Principal Process Development Engineer

Summary/Purpose
Metalworking (machining, grinding, and finishing) is a core technology within JTEKT. This position frequently works in a project leadership role on high-priority metalworking development projects that directly impact plant productivity and product quality. Many assignments involve leading-edge technologies where new processes must be created or existing processes significantly improved to create a competitive advantage. A high percentage of the work focuses on process development to improve production rates, part quality, and enable new product development.


Essential Duties and Accountabilities:
• Investigate and recommend new metalworking processes and disseminate information throughout the organization
• Identify best practices for existing metalworking processes and facilitate implementation across global operations
• Serve as project leader or key technical contributor on major metalworking-related projects
• Lead machining and grinding process development for new product launches, from concept through production ramp-up
• Support cost reduction and productivity improvement through tooling strategy, cycle time optimization, scrap reduction, and yield improvement
• Develop and optimize CNC turning and milling processes for high-volume production
• Develop and optimize centerless and non-centerless grinding processes, including wheel, spindle, and dressing strategy
• Design and validate robust work-holding concepts to ensure repeatable, capable production processes
• Apply GD&T expertise to process design, datum strategy, and tolerance capability to ensure production feasibility
• Conduct process capability studies, analyze statistical results, and implement improvements
• Troubleshoot complex machining and grinding issues related to tooling, vibration, thermal effects, and process stability
• Develop training programs and support plant personnel in the operation of new or improved manufacturing systems
• Support internal manufacturing teams and suppliers during launch and process improvement activities
• Follow JTEKT quality gate systems, including PFMEA, process documentation, and capability confirmation
• Travel to JTEKT manufacturing plants and suppliers to resolve critical technical issues
• Operate independently with minimal supervision to achieve objectives

Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience developing new or significantly improved manufacturing processes
• Deep technical understanding of machining, grinding, and finishing processes
• Strong mechanical aptitude with working knowledge of electronics and sensor technologies
• Comfortable working in manufacturing environments and collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Experience with equipment standards, metrology, and diagnostic tools
• Experience with data acquisition systems (power monitoring, acoustics, accelerometers)
• Proficiency with SolidWorks. Experience with Mastercam is a plus

Education and Experience:
• Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering degree (BSME or MSME)
• Associate degree or technical certification acceptable with demonstrated advanced machining and grinding expertise
• 8+ years of diverse metalworking experience in machining and/or grinding
• Experience manufacturing automotive driveline or precision rotating components (e.g., full and half shafts, CVJs, bearings)
• Experience with Electronic Power Steering (EPS) or Electronic Brake systems preferred
• Experience supporting high-volume automotive production environments
• Experience participating in PFMEA, Control Plan development, and production readiness activities
• Experience working with global manufacturing teams and equipment suppliers

Work Environment/Physical Demands:
• Work is primarily performed in an office environment with periodic exposure to manufacturing areas requiring appropriate personal protective equipment. Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs may be required.
• Domestic and occasional international travel required, typically 10–30% depending on project phase, with higher travel during new launches and reduced travel during steady-state operations.