Job Overview

As a Senior Optical Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in launching new products, developing, and implementing manufacturing technologies, and driving continuous improvement across operations. You’ll collaborate with Product Development, Operations, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to develop processes that support innovative new products while optimizing production, enhancing cost efficiency, and maintaining TE’s commitment to quality and safety standards.

Job Requirements

• New Product & Process Development

  • Execute deliverables for the NPD Phase Gate process.
  • Provide DFM/DFA feedback during early product design stages.
  • Conduct PFMEAs and implement high-risk mitigation strategies.
  • Leverage ME tools to support development and qualification of manufacturing processes (e.g., capability studies, sample builds, FAIs).
  • Collaborate on cost estimation for new product concepts.
  • Ensure new process and equipment compliance with TE safety and ergonomic policies.

   

  Production Optimization

  • Design, develop, and deploy equipment, tooling, and fixtures for fiber optic assemblies.
  • Analyze and improve line layouts (material flow, ergonomics, waste reduction).
  • Use Lean Manufacturing tools to reduce cost, improve quality, and increase throughput.
  • Lead and support capital expenditure (CER) processes including justification and ROI analysis.
  • Support root cause analysis using DMAIC, 5 Whys, 8D, and other problem-solving tools.

   

  Manufacturing Support

  • Sustain and improve current manufacturing processes with a focus on fiber optic assemblies.
  • Create and maintain manufacturing instructions, routings, and specifications for new product introduction.
  • Support data collection and perform statistical analysis to ensure process control.
  • Utilize statistical and DOE methods to develop and optimize new manufacturing processes.
  • Work closely with quality teams to define process limits and manage material specs, aligning process capabilities with product requirements.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for fiber optic manufacturing processes across TE’s global operations footprint.

What your background should look like

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Electrical, Optical, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• Experience in fiber optics, electrical connectivity, tooling design, or wire crimping technologies.
• Experience introducing new products as part of a project team.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2 years related to fiber optic products.
• Experience with machine/process design and deployment into production.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; hands-on and proactive approach.
• Familiarity with BOMs, routings, MES, and change management systems.
• Proficient in 3D CAD and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Exposure to programming languages or systems used in MES/database management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; comfortable working in cross-functional and geographically distributed teams.
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma Manufacturing principles (Green or Black Belt certification preferred).

• Advanced degree (MS, MBA) is a plus.

Other Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (ITAR/EAR compliance).
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs and work extended periods at a computer or on the production floor.

Competencies