The R&D Engineer blends technical design, manufacturing process knowhow, and supplier/contract manufacturing management. You will write product specifications, produce manufacturing ready technical drawings, interpret inspection reports, and ensure global manufacturers produce cable to specification, on time and on budget. This role partners closely with Product Management, Sourcing, Operations and Quality. An engineering degree is preferred but not strictly required if the candidate has direct cable manufacturing experience or demonstrable experience interpreting cable designs.
Responsibilities
Specification & Technical Documentation
- Write clear, complete cable specifications covering electrical, mechanical, materials, environmental and performance requirements.
- Create and maintain manufacturing ready technical drawings and cross section schematics (dimensioned views, conductor geometry, layering, tolerances).
- Produce and control BOMs, test procedures, acceptance criteria and change notices.
Product Development, R&D & Testing
- Lead product development projects and research activities for low and medium voltage products and accessories.
- Design and execute samples, qualification testing, and reliability assessments.
- Partner with Product Management to identify gaps and opportunities; translate customer requirements into product technical requirements.
- Maintain control plans and inspection points during ramp and sustain phases.
Supplier Management
- Communicate technical requirements and drawings to suppliers; confirm tooling, process controls and documentation are in place.
- Qualify, manage and audit global contract manufacturers to ensure capability, traceability, and adherence to specifications.
- Drive corrective actions and continuous improvement with suppliers when nonconformances occur.
- Interpret supplier inspection and test reports (dimensional, electrical, environmental, HIPOT, continuity, resistance, etc.) and decide accept/reject, containment, and corrective actions.
- Support failure analyses; lead or contribute to root cause analyses and 8D responses.
- Ensure documentation and traceability meet internal and regulatory requirements.
Cross functional Collaboration & Commercial Support
- Work with Sourcing to evaluate material/process tradeoffs that affect cost, lead time and performance; provide technical justification during supplier discussions.
- Provide technical support to Sales and Marketing: technical datasheets, sell sheets, training, and customer visits to support launches.
- Represent Amphenol TPC at industry standards discussions and provide input for compliance to relevant standards (UL, CSA, as applicable).
