Senior NPI Test Engineer
Job Description
Senior NPI Test Engineer
Cork | Permanent
The Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior NPI Test Engineer to join a global technology organisation with an established engineering and manufacturing operation in Cork.
Working within a highly technical product development environment, you will play a key role in the introduction of new products from engineering into manufacturing, supporting pre-production builds, test, assembly, materials readiness and production transfer.
The organisation develops advanced technologies across semiconductor, RF, microwave, photonics and high-speed electronics, supporting demanding applications across communications, data infrastructure, industrial and aerospace markets.
This role offers excellent exposure to the complete product introduction process, working closely with engineering, manufacturing, suppliers and contract manufacturing partners to ensure new products are successfully transitioned into production.
The position would suit an experienced electronics or NPI engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of product development, test and manufacturing, and who is comfortable taking ownership of technically complex projects in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
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Plan, assemble and test pre-production and engineering builds in support of new product development and customer requirements.
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Coordinate the procurement and availability of materials required for engineering builds and prototype production.
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Manage engineering samples, prototype inventory, finished goods and customer sample allocation.
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Support the improvement and ongoing maintenance of pre-production SMT manufacturing capability within the Cork laboratory.
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Set up and programme SMT equipment for engineering builds.
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Work with global contract manufacturers and suppliers to coordinate engineering builds and ensure clear build instructions are provided.
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Analyse pre-production test data and prepare technical reports on findings.
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Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives across NPI, test and manufacturing processes.
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Support the successful transition of new products from engineering development into manufacturing.
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Monitor engineering builds, WIP and production backlogs, proactively identifying potential material shortages and implementing appropriate solutions.
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Investigate assembly and manufacturing failures, carrying out root-cause analysis and supporting corrective actions.
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Work with engineering teams to define and maintain Bill of Materials (BOM) structures and ensure product data integrity.
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Develop and maintain clear and accurate work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
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Collaborate with Product Line and Engineering teams on engineering sample requirements and allocation.
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Ensure engineering materials, builds and samples are delivered on schedule to internal and external customers.
Technical Expertise
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Strong electronic engineering background with experience in product development, NPI, manufacturing or test.
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Proven experience supporting products through engineering development and into production.
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Practical experience with SMT equipment and electronics assembly processes.
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Experience analysing test data and troubleshooting product, test or assembly issues.
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Knowledge of semiconductor testing and electronic measurement techniques.
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Familiarity with Vector Network Analysers (VNAs), spectrum analysers and RF/DC source automation would be advantageous.
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Strong understanding of structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis.
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Experience working with engineering documentation, BOMs and manufacturing processes.
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Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver to tight deadlines.
Desirable Experience
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Experience within semiconductor, RF, microwave, photonics or high-speed electronics environments.
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Experience across product development, manufacturing, qualification and operations.
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Experience with automated test systems and RF measurement equipment.
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Experience working with contract manufacturers and international suppliers.
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Previous experience managing engineering builds and supporting new product introduction.
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Experience driving continuous improvement within an NPI, test or manufacturing environment.
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Understanding of high-reliability or high-volume electronics manufacturing.
Experience & Qualifications
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Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.
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Approximately 8 years’ industry experience within electronics, semiconductor, test, manufacturing or a related engineering environment.
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Proven experience in NPI or engineering-to-manufacturing transfer.
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Strong technical problem-solving and analytical capability.
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Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to both engineering and non-engineering stakeholders.
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Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across global engineering and manufacturing teams.
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Strong planning and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple programmes and competing deadlines.
What’s on Offer
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Join a global technology organisation working at the forefront of advanced semiconductor and electronic technologies.
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Play a key role in bringing innovative products from engineering development through to manufacturing.
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Exposure to cutting-edge RF, microwave, photonics and high-speed electronics.
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Work across international engineering, manufacturing, supplier and contract manufacturing networks.
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Opportunity to influence NPI, test, manufacturing readiness and continuous improvement.
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A technically challenging and collaborative engineering environment.
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Strong opportunities for technical development and career progression.
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The opportunity to build expertise across the full product development and manufacturing lifecycle.
Location: Cork
Travel: Occasional domestic and international travel may be required.