Staff Engineer, Hardware Development Engineering

Company Description

At Western Digital, our vision is to power global innovation and push the boundaries of technology to make what you thought was once impossible, possible.

At our core, Western Digital is a company of problem solvers. People achieve extraordinary things given the right technology. For decades, we’ve been doing just that. Our technology helped people put a man on the moon.

We are a key partner to some of the largest and highest growth organizations in the world. From energizing the most competitive gaming platforms, to enabling systems to make cities safer and cars smarter and more connected, to powering the data centers behind many of the world’s biggest companies and public cloud, Western Digital is fueling a brighter, smarter future.

Binge-watch any shows, use social media or shop online lately? You’ll find Western Digital supporting the storage infrastructure behind many of these platforms. And, that flash memory card that captures and preserves your most precious moments? That’s us, too.

We offer an expansive portfolio of technologies, storage devices and platforms for business and consumers alike. Our data-centric solutions are comprised of the Western Digital®, G-Technology™, SanDisk® and WD® brands.

Today’s exceptional challenges require your unique skills. It’s You & Western Digital. Together, we’re the next BIG thing in data.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement high-precision measurement techniques and tools for evaluating coupling alignment and waveguide transmission in HAMR components.
• Conduct Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (GR&R) studies to ensure the reliability and consistency of metrology tools and measurement processes.
• Collaborate with optical and laser engineering teams to assess and optimize laser diode alignment within the HAMR system, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Provide metrology support to manufacturing engineering teams, integrating measurement solutions into production processes to enhance product quality and yield.
• Analyze metrology data to identify trends, correlations, and potential issues, providing actionable insights to improve product design and manufacturing processes.
• Work on the development, calibration, and maintenance of metrology tools and systems that support the HAMR technology roadmap.
• Partner with R&D, process engineering, and quality assurance teams to integrate metrology solutions into the broader product development and manufacturing processes.
• Lead initiatives to enhance measurement accuracy, reduce variability, and improve overall process control in HAMR technology.
• Maintain detailed records of measurement processes, results, and calibration procedures, and prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of precision and excellence in metrology.

Qualifications

REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in metrology, with a focus on high-precision measurements in advanced manufacturing technologies. Prior experience with HAMR technology is highly desirable.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to a diverse audience in English.
• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and lead initiatives in a collaborative environment.

PREFERRED:

• Experience in the development and scaling of metrology solutions in a high-tech manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of advanced optical measurement techniques and tools.
• Familiarity with AI-driven metrology solutions.

SKILLS:

• In-depth knowledge of Heat-Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) technology, including the principles of laser-induced heating, magnetic recording, and the interaction between the laser and magnetic media.
• Extensive experience with optical metrology techniques, including interferometry, microscopy, and laser-based measurement systems.
• Strong expertise in the measurement and alignment of waveguides and optical coupling components, with a focus on ensuring precise laser diode alignment.
• Proven experience in conducting Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility (GR&R) studies, with the ability to design and execute experiments that assess measurement system variability.
• Solid understanding and practical experience in applying Six Sigma principles to drive continuous improvement in metrology processes and manufacturing integration.
• Expertise in precision engineering principles, including the design, calibration, and maintenance of high-precision metrology tools and systems.
• Proficiency in data analysis, including statistical process control (SPC), to monitor and improve measurement processes.
• Experience in the development and customization of metrology tools for specialized applications in HAMR or similar advanced technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate metrology solutions into manufacturing processes, with a focus on improving product quality, yield, and process control.
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW for developing and automating metrology tools and data analysis workflows.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical challenges in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Information

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at jobs.accommodations@wdc.com to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.