PCBA Manufacturing Engineer

Job description

Nexthop AI builds next-generation AI networking platforms for hyperscalers. We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to lead SMT, large-BGA, PCBA, and NPI manufacturing with our contract manufacturers.

Role Summary:

You will be the technical bridge between Hardware Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Operations, and CMs. You will drive design-for-manufacturing, process validation, issue resolution, yield improvement, and production scaling from prototype through high-volume manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities:

- Develop, validate, and optimize SMT and large-BGA assembly processes for complex, high-layer-count PCBAs.

- Establish PCBA assembly, inspection, testing, workmanship, and process-control specifications aligned with IPC standards.

- Drive DFM, DFA, DFT, DFS, and assembly-feasibility reviews for schematics, BOMs, layouts, panels, stack-ups, and manufacturing drawings.

- Lead NPI builds, process qualification, troubleshooting, debug, failure analysis, DOE/EFA, xVT, and production ramp activities.

- Partner with CMs to improve yield, quality, cost, and manufacturing readiness; target defect rates of 150 ppm.

- Resolve issues using RCCA, 8D, 5-Why, DOE, and other structured problem-solving methods.

- Manage defects, escapes, process capability, rework, scrap, and corrective/preventive actions.

- Define and standardize SMT and PCBA best practices across SPI, pick-and-place, reflow, AOI, X-ray, ICT, flying probe, press-fit, FATP, box build, and packaging.

- Manage ECOs, MCOs, deviations, PCNs, work instructions, and special-build requirements through PLM systems.

- Assess CM and supplier capability, lead corrective actions, and collaborate with BGA/component vendors on DfX.

- Support BOM risk assessment, component qualification, inventory readiness, and product lifecycle management.

- Travel to CM and supplier sites as needed for builds, audits, qualification, and issue resolution.

Required Qualifications:

- BS or MS in Electrical, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

- 10+ years of hands-on SMT, PCBA, and large-BGA manufacturing experience; 10+ years of NPI experience preferred.

- Strong experience with complex, high-layer-count PCBAs and prototype-to-production ramps.

- Deep knowledge of PCBA materials, solder-joint metallurgy, reflow, inspection, testing, and assembly reliability.

- Proven experience with PCBA debug, failure analysis, root-cause investigation, and corrective action.

- Experience reviewing PCB layouts, stack-ups, panels, BOMs, and manufacturing requirements for DfX.

- Proficiency with PLM change processes, including ECO, MCO, DEV, PCN, and deviations.

- Familiarity with Allegro, Cadence, Valor, schematic/layout, CAD, and related manufacturing tools.

- Strong cross-functional communication, ownership, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to work effectively in ambiguous, fast-paced environments and travel to CM locations.

- Experience working at a high-volume CM for PCBA and box-build products.

- Experience with 30–40+ layer boards, networking hardware, ASIC-related products, or advanced Networking platforms.