Principal PCBA Test Engineer

We are looking for an exceptional Principal PCBA Test Engineer to lead in the design, development and documentation of automated test systems and test processes for electronic assemblies (incl flying probe, AOI, 5DX, and ICT). This role ensures the reliability, performance, and manufacturability of PCBAs through rigorous testing strategies and collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams. As a Principal PCBA Test Engineer, you will utilize your skills in electrical/electronic PCBA design & documentation practice, DfM / DfT analysis, and manufacturing process qualification to support our high mix, low volume production sites and provide frontline technical support to the PCBA CMs in troubleshooting MKS PCBA subassembly and test system related issues.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, supply chain, operations) to ensure PCBA assemblies meet design and quality standards.
• Define and implement PCBA test strategies, including DFM/DFT reviews during NPI.
• Design, develop, and document automated test systems, fixtures, and software for contract manufacturers.
• Validate and troubleshoot automated test systems and UUT issues using LabVIEW/Test Stand.
• Support global contract manufacturers with remote training, troubleshooting, and process optimization.
• Lead ICT development and qualification of test fixtures, equipment, and software for production environments.
• Analyze test data, drive root-cause analysis, and continuously improve test coverage, fault isolation, and throughput.
• Maintain revision control, documentation, and review supplier changes (PCNs, Gage R&R) for test processes.
• Conduct DFM/DFT reviews and oversee supplier DFM reviews for NPI. Conduct Design for Testability (DFT) DFM / DFT reviews during New Product Introduction (NPI).
• Participate in design reviews and ensure adherence to engineering standards and best practices (process/chemistries).

• Designs, develops, and implements cost‑effective methods of testing and troubleshooting systems and equipment.
• Prepares test and diagnostic programs, designs test fixtures and equipment, and completes specifications and procedures for new products.

• Requires a BS in Electrical Engineering.
• 8+ years’ experience in PCBA functional test program set (hardware & software) design and test automation, ideally in a high mix, low volume environment.
• Subject matter expertise in PCBA manufacturing processes, SMT, PCBA test methodologies & inspection, PCBA design and board chemistry. In‑depth knowledge of IPC standards related to PCBA manufacturing.
• Experience with schematic capture and analysis applications such as Mentor Graphics/PADS, and OrCAD are required.
• Experience with automated test system design, test fixture design for low‑noise analog PCB’s and high‑speed digital PCB’s and software development is required.
• Experience with DFT (Design for Test) and DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles is required.
• Experience managing vendors and external design partners, as well as providing training and technical support to contract manufacturers (CMs) both onsite and remotely, is required.
• Ability to create detailed project plans is required.

• Perform activities such as sitting, standing, or typing for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Regularly requires good manual dexterity and coordination.
• Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
• Operates in a professional office and/or laboratory/manufacturing environment.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery.
• Must observe documents and details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards, including handling mechanical and electrical hardware, high voltage, gas, water, and heat.
• Noise level in the work environment is usually average.

This position is an on‑site position and the candidate must be within commutable distance to our location in Wilmington, MA
. Relocation benefits are not available for this position.

We are interested in qualified candidates eligible to…