Component Engineer

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Component Engineer (Contract) to proactively manage component lifecycle risk across multiple hardware platforms. This role focuses on EOL/NRND risk identification, alternate component qualification, and BOM health management using tools such as Z2Data, Arena PLM, and Altium. The engineer will work closely with hardware, firmware/software, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to ensure continuity of supply and minimize disruptive redesigns.

This is a hands-on, technical role, not an administrative BOM function.

Key Responsibilities:

Component Lifecycle & Obsolescence Management

• Proactively monitor EOL, NRND, PCN, and LTB notifications using Z2Data (and similar tools)
• Identify components at risk before they impact production or new designs
• Maintain and periodically scrub BOMs for lifecycle health and supply risk
• Own component-related actions for sustaining engineering programs

Alternate Component Identification & Qualification

• Research and propose form-fit-function compatible alternates
• Perform technical suitability assessments (electrical, mechanical, thermal, compliance)
• Coordinate with hardware and firmware teams to evaluate impact of alternates
• Support qualification activities (documentation, testing requirements, supplier data)

BOM, PLM, and Change Management

• Create and maintain approved alternates and sourcing strategies in Arena PLM
• Author and manage ECRs/ECOs for:
  • Adding alternate components
  • Deprecating obsolete or high-risk parts
  • Updating compliance or sourcing data
• Ensure BOMs align across Altium (design) and Arena (release/manufacturing)

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain component-level compliance data (RoHS, REACH, etc.)
• Support product-level compliance needs by ensuring accurate component records
• Review and release component-related documentation as part of ECOs

Cross-Functional & Supplier Collaboration

• Work closely with:
  • Hardware engineering (schematics, PCB impact)
  • Firmware/software teams (pin/functionality changes)
  • Manufacturing and contract manufacturers (availability, substitutions)
• Interface with distributors and manufacturers when validating alternates

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or equivalent experience
• 5+ years experience as a Component Engineer, Sustaining Engineer, or similar role
• Demonstrated experience managing EOL/lifecycle risk in production hardware

Required Skills & Experience:

Component Engineering & Lifecycle

• Strong understanding of:
  • Passive and active components
  • Manufacturer part numbering and attributes
  • Lifecycle states (Active, NRND, EOL)
• Proven experience qualifying alternate components for released products

Tools & Systems

• Hands-on experience with Arena PLM (ECR/ECO workflows, alternates, sourcing)
• Experience using Z2Data or similar lifecycle intelligence tools
• Familiarity with Altium Designer or equivalent ECAD tools (read/review level)

Technical Competence

• Ability to assess alternate parts against:
  • Electrical specifications
  • Pin compatibility and package differences
  • Application-specific constraints
• Understanding of PCB design implications (footprints, derating, spacing)

Communication & Execution

• Clear written and verbal communication for ECOs and technical tradeoffs
• Comfortable working across engineering, operations, and supply chain teams
• Self-directed and proactive, able to identify risks without waiting for issues

Nice-to-Have (Not Required):

• Experience working with contract manufacturers
• Familiarity with medical, industrial, or regulated products
• Experience supporting multi-product sustaining portfolios