Senior Manufacturing Engineer – NPI (Staff Level)

About the role

Waabi is seeking a senior‑level Manufacturing Engineer to lead New Product Introduction (NPI) activities at contract manufacturers. You will own the APQP program, ensure flawless start‑of‑production, and drive the integration of sensors, compute and actuation systems into high‑volume lines.

Key responsibilities

• Manage APQP and PPAP deliverables, guaranteeing a smooth SOP transition.
• Provide Design‑for‑Manufacturing and Design‑for‑Assembly feedback during APQP Phase 2.
• Validate component‑level PPAPs from sub‑tier vendors and integrate them into the assembly process.
• Define special characteristics, develop PFMEAs, process flow diagrams, control plans and work instructions, and implement poka‑yoke solutions.
• Design, qualify and maintain manufacturing equipment, tooling, gauges and measurement systems (MSA, Gage R&R).
• Lead Process Verification testing, Run‑at‑Rate studies and root‑cause corrective actions using 8D methodology.
• Collaborate with field quality teams to update control plans based on real‑world performance.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience launching automotive or high‑tech hardware at Tier 1 or contract manufacturers.
• Hands‑on ownership of the transition from prototype to production‑validated line.
• Strong background in APQP, PPAP, control plans, process flows and Cpk stability.
• Expertise in GD&T, metrology and measurement system analysis.

Required skills

• APQP and PPAP management
• PFMEA, control plan and process flow development
• GD&T, MSA and Gage R&R
• SolidWorks for fixture and jig review
• CMM, OMM or vision‑based inspection systems
• 8D and RCCA problem‑solving methodology
• PLM tools, ECO and BOM management
• Precision torque, TIM dispensing and sensor calibration techniques