Manufacturing Engineer (Supply Chain)

Apptronik•Austin, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Apptronik is a human-centered robotics company developing AI-powered robots to support humanity in every facet of life. Our flagship humanoid robot, Apollo, is built to collaborate thoughtfully with people, starting with critical industries such as manufacturing and logistics, with future applications in healthcare, the home, and beyond. We operate at the cutting edge of embodied AI, applying our expertise across the full robotics stack to solve some of society's most important problems. You will join a team dedicated to bringing Apollo to market at scale, tackling the complex challenges like safety, commercialization, and mass production to change the world for the better.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience conducting supplier manufacturing process audits and capability assessments on-site at supplier facilities
Working knowledge of PPAP, APQI, FMEA (process), control plans, MSA, and SPC — not just awareness, but direct application in a manufacturing or supplier quality context
Experience leading root cause and corrective action investigations (8D methodology) with suppliers
Familiarity with quality management system standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, AS9100, or NADCAP) and how they translate to shop-floor controls
Proficiency with metrology tools and GD&T interpretation relevant to electromechanical hardware
Ability to travel up to 30% (domestic and international supplier visits)
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline (a degree is required — related STEM degrees will be considered only with directly applicable manufacturing engineering experience)
5+ years of hands-on manufacturing engineering experience in at least two of the following: wire harness fabrication and assembly, PCB fabrication and PCBA assembly (SMT, wave, selective solder, conformal coat), electric motor or actuator assembly, connector and cable assembly, or other electromechanical component manufacturing

Nice To Haves

Experience in robotics, aerospace, defense, automotive, or other high-reliability electromechanical product environments
Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, J-STD-001)
Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
Experience with MRP/ERP systems and BOM management
Background in DFM/DFA analysis for electromechanical assemblies

Responsibilities

Serve as the internal subject matter expert on manufacturing processes for wire harness assemblies, PCBAs, motor assemblies, actuators, connectors, and other electromechanical components used in humanoid robotic systems
Determine the ideal manufacturing method, process flow, and critical process parameters for new and re-sourced parts; define these requirements for suppliers
Evaluate supplier manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, and process controls through on-site assessments; identify gaps and drive corrective actions
Review and approve supplier process documentation including control plans, PFMEAs, and work instructions
Own the end-to-end NPI lifecycle at suppliers — from manufacturing feasibility review through PPAP/FAI approval and ramp to rate production
Qualify new suppliers by conducting detailed manufacturing capability assessments covering process capability (Cpk/Ppk), equipment adequacy, workforce competency, and capacity
Collaborate with design and materials engineers to ensure DFM feedback is incorporated early and manufacturing intent is clearly communicated to suppliers
Develop and execute supplier qualification plans for new parts, engineering changes, and supplier transitions
Lead root cause analysis and corrective action (8D, 5-Why, Fishbone) for supplier quality escapes; drive containment, disposition, and permanent resolution
Analyze supplier quality and delivery metrics (PPM, OTD, first-pass yield, scrap rates) to identify systemic issues and develop data-driven improvement plans
Create and disposition non-conformance reports and deviations, working with engineering counterparts on rework, repair, or use-as-is decisions
Identify and implement product and process improvements that reduce cost, mitigate supply risk, eliminate defects, and improve cycle time
Partner with the procurement team to match sourcing decisions with verified supplier manufacturing capabilities — you are the technical voice in make-vs-buy and supplier selection decisions
Function as the manufacturing engineering liaison between purchasing, design engineering, production, and the supplier base
Conduct independent research to identify potential new suppliers and emerging manufacturing capabilities relevant to robotic hardware