Equipment Engineering Manager - Vacuum

Company DescriptionWD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy.

As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in.

We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide.

This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today.

We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level.

Join us and let’s shape the future of data.

Job Description The Sr. Equipment Manager for the Vacuum Process area will be responsible for overseeing all operations related to ion mill/ion scan and ion beam deposition . This role is critical for ensuring maximum tool uptime, reducing process scrap, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will manage a team of equipment engineers and technicians, coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance activities, and implement best practices to enhance equipment performance and reliability.

Key responsibilities include developing and executing strategies to minimize equipment downtime, analyzing failure data to identify root causes, and leading projects aimed at process optimization and cost reduction. The Sr. Equipment Manager will collaborate closely with process engineering and manufacturing to ensure all equipment meets operational and safety standards. Additionally, the manager will oversee personnel development, set clear performance expectations, and foster a culture of accountability and innovation within the wet process group.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead daily operations and maintenance of ion mill/ion scan and ion beam deposition tools

Monitor and drive reduction of equipment-induced scrap and yield loss through data-driven problem solving and corrective actions.

Manage, mentor, and develop a team of equipment engineers and technicians, including performance reviews and training plans.

Plan and execute equipment upgrades, retrofits, and capacity expansion projects in alignment with business needs.

Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for tool uptime, maintenance response, and cost savings initiatives.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support process changes, new technology introductions, and compliance with environmental, health, and safety requirements.

Drive continuous improvement culture by leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.

Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or related field preferred).Minimum 8 years+ of experience in semiconductor equipment engineering, with at least 3+ years in a people management role.

Additional Information Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s assigned sex at birth), age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status (including domestic partnership status), physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, protected medical and family care leave, Civil…