Process Development Engineer

Phononic Inc. • Durham, NC

6d

About The Position

As a Process Development Engineer at Phononic, you will play a crucial role in developing and optimizing innovative solid-state cooling and heating solutions. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, and quality, to design, implement, and scale up manufacturing processes. Your expertise in process engineering, problem-solving, and continuous improvement will contribute to the development of groundbreaking technologies that redefine efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience in process development, preferably in a high-tech manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of process engineering principles, including process characterization, statistical analysis, and design of experiments (DOE).
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software (e.g., JMP, Minitab, Excel).
• Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma methodologies and tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as in cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented and committed to maintaining high-quality standards.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with solid-state cooling and heating technologies, thermoelectric devices, or related fields is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Process Development: Design, develop, and optimize manufacturing processes for Phononic's solid-state cooling and heating solutions. Ensure processes are scalable, reliable, and meet quality standards.
• New Product Introduction: Collaborate with R&D teams to translate new product designs into efficient and robust manufacturing processes. Drive the successful transition of prototypes to volume production.
• Process Characterization: Conduct comprehensive process characterization studies to identify critical process parameters and their impact on product quality and performance. Establish process control plans and monitor process capabilities.
• Tool Qualification: Work with tool supplier to develop and qualify new tools to improve capability and expand capacity at Phononic’s factories both in the US and overseas.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for process improvement and drive initiatives to enhance yield, cycle time, and cost efficiency. Implement Lean Six Sigma methodologies to drive process optimization.
• Troubleshooting and Problem-solving: Investigate and resolve process-related issues, including yield, reliability, and quality concerns. Implement corrective and preventive actions to ensure consistent process performance.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed documentation of process development activities, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), process specifications, and engineering change orders (ECOs). Generate regular reports on process performance and improvement initiatives.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to ensure smooth process transfer, alignment of goals, and effective communication.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety protocols. Participate in risk assessments and implement appropriate controls.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees