LEAD ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Process/Manufacturing of Space Flight Electronics

Southwest Research Institute - San Antonio, TX

Full-time

San Antonio, TX

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Manufacturing Engineer position at SwRI's SpaceSector involves leading the fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs) for the Space Systems Division. This role is crucial in the manufacturing of sophisticated, one-of-a-kind systems that contribute to space exploration and research, advancing scientific knowledge while safeguarding national security. The engineer will work in a low-volume, high-mix R&D environment, focusing on meeting diverse requirements ranging from quick-turn prototypes to space-flight certified electronics. Attention to detail is paramount, as the engineer will be responsible for ensuring that all processes adhere to stringent standards. In this role, the Manufacturing Engineer will function as a key member of the Fabrication team, providing guidance, training, and expertise to area personnel. The engineer will establish new processes and implement ongoing improvements, conducting root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions within the R&D engineering environment. Daily responsibilities include maintaining space flight hardware PCB assembly processes, procedures, and training, which encompass cleaning and soldering of both Surface Mount and through-hole electronics to IPC-A-610 Class 3 and IPC-J-Std-001 with Flight Addendum standards. Additionally, the engineer will be responsible for the qualification, operation, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of area equipment, including solder jet pasting, pick and place, vapor phase reflow, selective soldering, component storage, and optical monitoring equipment. The role also involves providing technical training in soldering and manufacturing techniques to fabrication technicians, supporting Controlled Stores operations for safe and effective storage and control of Program and Division components and inventory, and establishing and performing process controls, measurements, and product inspections. Documentation and creation of Division Operating Processes and procedures, including written work instructions, are also key components of this position.

Responsibilities

• Lead the fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs) for the Space Systems Division.
• Manufacture sophisticated systems for space exploration and research.
• Maintain space flight hardware PCB assembly processes and procedures.
• Provide training in soldering and manufacturing techniques to fabrication technicians.
• Establish and perform process controls, measurements, and product inspections.
• Document and create Division Operating Processes and procedures, including written work instructions.
• Troubleshoot and repair area equipment, including solder jet pasting and pick and place machines.
• Support Controlled Stores operations for safe storage and control of components and inventory.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Process Engineering.
• 5 years of experience in PCB assembly and fabrication.
• Knowledge of electronic components, soldering, and solder reflow principles.
• Strong troubleshooting skills and familiarity with defect analysis techniques.
• Experience with Designed Experiments, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, Lean, and DfX methodologies.
• 3 years of experience with inventory control systems.
• A valid/clear driver's license.