Key skills
RAssemblyRisk Management
About this role
Job Description – NPI Engineer
Role Summary
The NPI Engineer is responsible for leading the mechanical aspect of new product introduction from concept through production launch. This role ensures product designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet quality and timeline requirements. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams including design, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain to ensure a smooth product transition into mass production.
Key Responsibilities
1. Product Development & Design Support
- Work with R&D/design teams to review mechanical designs for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA)
- Provide inputs on materials, tolerances, and design optimization
- Support prototype builds and validation testing
- Identify and resolve design-related issues before production
2. New Product Introduction (NPI) Execution
- Drive NPI activities from prototype to pilot runs and mass production
- Develop and execute NPI project timelines, milestones, and deliverables
- Coordinate engineering builds (EVT, DVT, PVT stages where applicable)
- Ensure readiness of manufacturing processes prior to launch
3. Manufacturing Process Development
- Define and validate assembly processes, tooling, fixtures, and work instructions
- Collaborate with production teams to establish efficient manufacturing workflows
- Conduct process capability studies and implement improvements
4. Supplier & Component Management
- Work with suppliers to develop and qualify new components
- Support supplier selection, tooling validation, and PPAP submissions
- Ensure parts meet design specifications, quality, and cost targets
5. Quality & Risk Management
- Participate in DFMEA / PFMEA and risk mitigation activities
- Support root cause analysis and corrective actions for NPI issues
- Ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements
6. Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain complete NPI documentation: BOM, drawings, change requests (ECO/ECN)
- Track project status, risks, and key metrics
- Prepare reports and updates for stakeholders and management
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Experience
- 5–8 years of experience in mechanical engineering, preferably in NPI or product development
- Experience in manufacturing or high-volume production environments preferred
Technical Skills
- Strong knowledge of mechanical design fundamentals
- Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, NX, etc.)
- Experience with:
- DFM / DFA principles
- GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing)
- Material selection & manufacturing processes (machining, injection moulding, sheet metal, casting)
- Familiarity with:
- APQP, PPAP, FMEA methodologies
- Root cause analysis techniques (8D, Fishbone, etc.)