Manager - NPI & Engineering

Job Description – Manager - NPI and Engineering

Role Summary

The NPI Manager is responsible for leading the end-to-end new product introduction process from concept to mass production. This role ensures that new products are launched on time, within budget, and meet quality standards. The NPI Manager drives cross-functional alignment between design, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams while mitigating risks and ensuring smooth transition into production.

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Key Responsibilities

1. NPI Program Leadership

• Lead and manage multiple NPI projects from design transfer through production ramp-up
• Define project scope, timelines, milestones, and deliverables
• Drive execution of phase-gate processes (e.g., EVT, DVT, PVT or APQP stages)
• Ensure on-time product launch with high quality and cost targets

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2. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Act as the central point of contact between:

  • Manufacturing/Operations
  • Quality and Supplier Quality
  • Supply Chain and Procurement

• Facilitate regular project reviews and stakeholder communication

• Resolve cross-functional conflicts and remove execution bottlenecks

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3. Manufacturing Readiness

• Ensure production line readiness, tooling, fixtures, and test equipment availability
• Validate manufacturing processes and capacity planning
• Drive DFM/DFA implementation and manufacturability improvements
• Oversee pilot builds and production ramp-up activities

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4. Quality & Risk Management

• Lead risk assessment using DFMEA / PFMEA methodologies
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for NPI issues
• Monitor yield performance during pilot and initial production

7. Documentation & Governance

• Ensure accurate documentation including:

  • BOM (Bill of Materials)
  • Engineering drawings and change management (ECO/ECN)
  • Process documentation and SOPs

• Maintain NPI dashboards, metrics, and status reports for leadership

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8. Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop NPI engineers and cross-functional team members
• Drive a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration
• Support hiring and capability development within the NPI team

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Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering
• Master’s degree (MBA or MTech) is an advantage

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Experience

• 10–15 years of experience in product engineering, manufacturing, or NPI
• Minimum 3–5 years in a leadership or managerial role
• Strong experience managing complex product launches

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Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of:

  • NPI lifecycle and phase-gate processes
  • DFM / DFA / DFX principles
  • Manufacturing processes (machining, moulding, assembly, etc.)
  • GD&T and engineering fundamentals

• Experience with:

  • APQP, PPAP, FMEA, Control Plans
  • PLM/ERP systems (Teamcenter, Windchill, SAP, etc.)

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma is preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Production / Industrial Engineering
• Master’s degree (MBA or MTech) is an advantage