Senior Manufacturing Engineer en AEye, Inc

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer with strong hands-on expertise in prototype builds and new product introduction (NPI) within the LiDAR and optoelectronics space. This role is central to managing our low-volume prototype production at our pilot facility and leading the technology transfer to external EMS partners. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced start-up environment, bridging design and manufacturing, while ensuring process readiness, product quality, and seamless scaling.

Key Responsibilities

• Prototype & Pilot Line Leadership
• Oversee execution of low-volume production at the Pleasanton pilot facility.
• Supervise and mentor manufacturing technicians.
• Serve as the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) with authority to evaluate, monitor, and enforce laser hazard controls.
• Manufacturing Transfer & External Collaboration
• Drive transfer of build processes from pilot to contract manufacturers (CMs/EMS).
• Collaborate with EMS partners to establish stable, scalable, and cost-effective manufacturing processes.
• Ensure alignment with project milestones for C-sample readiness and beyond.
• Process Development & Documentation
• Create and maintain work instructions, SOPs, calibration and assembly guides, and validation reports.
• Issue and manage MCOs/ECOs for process and product changes.
• Implement and manage MES systems for traceability and control.
• Continuous Improvement
• Identify and implement improvements in processes, tooling, and test methods to enhance quality, safety, and efficiency.
• Support design-for-manufacturing (DFM) input early in the product lifecycle.
• Support implementation of a resilient global supply chain working closely with Aeye team members
• Manage MRB (Material Review Board) for discrepant materials and process issues.

Required Qualifications

 Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical, or related).

• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering roles, ideally across both start-up and mid-size companies.
• Proven leadership experience in highly complex technology products life cycle from design to NPI and volume manufacturing.
• Deep knowledge of manufacturing processes involving MEMS, PCBs, optics, plastics, and metal castings/machining.
• Proficiency with MRP/ERP, MES, and QMS systems.
• Strong ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, specs, and technical documentation.
• Excellent cross-functional communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Certified Laser Safety Officer or equivalent training/experience.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally.
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
• Onsite a minimum of 3-4 days per week at our offices in Pleasanton, CA.

 Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with LiDAR or optical sensing products.
• Exposure to automotive industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001, IATF 16949).
• Experience working in high-pressure start-up environments with rapid iteration cycles.
• Working with major Tier-1 /EMS vendors in far east such
• Six Sigma certification.
• SolidWorks certification or equivalent CAD expertise.

Annual Base Salary Range: 135K-160K