Senior Engineer, Manufacturing Equipment Engineering

Company Description

WD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy.

As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in.

We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide.

This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today.

We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level.

Join us and let’s shape the future of data.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• System Ownership: Serve as the technical expert for HGA (Head Gimbal Assembly) manufacturing equipment and processes, ensuring maximum machine uptime, stability, and optimal throughput to meet production targets.
• Performance Optimization: Design, develop, and implement hardware enhancements and process control strategies that align with manufacturing KPIs, focusing on precision, repeatability, and yield improvement.
• Sustainment & Maintenance: Lead the development of robust Preventative Maintenance (PM) programs and Predictive Maintenance models to forecast component failure and minimize unscheduled downtime.
• Hardware-Software Integration: Collaborate with automation and software teams to refine machine interfaces (HMI), sensor integration, and real-time monitoring tools tailored to process stability
• Technical Troubleshooting: Lead deep-dive root cause analysis for equipment malfunctions and process excursions using structured methodologies (e.g., 8D, DMAIC, or Fishbone) to implement permanent corrective actions.
• Process Engineering: Analyze physical defect data and failure modes to identify the relationship between equipment parameters (e.g., pressure, temperature, force) and product quality, mitigating recurring process issues.
• Project Leadership: Lead cross-functional equipment upgrade projects from conception through installation and qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), ensuring seamless integration into the production line
• Continuous Improvement: Develop and execute data-driven process improvements to reduce scrap, optimize cycle times, and lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) for manufacturing assets.

Qualifications

REQUIRED:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Experience: 2+ years of experience in manufacturing process engineering, equipment maintenance, or automation systems, with a proven track record of using data to drive hardware improvements.
• Technical Proficiency: * Strong knowledge of Control Systems and PLC logic (e.g., Beckhoff, Siemens, or Allen Bradley).
  - Proficiency in programming languages for data-driven engineering (Python, C++, or MATLAB/Simulink).
  - Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and failure analysis methodologies (DOE, FMEA, or Six Sigma).
  -Hands-on experience with Industrial IoT (IIoT), sensor integration, or machine-to-cloud data pipelines.
• Data Literacy: Ability to manage and query databases (SQL/NoSQL) and utilize data visualization tools (Spotfire, Tableau, or PowerBI) to monitor equipment health.

PREFERRED:

• Industry Expertise: Previous experience in high-precision electronics manufacturing, specifically the HDD/HGA industry.
• Advanced Automation: Familiarity with Robotics (ROS 2), Computer Vision for defect detection, or AI-driven predictive maintenance.
• Mindset: A proactive approach to Continuous Improvement (Kaizen) and a strong desire for self-driven learning in emerging smart-factory technologies.

SKILLS:

• Root Cause Analysis: Expertise in structured problem-solving (8D, 5-Whys) for complex electromechanical issues.
• Project Management: Ability to lead equipment lifecycle projects from procurement through to mass production.
• Interpersonal: Strong communication skills for cross-functional collaboration between production, quality, and software teams.
• Technical Documentation: Skilled in creating clear SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and technical maintenance manuals.

Additional Information

#LI-SW1

WD thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

WD is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at jobs.accommodations@wdc.com to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

Notice To Candidates: Please be aware that WD and its subsidiaries will never request payment as a condition for applying for a position or receiving an offer of employment. Should you encounter any such requests, please report it immediately to WD Ethics Helpline or email compliance@wdc.com.