Staff Engineer, Hardware Development Engineering (Tribology Characterization and Test Development)

Google Chrome Microsoft Edge Apple Safari Mozilla Firefox Staff Engineer, Hardware Development Engineering (Tribology Characterization and Test Development)Full-timeJob Type (exemption status): Exempt position - Please see related compensation & benefits details belowBusiness Function: Hardware DevelopmentWork Location: Biñan HICAP Office--LOC_HGST_PHL01Company DescriptionWD 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.Job DescriptionAs a Staff Engineer in the Spacing Control and Integration group, you will support hard disk drive development by executing and designing tests to evaluate spacing, tribology, and reliability. You will analyze data, generate reports, and lead technicians while overseeing the operation of advanced characterization and metrology tools. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to collaborate across teams and drive improvements through test innovation and data automation.Job Responsibilities and Role Accountabilities:Plan and execute tests and experiments to evaluate the performance of new HDD designs using cutting-edge spacing characterization, tribology, and metrology tools.Apply statistical analysis to interpret experimental data and derive meaningful insights.Generate comprehensive reports summarizing test results and findings.Provide recommendations for design improvements based on experimental data.Develop automation scripts to streamline data processing and report generation.Lead projects and tests to ensure completion within committed timelines.Oversee daily tester operations, ensuring proper functionality, and troubleshoot any issues that arise.Develop and refine test methodologies to analyze and characterize unique and evolving HDD designs.Identify and resolve system-related challenges and limitations.Collaborate with global counterparts in planning and executing spacing characterization initiatives.Perform other duties as assigned.QualificationsEducation and Work Experience:Master’s degree in Applied Physics, Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, or any related field, with atleast 3 years of professional experience in tribology, physical characterization, and metrology. ORMaster’s degree in any related field with a strong understanding of Physics or Materials Science fundamentals, 3 of professional experience in tribology, physical characterization, and metrology. ORBachelor’s degree in Applied Physics, Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, or any related field, with atleast 5 years of professional experience in tribology, physical characterization, and metrology.Industry exposure in the Semiconductor or Electronics manufacturing is highly preferred.Tools, System, Application and Technology Requirements:Proficiency in any programming language particularly Python.Intermediate skills in statistical tools particularly JMP and Minitab.Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office Application particularly Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI.Skills and Competency Requirements:Strong understanding of electronics, physics, materials, and magnetic theory fundamentals.Strong problem-solving, technical writing, and oral communication skills.Direct experience in HDD or HGA-disk tribology is highly preferred.Direct experience in HDD / magnetic head test engineering is highly...