Manufacturing Process Engineer

Job Description:

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Fremont, CA | Onsite

Role Summary:

We are seeking a Manufacturing Process Engineer to drive the development and optimization of manufacturing workflows for autonomous and robotics-based products. This role will lead the design and refinement of in-house assembly and test processes, with a strong focus on scalability, efficiency, and quality. The engineer will also coordinate the transition to Manufacturing Automation Integration (MAI) and manage the successful transfer to external Contract Manufacturing (CM) partners, ensuring a seamless path from pilot to volume production.

Key Responsibilities:

• In-House Assembly Process Ownership

• Collaborate with the existing internal team to develop and document the assembly and test process

• Define work instructions, quality checkpoints, and station layouts

• Support pilot and low-rate initial production (LRIP) builds

• Process Validation & Test Development

• Create assembly fixtures, test jigs, and procedures for electrical and mechanical validation

• Conduct first-article builds, process trials, and failure analysis

• Ensure product traceability and compliance with internal quality standards

• Transfer to MAI & Contract Manufacturing (CM)

• Lead process handoff to MAI team for scale-up support

• Develop training plans, process documentation, and tooling packages for CM

• Manage technical interface with the contract manufacturer during NPI and ramp

• Continuous Improvement

• Identify process bottlenecks and quality risks; propose and implement improvements

• Support yield tracking, DFM feedback, and cost reduction initiatives

• Drive process FMEAs and maintain PFMEA documentation

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Manufacturing Engineering
• 5+ years in manufacturing process engineering, preferably in robotics or automation
• Experience in new product introduction (NPI), pilot builds, and contract manufacturing transitions
• Proficient in assembly documentation, work instructions, and quality control tools
• Hands-on experience with test development and diagnostic procedures
• Strong communicator, able to interface with shop floor, design teams, and suppliers

Preferred Experience:

• Robotics, mobility platforms, or autonomous systems
• Solar industry or outdoor industrial products
• Experience with industrial test systems (e.g., motors, sensors, battery, telemetry)
• Familiarity with MAI (Manufacturing & Assembly Integration) best practices

Nextracker offers a comprehensive benefits package. We provide health care coverage, dental and vision, 401(K) participation including company matching, company paid holidays with unlimited paid time off, generous discretionary company bonuses, life and disability protection and more. Employees in certain positions may be eligible for stock compensation. All plans are in accordance with relevant plan documents. For more information on Nextracker's benefits please view our company website at www.nextracker.com. Pay is based on market location and may vary based on factors including experience, skills, education and other job-related reasons. The annual salary range for this position is $130,000 to $145,000.

At Nextracker, we are leading in the energy transition, providing the most comprehensive portfolio of intelligent solar tracker and software solutions for solar power plants, as well as strategic services to capture the full value of solar power plants for our customers. Our talented worldwide teams are transforming PV plant performance every day with smart technology, data monitoring and analysis services.

For us at Nextracker, sustainability is not just a word. It's a core part of our business, values and our operations. Our sustainability efforts are based on five cornerstones: People, Community, Environment, Innovation, and Integrity. We are creative, collaborative and passionate problem-solvers from diverse backgrounds, driven by our shared mission to provide smart solar and software solutions for our customers and to mitigate climate change for future generations.

Nextracker is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Culture is our Passion