Role Overview:
The NPI (New Product Introduction) Engineer – SMT & Assembly is responsible for end‑to‑end introduction of Integrated System Packages / new electronic products into the SMT and Final assembly production lines. This role ensures smooth transition from design to mass manufacturing by developing processes, validating equipment capability, preparing documentation, and coordinating with cross‑functional teams.
The role is accountable for process yield, reliability, cost saving while building strong cross functional alignment with TDG, Process , Equipment, Quality and Customer teams.
Key Responsibilities:
- NPI Planning & Project Execution
- Lead NPI Activities from design phase to mass production phase for SMT & Box Assembly Processes.
- Evaluate Product designs (DFM) and provide inputs/feedback to Design Team / Customers.
- Prepare NPI Project Plans, timelines & deliverables.
- Conduct feasibility studies for new processes & Products.
- Provide complete NPI documentation for customer approval.
- Develop and maintain all process documentation, work instructions & SOPs.
- All new models trail pre-readiness (EVT/ DVT / PVT).
- Create SMT Programs for Pick n Place/Mounter, SPP, SPI, AOI & Reflow oven based on Gerber, CAD data & BOM.
- Define & develop jigs/ fixtures and ergonomic tools for SMT & Box Assembly operations.
- Define optimal SMT parameters (Solder Paste type, Stencil design, Reflow Profile, Component Placement rule etc. )
- Develop & Validate reflow Profiles for lead free processes.
- Drive First Article Inspection and resolution of SMT related defects.
- Develop process for Wave Soldering, Selective Soldering, assembly line setup, testing & packaging.
- Optimize cycle times and improve process efficiency during NPI trails
- Accountable for first pass yield, final yield and field reliability.
- Lead root cause analysis for yield excursions using FMEA, DOE and failure analysis during NPI Trails.
- Ensure zero critical quality escapes at launch.
- Operational Excellence & Cost Optimization
- Identify cost down opportunities (Using 4M Man, Method, Machine & Material)
- To ensure Proper line setup & Program version management during NPI.
- To ensure compliance with ESD, Safety & IPC standards.
- Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
- Serve as a technical NPI member for customers.
- Will be technical team member for customer reviews, technology discussions and risk mitigation plans.
- Collaborate with IT teams to connect automation with MES platforms.
- Ensure seamless data flow for production monitoring and traceability.
Key Deliverables & KPI
- Ontime Product Launch & First time right
- First Pass Yield and Ramp to Volume Timeline
- NPI Success Rate
- Cost to target achievement
- Customer satisfaction and audit outcomes during NPI Phase.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor / master in related Engineering Discipline (Preferred Mechanical / Industrial / Electronics)
- 5-8 years’ experience in in SMT + Box Assembly NPI within EMS, Electronics Manufacturing, Automotive Electronics, Consumer Electronics, or similar industry.
- Expertise in SMT Processes, Reflow profiling, Stencil design, and Soldering technologies.
- Ability to interpret Gerber files, schematics, and PCB design documents.
- Knowledge of CAD/CAM tools for SMT programming & Knowledge of DFM/DFT guidelines.
- Working Knowledge & Handson experience on SMT Machines Screen Print , Pick n Place , Reflow & AOI.
- Experience in high volume manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of IPC standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001, IPC‑7351).
- Proficiency in root cause analysis & problem solving tools ( 8D , 5 why , DOE )
