Principal PCBA Test Engineer

Mks Instruments • Wilmington, MA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an exceptional Principal PCBA (Printed Circuit Board Assembly) Test Engineer to lead in the design, development and documentation of automated test systems and test processes for electronic assemblies (incl flying probe, AOI, 5DX, and ICT). This role ensures the reliability, performance, and manufacturability of PCBAs through rigorous testing strategies and collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams. As a Principal PCBA Test Engineer, you will utilize your skills in electrical/electronic PCBA design & documentation practice, DfM / DfT analysis, and manufacturing process qualification to support our high mix, low volume production sites AND provide frontline technical support to the PCBA CMs in troubleshooting MKS PCBA subassembly and test system related issues. You Will Make an Impact By: Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, supply chain, operations) to ensure PCBA assemblies meet design and quality standards. Define and implement PCBA test strategies, including DFM/DFT reviews during NPI. Design, develop, and document automated test systems, fixtures, and software for contract manufacturers. Validate and troubleshoot automated test systems and UUT issues using LabVIEW/TestStand. Support global contract manufacturers with remote training, troubleshooting, and process optimization. Lead ICT development and qualification of test fixtures, equipment, and software for production environments. Analyze test data, drive root-cause analysis, and continuously improve test coverage, fault isolation, and throughput. Maintain revision control, documentation, and review supplier changes (PCNs, Gage R&R) for test processes. Conduct DFM/DFT reviews and oversee supplier DFM reviews for NPI. Conduct Design for Testability (DFT) DFM / DFT reviews during New Product Introduction (NPI). Participate in design reviews and ensure adherence to engineering standards and best practices (process / chemistries

Requirements

• Designs, develops, and implements cost-effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems and equipment
• Prepares test and diagnostic programs, designs test fixtures and equipment, and completes specifications and procedures for new products
• Requires a BS in Electrical Engineering
• 8+ years' experience in PCBA functional test program set (hardware & software) design and test automation, ideally in a high mix, low volume environment is required.
• Subject matter expertise in PCBA manufacturing processes, SMT, PCBA test methodologies & inspection, PCBA design and board chemistry.
• In depth knowledge of IPC standards related to PCBA manufacturing.
• Experience with schematic capture and analysis applications such as Mentor Graphics/PADS, and OrCAD are required.
• Experience with automated test system design, test fixture design for low noise analog PCB's and high-speed digital PCB's and software development is required.
• Experience with DFT (Design for Test) and DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles is required.
• Experience managing vendors and external design partners, as well as providing training and technical support to contract manufacturers (CMs) both onsite and remotely, is required.
• Ability to create detailed project plans is required.
• Perform activities such as sitting, standing, or typing for extended periods of time
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs
• Regularly requires good manual dexterity and coordination
• Regularly requires manual dexterity and coordination of objects below, at and above shoulder level
• Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand
• Must be able to exchange accurate information
• Ability to observe documents and details at close range (within a few feet of the observer)
• Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards, including handling mechanical and electrical hardware, high voltage, gas, water, and heat
• This position is an on-site position and candidate must be within commutable distance to our location in Wilmington, MA.
• We are interested in a qualified candidates eligible to work in the United States and will not be sponsoring work visas for this position, at this time.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, supply chain, operations) to ensure PCBA assemblies meet design and quality standards.
• Define and implement PCBA test strategies, including DFM/DFT reviews during NPI.
• Design, develop, and document automated test systems, fixtures, and software for contract manufacturers.
• Validate and troubleshoot automated test systems and UUT issues using LabVIEW/TestStand.
• Support global contract manufacturers with remote training, troubleshooting, and process optimization.
• Lead ICT development and qualification of test fixtures, equipment, and software for production environments.
• Analyze test data, drive root-cause analysis, and continuously improve test coverage, fault isolation, and throughput.
• Maintain revision control, documentation, and review supplier changes (PCNs, Gage R&R) for test processes.
• Conduct DFM/DFT reviews and oversee supplier DFM reviews for NPI.
• Conduct Design for Testability (DFT) DFM / DFT reviews during New Product Introduction (NPI).
• Participate in design reviews and ensure adherence to engineering standards and best practices (process / chemistries

Benefits

• MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.
• Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal