Component Engineer

SUMMARY: The Component Engineer is responsible for ensuring there are components available to build products that meet customer needs as well as product and regulatory requirements on schedule. Identify and implement alternates that lower cost while meeting all requirements and maintaining quality standards. The Component Engineer is also responsible for creating and maintaining test and component records to support the components being used.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain knowledge of all processes pertaining to order placement, modification, and tracking of raw materials.
• Research, review, and obtain technical documentation for all new and alternate parts.
• Implement and maintain a component End of Life program. Track all End of Life and Product Change Notices and determine what products are affected and the costs associated.
• Implement and maintain an alternate sourcing program.
• Define and implement metrics for analyzing cost reduction opportunities and achievements. Track and report savings and trends to upper-level management.
• Continuously work to identify areas of improvement in the component processes.
• Lead projects and initiatives to ensure cost and quality goals for materials, supplies, equipment and services are met.
  • Set project goals
  • Create test plans for components
  • Complete the approval testing of new and/or alternate source materials
  • Complete and gather all documentation needed around components
• Take a lead role in the Supplier Qualification process.
  • Collaborate with Purchasing and Finance concerning Supplier Qualification and Monitoring programs.
  • Manage supplier acceptance and review criteria pertaining to our Supplier Qualification Program.
  • Develop and maintain reports that aid the efficiency of the Purchasing department and supplier performance.
• Develop and maintain vendor partnerships; strategically negotiate product costs, terms, and overall vendor support.
• Review all engineering designs as part of the design review process, to assure risks associated with single source or NCNR components are eliminated wherever possible prior to the release of the design.
• Work with Purchasing and Manufacturing on Excess & Obsolete components and board level assembly inventories.
• Work with CAD to assure component information/documentation is loaded into the component finder database.
• Work with Purchasing to assure that all selected components are available and fit purchasing schemes.
• Help maintain Approved Vendor Lists in database
• Research, review and obtain technical documentation for all new and alternate parts.
• Coordinate andmaintain documentation relating to component approvals
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• B.S. Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience
• 1-3+ years of component engineering experience in electronic manufacturing environment ideal. Product design experience preferred.
• Strong analytical skills, problem solving and decision-making skills
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Familiar with domestic and international shipping requirements.
• Proficient in Excel, Project, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams and Word.
• Familiar with purchasing and inventory software
• Familiar with the MRP & ERP process
• Familiar with the consignment inventory process

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Lifting requirements up to 25 pounds.
• Requires sitting for periods of time and occasional standing.
• Use hands to finger, handle or feel.
• Reaching required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Working conditions are normal for an office environment. Minimal noise.
• Our Minnesota facility includes a manufacturing environment. Moderate noise level. Machinery operation requires the use of safety equipment to include but not limited to; safety glasses, hearing protection, wrist and shoe straps, and ESD smock. Loose fitting clothing and jewelry are not permitted. No food allowed in the manufacturing area. No cell phone use allowed in manufacturing area unless approved by management.

EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED:

• Laptop computer and standard office equipment
• Small hand tools
• Power driver
• Soldering and desoldering equipment
• Multimeter
• Hand operated component press
• Microscope
• PCB depanelizing machine
• X-ray