Principal Engineer, Test Equipment

As a Test Equipment Engineer, you will be responsible for sustaining, optimizing, and continuously improving the testing equipment for sputtered disks used in hard disk media manufacturing. This role supports high-volume manufacturing by ensuring stable test performance, strong equipment capability, and compliance with quality standards. You will also be responsible for test capacity planning and expansion, monitoring critical parameters related to test capacity and PPH. In addition, you will drive overall test-related projects to meet departmental objectives. The role includes managing equipment transfer and buyoff for new hardware and software enhancements, as well as installing and setting up test equipment such as testers, robotic automation systems, bagging systems, and conveyors. Ensuring test measurement accuracy and repeatability is also a key responsibility. You will work closely with Operations, Process, Quality, and R&D teams to drive data-driven improvements and support new technology introductions. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Troubleshoot and resolve test cell equipment issues to maintain product quality and manufacturing throughput. Transfer and implement test-related projects into production. Conduct investigations for quality incidents related to test equipment, and support root cause analysis and corrective actions. Monitor key equipment input variables (KPIVs) using tools such as the KPIV database, maintenance logs, and the Digital Preventive Maintenance system. Drive and support equipment and process upgrades, as well as continuous improvement initiatives, to enhance performance and efficiency. Improve and optimize test equipment to enhance quality, utilization, and PPH (Parts Per Hour). Act as an upskilling trainer for test equipment and processes by providing technical training and guidance to team members. Ensure compliance with ISO standards and proper documentation practices. Support the setup and implementation of new measurement methods required by the R&D and test process teams. Perform measurement results (KPOV) analysis in PN and coach process engineers and technicians to strengthen their knowledge of instrument methods and equipment capability. Follow all safety and health regulations and workplace requirements. REQUIRED: Preferable with Advanced/Higher/Graduate in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics or related field). Minimum of 4-5 years’ working experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in process, data crunching, data monitoring & data analysis. Understanding of core engineering principles and concepts relevant to the specific engineering discipline with analytical skill. Ability to analyze problems, develop solutions, and implement them effectively. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, working knowledge of Minitab, and a basic understanding of Visual Basic programming and statistical concepts. Basic skills in managing projects, including planning, execution, and reporting. Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas and collaborate. Ability to work effectively in a team environment, contributing to group projects and discussions. Flexibility to learn new concepts and technologies and adapt to changing work environments. PREFERRED: Ability to evaluate situations critically and make informed decisions. Careful consideration of details in design and implementation to ensure quality and accuracy. Skills in managing time effectively to meet project deadlines and commitments. SKILLS: Demonstrates a strong desire to learn and proactively takes initiative in seeking knowledge and opportunities for growth. Demonstrates a strong work ethic, responsibility, and accountability in carrying out all tasks. WD 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. WD 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 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. Notice To Candidates: Please be aware that WD and its subsidiaries will never request payment as a condition for applying for a position or receiving an offer of employment. Should you encounter any such requests, please report it immediately to WD Ethics Helpline or email . WD 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.