Principal Engineer, Supplier Quality Engineering(Connector)

Job Description

Own all aspects of supplier quality and reliability for electrical connectors, encompassing stamping, etching, plating, molding, assembly, test and packaging.  Work with electrical connector suppliers, along with hardware, firmware, product quality, customer support and reliability engineering teams to ensure electrical and mechanical connector performance in WD products.  Understand worldwide industry connector standards, WD unique requirements and supplier processes to identify and control KPIV parameters to achieve KPOVs critical for WD product function.  Review connector supplier DOEs and reliability data to ensure adequate quality controls.  Audit connector supplier processes.  Contribute to WD product failure analysis; when necessary, drive connector supplier resolution of device failures via the 8D method.  Coordinate with Program Management, Design Engineering, Procurement and Factory for successful program execution with multiple suppliers, making recommendations on supplier selection.  Conduct connector supplier quality system and process assessments and score for periodic business reviews.  Review connector supplier change notices and plan the appropriate level of qualification activities.

Duties &Responsibilities: 

• Management of WD electrical connector suppliers: initiating and coordinating meetings regarding technology reviews/roadmaps and issues between Procurement, Design Engineering and suppliers.
• Qualify connectors for use in WD products, conforming to all requirements.
• Monitor Critical to Function parameters via SPC.
• Confirm supplier’s reliability demonstration testing of connectors.
• Ensure connector supplier processes are understood via Fishbone diagrams to identify KPIVs and KPOVs; examine critical sensitivities via DOEs.
• Induce connector supplier activities to strengthen quality systems with FMEA and Error Proofing tools.
• Participate in WD product FAs to determine connector contribution.
• Drive supplier FA of connector failures, utilizing 8D method to determine the root cause hypothesis, validate failure hypothesis, identify escape cause, and implement corrective actions, as well as preventative actions.
• Coordinate MRB for disposition of nonconforming connector materials.
• Track connector supplier continuous improvement activities to eliminate common failure modes.
• Research new connector suppliers and technology roadmaps to assist selection of future connectors.
• Review connector supplier change notices and work cross-functionally to disposition.

Qualifications

Education/Knowledge: Bachelor’s degree or above in related field e.g. Engineering, mechanical, electrical, material science, physics or equivalent to it.

Experience: 3 to 7 years of working experience with electrical connector , Hands-on experience in connector processes, test, and quality.  Experience in a variety of mechanical fabrication processes such as casting, machining, and coating is an added advantage.

Requirement Skills:

• Component Validation - Deep knowledge of mechanical and electrical testing, measurement, and inspection methods to evaluate performance, quality, and reliability.
• Supplier Process Audit Skills – Critical ability to inspect and identify strengths / weaknesses of supplier production and test processes.
• Quality System Audit Skills - Familiar with ISO/Industry requirements for commercial and automotive fields.
• Problem Solving – Investigate complex problems, gather relevant data, define appropriate analysis to identify root cause, followed by solution options for evaluation and implementation.
• Analytical Thinking – Analyzing information statistically and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
• Industry Standards – Strong familiarity with mechanical and electrical device standards: SFF, Serial-ATA, SNIA U.2, E1.L, E1.S, USB, JEDEC, IPC, IEC, MIL, AEC-Q, ASME
• Quality methodologies - Experience with ISO9001, IATF16949, APQP, FMEA, VDA6.0, MSA, SPC, DOE
• General mechanical engineering skill – Understand mechanical drawings and ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
• Behavior – Self-motivated with ability to effectively multi-task and work independently.

Because Western Digital thrives on the power of diversity and is committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect, and contribution, we are committed to giving every qualified applicant and employee an equal opportunity.  Western Digital does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their protected class status and complies with all federal and state laws against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, as well as the laws and regulations set forth in the "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law" poster.

Part of creating a diverse and inclusive workplace includes ensuring that all qualified applicants and employees are provided equal consideration for any available opportunity. Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with a disability. If you need a reasonable accommodation, email us at [email protected].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.