What are the responsibilities and job description for the Process Engineering Manager position at Pioneer Circuits, Inc.?
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About Pioneer Circuits
Since its establishment in 1981, Pioneer Circuits has been leading the way in technology solutions for mission-critical systems. As the leading, privately held U.S. manufacturer of innovative high-performance flexible circuit boards, we are dedicated to the design, production, and assembly of advanced printed circuit board assembly (PCBAs) technology solutions.
We develop cutting-edge solutions that explore new frontiers, serve and protect our armed forces and allies, safeguard national security against evolving threats, and propel advancements in hypersonic technology.
Our customers include some of the largest aerospace and defense companies like RTX, Lockheed Martin, GE Aerospace, NASA, JPL, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing.
About the Opportunity:
We are seeking a results-driven Process Engineering Manager to lead and develop cross-functional engineering teams across our PCB fabrication and assembly operations. This high-impact position reports directly to the Vice President and is responsible for managing key engineering functions in manufacturing and assembly.
This is a highly visible leadership role offering the opportunity to shape our engineering strategy, improve manufacturing performance, support technical customer engagement, and build a strong succession pipeline for future senior leadership roles.
What You’ll Do:
Leadership & People Development
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers and senior technical staff across process, assembly, and applications disciplines.
- Establish clear performance expectations and develop team members through coaching, feedback, and targeted development plans.
- Build a culture of ownership, continuous learning, and accountability.
- Oversee process development, optimization, and troubleshooting across PCB fabrication and assembly operations.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing yields, reducing rework and scrap, improving throughput, and ensuring production stability.
- Collaborate with production and quality teams to resolve recurring technical issues and implement short term and long-term corrective actions.
- Work closely with the VP and other department leaders (Production, Quality, Planning, Sales) to align engineering priorities with business objectives.
- Support capital investment and capability expansion projects, including equipment upgrades and process automation.
- Support the sales and business development teams with technical content, problem-solving, and relationship-building.
- Represent engineering in cross-functional meetings and strategic planning sessions.
- Ensure engineering processes, documentation, and work instructions are maintained and aligned with IPC standards and customer requirements.
- Drive consistency in engineering practices across departments and product lines.
- Ensure compliance with internal procedures and industry certifications.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Manufacturing, or related field) or equivalent technical experience.
- Minimum of 7 years’ experience in PCB manufacturing or electronics assembly, including at Demonstrated success managing cross-functional engineering teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Deep understanding of PCB fabrication and/or assembly processes.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
- Effective communicator with experience interacting with customers and cross-functional teams.
- Familiarity with IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-600, IPC-6012, IPC-2221).
- 3 years in a leadership or supervisory engineering role.
- Experience supporting high-reliability products in regulated industries (Aerospace, Defense).
- Experience leading applications engineering or technical customer support functions.
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other structured continuous improvement methodologies.
- Proficiency in engineering tools (CAD, CAM, PCB design software), ERP systems, and quality systems.
- Direct impact and visibility with executive leadership
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Stable, growing company with strong customer base
- Opportunity to lead technical transformation and modernization efforts
- Culture that values innovation, mentorship, and collaboration
We recognize that top candidates are often employed elsewhere and not actively seeking a change. All inquiries will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality.
California Pay Range: $108,000 USD - $140,000 USD
The actual compensation offered is based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and other relevant business considerations.
Pioneer Circuits provides a comprehensive benefits package for all full-time roles, encompassing healthcare, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents. Additionally, employees enjoy paid vacation, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan company match, along with various voluntary benefits options.
This is an ITAR-controlled facility. As such, all applicants must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Employment eligibility will be verified through the E-Verify system as part of the hiring process.
Pioneer Circuits is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Salary : $108,000 - $140,000