PCBA Reliability Engineer
About The Position
Waymo is seeking a PCBA Reliability Engineer to serve as the primary subject matter expert on PCB and PCBA quality and reliability across its Compute and Sensor modules. The role works with external laboratories and suppliers to secure testing and validation resources, leads test vehicle layout and design for semi-custom components, and develops test plans for execution internally or by third-party labs. The engineer oversees manufacturing quality issues at PCB and PCBA suppliers, leads corrective and preventive action initiatives, investigates failures found during reliability testing, and evaluates DFMEAs to identify high-risk elements and mitigation strategies. The position also supports systemic improvements to internal and external quality and reliability management systems. The role requires 10% travel as needed.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience.
- Strong foundation in reliability systems, including system reliability concepts, failure distributions, and accelerated life modeling.
- In-depth expertise in failure mechanisms associated with electronic packaging, components, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and PCB assemblies (PCBAs).
- Hands-on SMT and PCB manufacturing process expertise, quality control systems, and failure analysis methods such as cross-sectioning, dye and pull.
- Proficiency with industry IPC standards governing PCBs, PCBAs, and electronic components.
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics and PCB layout files.
- Working knowledge of silicon-level failure mechanisms, thermal and cooling solutions, and finite element modeling.
- Ability to collaborate effectively across functions.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with APQP/PPAP processes, ideally within the automotive sector.
- Proficiency in PCB layout and test fixture design.
- Strong electrical debugging skills and a thorough understanding of electrical schematics.
Responsibilities
- Act as the primary subject matter expert on PCB and PCBA quality and reliability across Waymo Compute and Sensor modules.
- Collaborate with external laboratories and suppliers to secure test chamber and validation resources.
- Lead test vehicle layout and design for Waymo semi-custom components; establish comprehensive test plans and secure internal or third-party lab resources for execution.
- Oversee manufacturing quality issues across PCB and PCBA suppliers, leading corrective and preventive action (CAPA) initiatives.
- Perform root cause investigations and execute corrective and preventive actions for failures identified during reliability testing of custom components or PCBAs.
- Evaluate DFMEAs to identify high-risk elements and define risk mitigation strategies through early design modifications or targeted follow-on testing.
- Lead and support systemic process enhancements across internal and external quality and reliability management systems.
Benefits
- Discretionary annual bonus program, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Equity incentive plan, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Company benefits program, described as generous and subject to eligibility requirements.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
