physics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in product engineering, preferably in the photonics, optics, or semiconductor manufacturing industries.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing systems, lean principles, and continuous improvement techniques (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen).
• Experience in successfully relocating complex manufacturing processes across sites, teams, and international borders.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and exquisite attention to detail.
• Excellent English language communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong organizational savvy and interpersonal functionality.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficiency in manufacturing process design, simulation software, and production data analysis tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Minitab, Six Sigma tools).
• Expertise with photonics or optics-related equipment, materials, and end-product technologies.
• Knowledge of industry standards (ISO, ANSI, and safety regulations) and environmental considerations.
• Advanced degree in photonics, physics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience with automated assembly systems and robotic process automation.