Principal Engineer, Equipment Engineering

Google Chrome Microsoft Edge Apple Safari Mozilla Firefox Principal Engineer, Equipment EngineeringFull-timeJob Type (exemption status): Exempt position - Please see related compensation & benefits details belowBusiness Function: Manufacturing Equipment EngineeringWork Location: Bayan Lepas PN2--LOC_WDT_MY0704Company 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 Principal Equipment Engineer specializing in sputter media manufacturing, you will serve as the technical authority and strategic leader for sputtering equipment, manufacturing technology, and engineering innovation within the organization. You will lead advanced equipment engineering initiatives, drive long-term technology roadmaps, and provide expert-level support for equipment reliability, manufacturing excellence, and next-generation HDD product development. This role requires strong technical expertise in sputtering systems, vacuum technology, automation, and advanced manufacturing processes, along with the ability to influence cross-functional organizations, mentor engineering teams, and lead large-scale strategic projects across multiple manufacturing areas.   ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Lead strategic equipment engineering initiatives to improve equipment reliability, manufacturing efficiency, OEE performance, and long-term operational sustainability.Lead complex equipment troubleshooting and advanced root cause analysis for critical manufacturing issues, implementing robust corrective and preventive actions.Develop and standardize best-in-class engineering practices, maintenance strategies, and equipment performance optimization methodologies across manufacturing operations.Lead major equipment upgrades, system redesigns, automation integration, and machine conversion programs to enhance manufacturing capability and productivity.Provide technical leadership for new equipment development, factory expansion projects, equipment qualification, commissioning, and production ramp activities.Collaborate closely with Process Engineering, Yield Engineering, Production, Quality, Facilities, and Global Engineering teams to achieve manufacturing and technology objectives.Drive predictive maintenance, reliability engineering, and data analytics initiatives using SPC, equipment monitoring systems, and advanced failure analysis techniques.Lead engineering evaluations for new technologies, automation solutions, AI-driven manufacturing applications, and Industry 4.0 initiatives to improve operational performance.Establish equipment standards, technical specifications, engineering governance, and operational guidelines to ensure consistency across manufacturing operations.Provide expert guidance in vacuum systems, plasma generation, sputtering processes, automation controls, robotics, and equipment architecture optimization.Lead supplier technical engagements, OEM partnerships, and external engineering collaborations to support technology development, equipment enhancement, and problem resolution.Mentor and develop engineers, technical specialists, and engineering leaders by strengthening technical competencies, leadership capabilities, and knowledge-sharing culture.Drive cost reduction initiatives through equipment optimization, spare part management, energy efficiency...