Principal Manufacturing and Assembly Engineer - Chatsworth, CA

Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Principal Manufacturing and Assembly Engineer to lead and optimize our end-to-end manufacturing and assembly operations. This role will focus on the development, improvement, and scaling of complex mechanical and/or electromechanical assembly processes, ensuring product quality, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will act as a technical expert, project leader, and mentor within the engineering team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Process Development:
  Design, develop, and implement robust manufacturing and assembly processes for new and existing products, ensuring scalability, reliability, and cost efficiency.
• Assembly Optimization:
  Lead optimization of manual, semi-automated, and automated assembly operations, focusing on takt time reduction, error-proofing (poka-yoke), and ergonomic improvements.
• New Product Introduction (NPI):
  Collaborate with R&D, Product Engineering, and Operations teams to ensure manufacturability and smooth design transfer of new products into production.
• Continuous Improvement:
  Drive lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis initiatives to improve assembly yield, reduce defects, and lower manufacturing costs.
• Validation and Compliance:
  Lead equipment and process validation activities and ensure all processes meet relevant regulatory and industry standards (e.g., ISO, AS9100 etc.).
• Tooling and Fixtures:
  Specify, design, and oversee the procurement of assembly tools, fixtures, and test systems to support efficient and repeatable operations.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  Interface with Quality, Supply Chain, Production, and external suppliers to resolve issues and ensure alignment across the product lifecycle.
• Documentation:
  Create and maintain comprehensive manufacturing documentation, including work instructions, PFMEAs, process flow diagrams, and control plans.
• Mentorship & Leadership:
  Serve as a mentor to junior engineers and technicians. Lead cross-functional projects and support strategic initiatives across multiple departments.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in manufacturing and assembly engineering roles, with at least 2-3 years in a senior or principal-level capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and optimizing complex mechanical or electromechanical assembly processes.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma tools, and process validation methodologies.
• Proficiency with CAD, SOLIDWORKS, ERP, and MRP (Mapics preferred) systems.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams and managing large-scale manufacturing projects.

Preferred:

• Master's degree or advanced certifications (e.g., Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP, Lean Expert).
• Experience with automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Prior experience in highly regulated industries such as medical, aerospace, or automotive.

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance