What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research And Development Manager position at Spectrum Recruiting Solutions?
PROCESS DEVELOPMENT ENGINEERING MANAGER/R&D MANAGER
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Reports to: General Manager
Compensation: $180 - $200K bonus
We’ve built our reputation as an industry leader by delivering world-class precision metal finishing solutions for over 50 years. We proudly serve a variety of industries including aerospace, defense, medical, semiconductor, and other high-tech industries that demand uncompromising quality and reliability. Our team is dedicated to craftsmanship, innovation, and exceeding customer expectations – every component, every time.
Your Role:
As the Process Development Engineering Manager, you’ll lead the development and optimization of metal plating processes for new and existing components. This highly technical and customer-facing role blends engineering depth with problem-solving and collaboration. You’ll work directly with clients to understand part requirements, design and validate plating processes, and ensure a seamless transition to production.
What You’ll Do:
- Partner with clients and internal teams to understand component design, performance goals, and surface finishing requirements.
- Design, test, and validate metal plating processes tailored to semiconductor applications.
- Lead process development projects from concept through qualification and production handoff.
- Troubleshoot process or product issues and drive root-cause analysis and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with productions, quality, and engineering to ensure scalability, consistency, and yield
- optimization.
- Manage and mentor a small team in process development and technical problem solving.
- Document process parameters, control plans, and technical data for internal and customer use.
- Serve as the technical liaison for customers, providing expert guidance and communication throughout
- development cycles.
What You’ll Bring:
- Bachelor’s degree (Master’s or higher preferred) in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
- 7 years of experience in process or product development within metal finishing, plating, or semiconductor manufacturing.
- Proven ability to design and optimize chemical or electroplating processes.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and project management skills.
- Excellent communication and client interaction skills; comfortable leading technical discussions.
- Hands-on approach and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Salary : $180,000 - $200,000