Position Summary
The Associate Component Engineer supports component-level testing, analysis, and evaluation activities for surgical instrument components and assemblies. This role is responsible for executing detailed mechanical testing, developing and maintaining technical work instructions, collecting and analyzing test data, and communicating findings to engineering teams and suppliers.
The successful candidate will work closely with Design Engineering, Supplier Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Quality teams to evaluate component performance, support tooling qualifications, and investigate product-related issues. This is a hands-on role requiring strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to perform repetitive testing activities while maintaining high levels of accuracy and data integrity.
This position is based 100% onsite in Sunnyvale, California and requires daily work in a laboratory environment using ergonomically designed testing workstations and equipment.
Key Responsibilities
Execute detailed component and assembly-level testing according to engineering protocols and test methods.
Set up, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain mechanical test fixtures, force measurement systems, and laboratory equipment.
Collect, document, and organize test data using spreadsheets, databases, and laboratory tracking systems.
Perform basic data analysis to identify trends, variation, anomalies, and potential performance concerns.
Generate clear summaries, charts, and technical reports to support engineering decision-making.
Author, revise, and maintain technical work instructions, test procedures, and equipment operating instructions.
Support qualification of new and replacement tooling through component-level testing and analysis.
Evaluate component interactions across multiple configurations to assess product performance and manufacturing variation.
Collaborate with engineers to support root cause investigations and corrective action activities.
Communicate testing progress, observations, results, and open issues with local and remote cross-functional engineering teams.
Interface directly with suppliers to coordinate testing activities, communicate results, and support issue resolution.
Maintain laboratory organization, calibration records, equipment readiness, and compliance with quality requirements.
Follow all applicable safety, quality system, and documentation requirements.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or another technical discipline.
Strong technical aptitude and ability to understand mechanical systems and component interactions.
Experience with data collection, data entry, and basic analytical techniques.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including data organization, charting, and basic statistical analysis.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to write clear technical work instructions and procedural documentation.
Ability to communicate effectively with remote teams and external suppliers.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.
Comfortable performing repetitive hands-on testing activities for extended periods.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting engineering laboratories, manufacturing operations, product development, quality engineering, supplier engineering, or validation testing.
Basic understanding of statistics, including concepts such as normal distributions, normality assessment, and process capability.
Familiarity with Cp, Cpk, and basic statistical data interpretation.
Understanding of fundamental mechanical engineering concepts including force, friction, tolerance stack-up, dimensional variation, and component interactions.
Experience using laboratory or metrology equipment such as force gauges, calipers, digital indicators, test fixtures, or data acquisition systems.
Experience developing test methods, work instructions, or engineering documentation.
Physical Requirements
Ability to perform repetitive testing and assembly activities throughout the workday.
Frequent sitting, standing, reaching, and handling of components and test equipment.
Ability to safely operate laboratory and testing equipment.
Ability to use computers and data entry systems for extended periods.
Ability to lift and move components, fixtures, and testing equipment as required.
Ability to work effectively in an ergonomically designed laboratory environment.
Key Competencies
Technical Curiosity
Attention to Detail
Data Integrity
Mechanical Aptitude
Problem Solving
Written Technical Communication
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Supplier Engagement
Organization and Planning
Continuous Improvement
