Job Overview

The Senior Manager, Manufacturing & Process Development Engineering (MPDE) – Optics is a critical leadership role that supports the launch and scaling of TE’s new Rochester, NY, Optics manufacturing site. Reporting to the Senior Director, Operations – Optics, this role is responsible for industrializing, developing process technologies, and ensuring manufacturing readiness for high-speed optical and electro-optical interconnect solutions, including cable assemblies and next-generation optical products for data center and advanced networking applications.
This leader will partner closely with Product Management, Product Development, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain to develop robust, scalable, and cost-competitive manufacturing processes. The role has a strong focus on NPI execution, automation strategy, site capability build out, and talent development, while contributing to the broader global Optics operations and manufacturing strategy.
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Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing & Process Technology
•    Lead development and deployment of manufacturing process technologies for optical and electro-optical products, supporting both current and next-generation platforms
•    Ensure processes meet requirements for precision, optical performance, reliability, yield, and cost
•    Drive manufacturing cost competitiveness through DFM, automation, and platform standardization
•    Partner with Operations to ensure smooth handoff from development to high volume and sustaining manufacturing
New Product Introduction & Scale Up
•    Own MPDE execution for NPI projects, including process verification, qualification, and ramp to scale
•    Support site readiness for new programs, including equipment, tooling, automation, and resource planning
•    Contribute to technology and capability roadmaps for the Optics portfolio
Leadership & Organization
•    Build, lead, and develop a high-performing MPDE organization supporting the Rochester Optics site and the global Optics network
•    Identify skill gaps and execute hiring and development plans to ensure the right capabilities at the right time
•    Establish clear roles, accountability, and performance metrics aligned to BU and Optics operations strategy
•    Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, learning, and inclusion
Cross-Functional & Executive Engagement
•    Collaborate cross-functionally to address business and operational pain points through innovative manufacturing solutions
•    Interface with customers during manufacturing reviews, audits, and technical discussions as needed
•    Present manufacturing readiness, risks, and strategy updates to Senior Leadership
•    Act as a mentor and role model for engineering and operations leaders

Job Requirements

What your background should look like

Required Qualifications & Experience
•    Proven experience leading global teams of 15+ engineers and engineering leaders
•    Strong background in manufacturing and process development for optical products, high-speed interconnects, or technically equivalent technologies
•    Demonstrated success launching new products on time and at cost, from development through high volume production
•    Experience scaling manufacturing across multiple sites, including process qualification, documentation, and test strategies
•    Deep understanding of both manual and automated manufacturing processes, including automation transitions
•    Proficiency in long-range resource planning and manufacturing/automation platform design
Education
•    BS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
•    MS or higher degree preferred
Technical & Business Acumen
•    Broad manufacturing knowledge (e.g., optics assembly, high-speed cable, molding, plating, soldering, laser processes, materials, PLC/automation)
•    Strong data-driven problem-solving skills and statistical analysis capability
•    High level of business acumen with understanding of engineering, operations, quality, supply chain, and product management interdependencies
Leadership & Communication
•    Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and develop diverse global teams across cultures and disciplines
•    Strong collaboration and influencing skills with senior leaders and cross-functional partners
•    Excellent communication and executive-level presentation skills
•    Innovative mindset grounded in strong fundamentals and external benchmarking
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Additional Requirements
•    10+ years of relevant industry experience
•    Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (10%-25%)

Competencies