TE Connectivity is hiring a Manufacturing & Process Development Engineer II to drive manufacturing excellence within our Passive Optics organization. You will tackle complex challenges in high-precision fiber optic termination, optimizing internal operations and external contract manufacturing partnerships through advanced production technologies and lean principles.
What You'll Do
- 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, work instructions, quality procedures).
- Prepare and qualify tools, fixtures, and equipment for precision optical termination.
- Lead qualification builds and validation 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.
What We're Looking For
- BS in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or a 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.
Nice to Have
- MS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or a 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).
Technical Stack
- Analytics: Minitab, JMP
- Design & Systems: CAD, MES, ERP systems
- Automation: robotics, vision systems, automated test systems, process control systems
- Emerging Tech: IoT, AI-based inspection
Team & Environment
You will be part of the Passive Optics organization within the Digital Data Networks (DDN) Business Unit.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation: $82,000 – $123,000
- Health insurance
- 401(k)
- Disability insurance
- Life insurance
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Paid time off
- Voluntary benefits
TE Connectivity is an EOE, including Disability/Vets.
