Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Monarch Quantum•San Diego, CA

About The Position

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Principal Manufacturing Engineer. You will be responsible for leading the development, optimization, and support of complex manufacturing processes for high-reliability electronic assemblies, including multi-chip modules (MCMs), circuit card assemblies (CCAs), RF/microwave components, and integrated systems used in military, aerospace, and commercial applications. This role provides hands-on technical expertise in assembly, process development, equipment implementation, and new product introduction while serving as a key liaison between engineering, production, quality, and external suppliers.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
A minimum of 10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering for hybrid microwave, RF, laser, and mixed-technology electronic assemblies.
Expert-level hands-on proficiency in die attach, soldering, wire/ribbon bonding, thick/thin-film processing, and precision welding techniques.
Demonstrated success leading process development, NPI programs, and production optimization initiatives.
Strong background in supplier qualification, outsourcing transitions, and contract manufacturer oversight.
Experience supporting MIL-PRF-38534 programs, HALT/HASS, and high-reliability screening.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.
Disciplined problem-solver who enjoys building systems where they don't yet exist and thrives under the pressure of production deadlines.

Responsibilities

Provide expert-level support for the assembly, test, troubleshooting, and integration of advanced electronic and electro-optical systems, including mid-IR laser system components.
Diagnose production failures, perform detailed root-cause analysis, and implement corrective and preventive actions.
Lead prototype assembly, rework, and repair activities alongside design and engineering teams.
Serve as a Certified IPC Trainer (CIT); deliver operator training and certification for soldering, rework, inspection, and cable/wire harness standards.
Develop and qualify manufacturing processes including die attach, wire bonding, solder assembly, vapor phase reflow, laser welding, and environmental screening.
Drive New Product Introduction (NPI) activities, transitioning designs into production while applying DFM principles and lean manufacturing methodologies.
Plan, schedule, and oversee production operations to ensure on-time, on-budget, and high-quality product delivery. (Experience from management roles).
Implement Statistical Process Control (SPC) systems and Design of Experiments (DOE) to evaluate and improve yields, materials, and processes.
Lead supplier evaluation, selection, qualification, and technology transfer activities, including on-site audits and first-article support.
Manage cross-functional engineering teams and participate in technical review boards, configuration control, and process standardization efforts.
Design and implement specialized tooling, fixtures, equipment, and error-proofing solutions to improve manufacturability and reliability.
Export Control: This position requires access to export-controlled information. Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a U.S. person as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).