Senior Manager, Hardware Development Engineering

Western Digital - San Jose, CA

Full-time - Senior

San Jose, CA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Senior Manager of Hardware Development Engineering at Western Digital is responsible for leading the development of hard disk media burnish processes for next-generation ePMR and HAMR products. This role involves managing a team focused on process optimization, equipment upgrades, and collaboration across various functional teams to ensure high yield and reliability in manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Manage and lead the FTP process and equipment development team.
• Design, carry out, and analyze DOE's to optimize process variables and materials for hard disk yield and reliability.
• Lead equipment upgrades and material vendor qualifications.
• Collaborate with process engineering, product engineering, manufacturing, failure analysis, and material analysis teams.
• Work with overseas manufacturing sites to implement new processes and ensure success in factories.
• Investigate root causes of FTP-related failures.
• Develop process materials in collaboration with material vendors.
• Develop metrology for FTP processes and friction measurements.
• Lead equipment engineers to improve existing process tools for next-generation media processes.
• Explore new technologies to enhance process performance.
• Work in a cleanroom environment.

Requirements

• Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in Semiconductor or Hard Disk Media Industries in Process Development.
• 5+ years of people management experience.
• Strong experience in device fabrication such as polishing, grinding, and lapping.
• Experience in equipment upgrades and materials qualification.
• Ability to solve complex process issues.
• Data analysis skills in process development and improvement.
• Demonstrated project management skills to meet deadlines.
• Hands-on experience in process standardization and statistical process control.
• Experience with running and analyzing DOE's; proficiency with JMP is helpful.
• Understanding of surface characterization techniques such as laser scanning, AFM, SEM.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $148,495.00 - $210,300.00
• Comprehensive health insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities