Principal Advanced Manufacturing Engineer

East Penn Manufacturing Company • Ann Arbor, MI

9d

About The Position

The Principal Advance Manufacturing Engineer is a key technical leader responsible for defining and executing the manufacturing strategy for lithium-ion cell production. This role drives innovation, process development, equipment selection, and scalability for high-performance, cost-effective, and reliable cell manufacturing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical Engineering or related field (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred).
• 15+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, including at least 5 years in lithium-ion cell production.
• Must be comfortable supporting US-military funded work and building products for military testing and use
• Demonstrated expertise in at least two core Li-ion cell processes (e.g., notching/e-cut electrode, stacking/winding, tab weld, electrolyte fill,).
• Strong understanding of process control, Six Sigma, and statistical analysis.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), data analysis (Minitab, JMP), and manufacturing documentation (PFMEA, Control Plans, etc.).
• Knowledge of equipment automation, PLCs, robotics, and integration with MES systems.
• Hands-on experience in cleanroom environments and dry room operations.
• Excellent communication, project leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Up to 25% travel including supplier visits, equipment FATs, and production support at global sites.
• ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) the individual must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

• Working knowledge of safety standards including NFPA 855, NEC, and ISO cleanroom classifications preferred.
• Familiarity with AI-driven process monitoring and digital twin technologies preferred.
• Experience in equipment procurement, vendor negotiations, and cost estimation preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and industrialization of advanced manufacturing processes for lithium-ion cell components including electrode production, cell assembly, and electrolyte fill.
• Define equipment specifications and drive supplier selection, design approval, FAT/SAT activities, and commissioning of manufacturing systems.
• Partner with R&D, Process Engineering, and Operations to translate cell design requirements into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Lead DOE and process validation efforts to achieve PPAP readiness and compliance with quality standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949, MIL-PRF requirements, etc.).
• Develop and maintain DFM, PFMEAs, control plans, work instructions, and process flow diagrams for new processes.
• Drive factory readiness including utility planning, floor layouts, cleanroom integration, and line balancing.
• Serve as the SME for troubleshooting complex cell process issues, identifying root causes, and implementing robust corrective actions.
• Lead cost, yield, and throughput improvement initiatives across new and existing lines.
• Mentor junior AME engineers and process development teams to ensure strong technical growth.
• Interface with MES, Controls, and Facilities teams to ensure full equipment integration (traceability, alarms, OEE, safety systems).
• Author technical reports, investment justifications, and participate in design reviews and gate meetings.
• Follow Company Policies and Procedures
• Physical presence on the job is essential and necessary
• Other duties as assigned by management

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Group health insurance that includes high quality medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage with a low employee premium
• Retirement Savings Plan with company match and a 3% employer contribution
• Paid company holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Employee assistance program
• Fitness Discounts
• Promotional opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees