Lube Process Engineer

Western Digital • San Jose, CA

374d

About The Position

The position involves collaborating with vendors to develop next-generation solvents as carrier fluids for lubricants, addressing potential issues during solvent ramp-up in manufacturing sites. The role includes developing advanced lubricant dipping processes to achieve optimal lubricant performance on disks for next-generation ePMR and HAMR products. The candidate will utilize Design of Experiment (DOE) principles and statistical analysis tools (JMP or Minitab) extensively to develop new processes and innovative concepts. The position requires effective collaboration with teams across Hardware, Software, Manufacturing, and Failure analysis to bring improvement ideas to reality. The candidate will lead the process of conceptualization, design, documentation, and testing/validation of new processes, and foster close collaboration with vendors to identify and implement best-in-class consumables for advanced lubricant application processes. Additionally, the role involves developing and selecting optimal metrology and/or in-situ equipment for lubricant film characterization and providing technical guidance and training to pilot line operational technicians.

Requirements

• MS +3 years experience, or PhD in Chemical Engineering, chemistry, Polymer Science & Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in process engineering, preferably in a development role.
• Proficiency in JMP, Minitab, and a strong understanding of DOE principles.
• Hands-on experience designing for high-volume production environments, ideally within the semiconductor or disk drive industry.
• Action-oriented with a proven track record of hands-on experience in lab or field.
• Excellent multi-tasking and time management skills.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with external vendors and cross-functional teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a Class 100 or Class 1000 cleanroom.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with vendors to develop next-generation solvents as carrier fluids for lubricants.
• Address potential issues during solvent ramp-up in manufacturing sites.
• Develop advanced lubricant dipping processes for optimal lubricant performance.
• Utilize DOE principles and statistical analysis tools to develop new processes and recipes.
• Work effectively with teams across Hardware, Software, Manufacturing, and Failure analysis.
• Lead the process of conceptualization, design, documentation, and testing/validation of new processes.
• Foster collaboration with vendors to implement best-in-class consumables.
• Develop and select optimal metrology and/or in-situ equipment for lubricant film characterization.
• Provide technical guidance and training to pilot line operational technicians.

Benefits

• Paid vacation time
• Paid sick leave
• Medical/dental/vision insurance
• Life, accident and disability insurance
• Tax-advantaged flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Employee assistance program
• Voluntary benefit programs such as supplemental life and AD&D, legal plan, pet insurance, critical illness, accident and hospital indemnity
• Tuition reimbursement
• Transit benefits
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Western Digital Savings 401(k) Plan

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees