Senior Level Principal Manufacturing Engineer Jobs
Senior level principal manufacturing engineer jobs place seasoned engineers at the helm of complex production systems, process architecture, and cross-functional teams driving measurable operational outcomes. Most openings are on-site or hybrid across Science & Research, Distribution & Wholesale, and Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, with employers like Laborie, Nextern, and Astellas hiring at this level now.
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Showing 5 of 9+ Senior Level Principal Manufacturing Engineer jobs
DESCRIPTION
Amazon is seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Principal Manufacturing Engineer to lead the concept, design, build, and launch of production-scale final assembly production operations. This is a senior individual contributor role serving as the technical authority responsible for commissioning production facilities, deploying world-class assembly technologies, and establishing stable, scalable, and highly efficient production systems.
The ideal candidate will bring 12+ years of progressive experience in production-scale final assembly environments, with deep expertise in process engineering, facility startup, capital equipment deployment, production system design, and operational excellence. This individual must be capable of driving technical execution across cross-functional organizations while operating effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments with demanding schedules.
This role requires a combination of technical authority, influential leadership, strategic thinking, and hands-on problem-solving to support Amazon's manufacturing and operational objectives.
Key job responsibilities
-
Own the end-to-end manufacturing line concept, design, requirements, sizing/balancing/timing, material flow, vendor selection, equipment specification, automation strategy, installation, commissioning, rate demonstration, and handover to operations teams.
-
Own line requirements including layout, work content, cycle times, rates, headcount, and Capex.
-
Oversee detailed design of new manufacturing equipment; develop equipment specifications; identify vendors and manage the RFQ, selection, FAT, and deployment process.
-
Lead and manage project scope from concept through production launch. Own the handover process to sustaining teams.
-
Drive production readiness and operational performance metrics during launch and ramp-up phases, including safety, quality, throughput, OEE, scrap reduction, and cycle time optimization.
-
Partner with product design teams to incorporate DFM considerations, advocate for the simplest and most reliable processes, and iterate to enable production and cost targets.
-
Drive PFMEA and OEE considerations as far upstream in product development as possible. Think of the factory as a fully integrated product — best part/process is no part/process.
-
Densify, reduce non-value-add operations, and achieve significant improvements from one production iteration to the next.
-
Establish and standardize production processes, control plans, maintenance strategies, and operational documentation.
-
Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and data-driven problem-solving methodologies.
-
Lead strategic technical engagement with equipment OEMs, tooling suppliers, automation integrators, and key production partners.
-
Mentor and develop peers and junior engineers while fostering a culture of technical excellence, safety, and operational discipline.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
-
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline.
-
12+ years of direct manufacturing engineering experience in production-scale final assembly environments for complex electromechanical products.
-
Demonstrated success leading commissioning, startup, and production ramp-up of integrated assembly operations.
-
Deep expertise in automated assembly, including joining (welding, fastening, adhesives), conveyance, human-assisted automation, and automated assembly systems.
-
Strong experience in capital equipment strategy, production system design, vendor management, and facility startup.
-
Experience driving down manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving product quality.
-
Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt minimum; Black Belt preferred).
-
Proven ability to influence and drive execution across cross-functional teams in complex industrial environments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
-
Master's degree in Engineering or MBA.
-
Experience with electromechanical assembly (motors, actuators, consumer electronics, automotive, or similar).
-
Expertise in automation programming, machine vision, precision dispensing, press-fit assembly, or similar high-precision automated processes.
-
Experience supporting multi-site production operations, plant turnarounds, or new facility launches or expansions.
-
Prior experience acting as technical lead supporting production facility expansion projects.
-
Experience with fully integrated assembly, test, and packaging operations at scale.
-
Experience managing conflicting objectives, concurrent priorities, and highly-automated processes.
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
LOCATION
USA, MA, N.Reading - 163,400.00 - 221,000.00 USD annually
USA, TX, Austin - 163,400.00 - 221,000.00 USD annually
DESCRIPTION
Amazon is seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Principal Manufacturing Engineer to lead the concept, design, build, and launch of production-scale final assembly production operations. This is a senior individual contributor role serving as the technical authority responsible for commissioning production facilities, deploying world-class assembly technologies, and establishing stable, scalable, and highly efficient production systems.
The ideal candidate will bring 12+ years of progressive experience in production-scale final assembly environments, with deep expertise in process engineering, facility startup, capital equipment deployment, production system design, and operational excellence. This individual must be capable of driving technical execution across cross-functional organizations while operating effectively in fast-paced, dynamic environments with demanding schedules.
This role requires a combination of technical authority, influential leadership, strategic thinking, and hands-on problem-solving to support Amazon's manufacturing and operational objectives.
Key job responsibilities
-
Own the end-to-end manufacturing line concept, design, requirements, sizing/balancing/timing, material flow, vendor selection, equipment specification, automation strategy, installation, commissioning, rate demonstration, and handover to operations teams.
-
Own line requirements including layout, work content, cycle times, rates, headcount, and Capex.
-
Oversee detailed design of new manufacturing equipment; develop equipment specifications; identify vendors and manage the RFQ, selection, FAT, and deployment process.
-
Lead and manage project scope from concept through production launch. Own the handover process to sustaining teams.
-
Drive production readiness and operational performance metrics during launch and ramp-up phases, including safety, quality, throughput, OEE, scrap reduction, and cycle time optimization.
-
Partner with product design teams to incorporate DFM considerations, advocate for the simplest and most reliable processes, and iterate to enable production and cost targets.
-
Drive PFMEA and OEE considerations as far upstream in product development as possible. Think of the factory as a fully integrated product — best part/process is no part/process.
-
Densify, reduce non-value-add operations, and achieve significant improvements from one production iteration to the next.
-
Establish and standardize production processes, control plans, maintenance strategies, and operational documentation.
-
Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and data-driven problem-solving methodologies.
-
Lead strategic technical engagement with equipment OEMs, tooling suppliers, automation integrators, and key production partners.
-
Mentor and develop peers and junior engineers while fostering a culture of technical excellence, safety, and operational discipline.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
-
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline.
-
12+ years of direct manufacturing engineering experience in production-scale final assembly environments for complex electromechanical products.
-
Demonstrated success leading commissioning, startup, and production ramp-up of integrated assembly operations.
-
Deep expertise in automated assembly, including joining (welding, fastening, adhesives), conveyance, human-assisted automation, and automated assembly systems.
-
Strong experience in capital equipment strategy, production system design, vendor management, and facility startup.
-
Experience driving down manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving product quality.
-
Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt minimum; Black Belt preferred).
-
Proven ability to influence and drive execution across cross-functional teams in complex industrial environments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
-
Master's degree in Engineering or MBA.
-
Experience with electromechanical assembly (motors, actuators, consumer electronics, automotive, or similar).
-
Expertise in automation programming, machine vision, precision dispensing, press-fit assembly, or similar high-precision automated processes.
-
Experience supporting multi-site production operations, plant turnarounds, or new facility launches or expansions.
-
Prior experience acting as technical lead supporting production facility expansion projects.
-
Experience with fully integrated assembly, test, and packaging operations at scale.
-
Experience managing conflicting objectives, concurrent priorities, and highly-automated processes.
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
LOCATION
USA, MA, N.Reading - 163,400.00 - 221,000.00 USD annually
USA, TX, Austin - 163,400.00 - 221,000.00 USD annually
See All 9 Senior Level Principal Manufacturing Engineer Jobs
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Find JobsSenior Level Principal Manufacturing Engineer Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Science & Research
- Distribution & Wholesale
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Energy
Senior Level Principal Manufacturing Engineer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a senior level principal manufacturing engineer job?
Employers at this level look for engineers who have owned end-to-end manufacturing processes, not just contributed to them. Demonstrating that you have driven cost reduction, yield improvement, or capital project delivery at scale matters more than credentials alone. Candidates who can show mentorship of junior engineers and cross-functional influence with operations, quality, and supply chain teams consistently stand out in the selection process.
Which companies hire senior level principal manufacturing engineers?
Companies hiring senior level principal manufacturing engineers right now include Laborie, Nextern, and Astellas, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. At this level, hiring tends to concentrate in large-scale manufacturers, aerospace and defense contractors, medical device companies, and industrial technology firms with complex, high-volume production environments.
Are there remote senior level principal manufacturing engineer jobs?
Yes, though most roles at this level require significant on-site presence given the hands-on nature of the work. About 0% of senior level principal manufacturing engineer openings are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with hybrid arrangements most common for roles focused on systems design, NPI strategy, or program oversight rather than direct floor-level execution.
What makes a principal manufacturing engineer role senior level?
Senior level principal manufacturing engineer roles are defined by scope and ownership rather than task execution. Engineers at this stage set technical direction for manufacturing systems, own the outcomes of major capital or process improvement programs, and serve as the go-to authority for resolving systemic production challenges. Mentoring mid-level engineers and influencing decisions across quality, supply chain, and product development are expected parts of the job, not optional additions.
Which industries hire the most senior level principal manufacturing engineers?
Senior Level principal manufacturing engineer roles concentrate in Science & Research, Distribution & Wholesale, and Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. These sectors share a common need for engineers who can lead high-stakes process development, manage complex supply chains, and maintain rigorous quality and compliance standards at production scale.