Principal Quality Engineer
Principal Manufacturing Quality Engineer (Assembly)
Location: Morgan Hill, CA. (On‑site)
Industry: Semiconductor | Aerospace & Defense | High‑Reliability Manufacturing
A leading semiconductor and high‑reliability electronics manufacturer is seeking a Principal Manufacturing Quality Engineer to support assembly operations for mission‑critical products. This role focuses on soldered and mechanical assemblies supporting aerospace, defense, and high‑performance applications.
This is a highly technical, hands‑on position with strong ownership of quality processes, customer interaction, and continuous improvement in a regulated manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide quality engineering support for assembly operations (pallet, housing, final assemblies)
- Develop and maintain inspection criteria, workmanship standards, control plans, and PFMEAs
- Review assembly drawings, travelers, and work instructions for compliance and quality readiness
- Support in‑process inspections and final product acceptance
- Ensure compliance with military, aerospace, and industry standards (MIL, IPC, JEDEC)
- Support First Article Inspections (AS9102)
- Lead MRB activities, root cause analysis, and corrective actions (8D / CAPA)
- Present customer‑facing quality reports and drive resolution of issues
- Drive continuous improvement through PFMEA and risk‑based methodologies
- Partner cross‑functionally with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and suppliers
Qualifications
- BS or MS in Electrical, Mechanical, Materials Engineering, or related discipline
- 6-15+ years of experience in quality engineering within assembly manufacturing environments
- Strong experience supporting mechanical and/or soldered assemblies
- Hands‑on experience in mid‑ to high‑volume production environments (required)
- Working knowledge of:
- IPC standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001, etc.)
- Military/aerospace standards (MIL‑STD, JEDEC)
- PFMEA, control plans, MRB, and 8D/CAPA processes
- Ability to interpret drawings, specs, and technical documentation
- Strong communication skills, including customer‑facing interactions
- U.S. Person status required (ITAR regulations)
Preferred
- Semiconductor or high‑reliability electronics manufacturing experience
- Experience supporting AS9100 environments
- Familiarity with statistical analysis tools
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $93,000 - $177,000, depending on experience
- Eligible for bonuses and equity (RSUs) based on individual and company performance
- Comprehensive benefits, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.