Manufacturing & Process Development Engineer II

Job OverviewAt TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world. Join TE Connectivity's industry-leading Passive Optics organization as a Manufacturing Process Development Engineer and drive manufacturing excellence in optical connector termination processes. You'll tackle complex manufacturing challenges in high‑precision fiber optic termination, working with advanced production technologies and lean manufacturing principles to optimize both internal operations and external contract manufacturing partnerships that enable the world's most demanding optical connectivity applications.Why This Role MattersAs optical interconnect demand accelerates across AI, hyperscale computing, and 5G infrastructure, manufacturing excellence in fiber optic termination has become mission‑critical. You'll be at the forefront of developing scalable, robust manufacturing processes that directly enable TE's competitive advantage while ensuring world‑class quality and cost performance in optical connectivity manufacturing.Operations are currently based at a temporary site in Webster, NY. The team will transition to a permanent Rochester location upon completion.ResponsibilitiesDesign and optimize end‑to‑end optical connector manufacturing processes, including fiber prep, termination, polishing, and testing.Develop process flows, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications for single‑mode and multi‑mode optical assemblies.Lead DFM reviews to ensure new designs meet volume, quality, yield, and cost goals.Drive PFMEA activities to identify risks and implement preventive controls.Create complete production documentation (process specs, control plans, WI, quality procedures).Prepare and qualify tools, fixtures, and equipment for precision optical termination.Lead qualification builds and validation runs (LVM, sample runs) to confirm capability and statistical control.Coordinate qualification documentation, reviews, and approvals.Manage pilot runs for new products, resolving engineering issues and validating process capability.Establish and track key manufacturing metrics (Cpk, yield, cycle time).Lead FACA/root‑cause investigations for manufacturing issues.Implement continuous improvement using TEOA tools for cost, yield, and cycle‑time optimization.Run Kaizen events to eliminate waste, improve throughput, and reduce changeovers.Enhance equipment reliability, process durability, and spare‑parts efficiency.Improve safety via machine guarding, control reliability, and operator protection initiatives.Train and mentor operators and technicians in optical termination methods and quality practices.Develop and deliver technical training on fiber handling, termination, inspection, and troubleshooting.Implement competency assessments and certification programs.Build mentorship programs to support skill development and knowledge transfer.Update routing, cycle times, and parameters after process changes.Optimize material flow, workspace layout, and personnel movement to reduce waste.Support CapEx/OpEx decisions through cost, capability, and vendor analysis.Integrate test systems, automation equipment, and MES for smooth production operations.Develop technology roadmaps for next‑generation optical connector manufacturing.Innovate new processes for advanced connectors (expanded beam, ganged ferrules, high‑density systems).Define automation strategies including robotic handling, automated polishing, and AI‑based inspection.Drive Industry 4.0 initiatives using IoT, predictive maintenance, and manufacturing analytics.QualificationsEducation: BS in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering, or related field.Experience: 2–5 years in manufacturing process development, ideally in precision assembly, fiber optics, or electronics.Hands‑on experience with optical connector termination, fiber handling, precision processes, and SPC.Strong foundation in Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement.Proficiency in fiber cleaving, polishing, inspection, and optical testing with tight tolerance control.Experience with precision equipment, automated assembly, process validation, and equipment qualification.Skilled with PFMEA, SPC, control plans, MSA, and quality assurance tools.Able to create clear process specs, work instructions, training content, and qualification protocols.Experience with statistical tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and capability analysis.Expertise in single‑mode/multi‑mode handling, end‑face prep, polishing, and testing.Strong understanding of high‑precision mechanical assembly, alignment, and dimensional control.Experience with tech transfers, supplier qualification, and contract manufacturing.Familiarity with robotics, vision systems, automated test, and process control systems.Green Belt or higher; experienced in Kaizen and waste‑reduction methods.Proven ability in SPC implementation, MSA, and capability studies.Strong analytical and root‑cause‑analysis abilities.Skilled in managing cross‑functional projects and meeting aggressive deadlines.Excellent communication and presentation skills across all organizational levels.Leadership experience leading FACA efforts, improvement initiatives, and mentoring technical staff.Preferred QualificationsMS in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or related field.Background in telecom, data center, automotive, or aerospace precision manufacturing.Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean certification, PE license, or CMfgE.Experience with simulation tools, CAD, MES, and ERP systems.Familiarity with ISO 9001, TS 16949, and optical standards (IEC, TIA/EIA).Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive base salary commensurate with experience: $82,000 – $123,000 (subject to change dependent on physical location) Total Compensation = Base Salary + Incentive(s) + Benefits.A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, 401(k), disability, life insurance, employee stock purchase plan, paid time off and voluntary benefits.EEO StatementTE Connectivity is an Equal Opportunity / Equal Benefit Employer. TE Connectivity will provide reasonable accommodation for applicants with a disability. Applicants may also receive and have equal opportunity for employment as veterans.Recruitment Fraud NoticeTE Connectivity has become aware of fraudulent recruitment activities. TE Connectivity never requests payment or fees from job applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. All legitimate job openings are posted exclusively on our official careers website at te.com/careers, and all email communications from our recruitment team will come only from actual email addresses ending in @te.com. If you receive any suspicious communications, do not engage or provide any personal information, and report the incident to local authorities.#J-18808-Ljbffr