NPI Hardware Engineer

Job Title

Job Description

Lead hardware readiness for new server and rack SKUs through EVT → DVT → PVT → MP phases.

Validate mechanical and electro-mechanical integration: chassis, brackets, heatsinks, cables, PCBA fit, airflow, and component placement.

Coordinate and execute first-article builds, ensuring hardware components, tooling, and fixtures are ready.

Identify hardware risks early and drive mitigation plans before pilot builds.

Perform hardware bring-up and system-level validation during early builds.

Troubleshoot mechanical fit issues, tolerance stack-ups, cabling conflicts, and assembly challenges.

Partner with Test Engineering to ensure hardware supports diagnostic flows, thermal profiles, and stress testing.

Lead root-cause analysis for hardware-related failures and drive corrective actions.

Interpret mechanical drawings, CAD models, and engineering specifications.

Review and implement ECNs/ECOs related to hardware components, assemblies, and configurations.

Collaborate with Document Control and BOM Specialists to ensure accurate BOM structure, part numbers, alternates, and revisions.

Create or update hardware-specific work instructions, assembly steps, and tooling requirements.

Work closely with Design Engineering to ensure manufacturability, serviceability, and hardware robustness.

Partner with Process Engineering to hand off stable hardware processes after ramp-up.

Coordinate with Supply Chain on part readiness, AVL alignment, alternates, and long-lead hardware components.

Support Quality Engineering with hardware defect analysis, incoming inspection criteria, and supplier corrective actions.

Conduct hardware readiness reviews for new SKUs, ensuring materials, tooling, fixtures, and test equipment are available.

Validate assembly sequences, torque specs, mechanical tolerances, and ergonomic considerations.

Ensure new hardware builds achieve stable FPY, predictable cycle time, and minimal rework before production release.

Capture lessons learned from each NPI cycle and integrate them into future hardware launch processes.

Recommend design improvements to enhance manufacturability, reduce assembly time, and improve reliability.

Drive improvements in hardware validation methods, pilot build structure, and cross-functional communication.

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.

3+ years of experience in NPI, Hardware Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or electro-mechanical product development.

Hands-on experience with server, rack, PCBA, or electro-mechanical hardware builds.

Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, CAD models, schematics, and specifications.

Strong understanding of hardware integration: cabling, mechanical fit, thermal considerations, PCBA placement, and system-level assembly.

Experience with ECO/ECR processes and PLM/ERP systems (Agile, Arena, SAP, Oracle, etc.).

Strong problem-solving skills and ability to lead cross-functional issue resolution.

Experience in high-mix, fast-turn electronics manufacturing.

Familiarity with server architecture, component compatibility, and system-level validation.

Experience with tolerance analysis, DFMA, and mechanical reliability testing.

Knowledge of test processes, thermal validation, and diagnostic flows.

Lean manufacturing or Six Sigma background.

Benefit Insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Mental Health Care

401K with match

Paid Holidays, Vacation & Sick Days

Tuition Reimbursement

Perks at Work

LEAP Program

My Flex Pay

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.