R&D Manufacturing Interface Engineer

ADB Safegate

Zaventem, Belgium

Mission:

The R&D Manufacturing Interface Engineer ensures that new product designs are optimized for manufacturability, cost-efficiency and quality, by closely integrating with both design engineering and supplier partners. This role drives innovation in manufacturing processes, supports supplier selection and onboarding, and champions robust test and traceability systems from concept through production.

Responsibilities:

Design for Manufacturing Integration

Work in close partnership with design engineers to embed manufacturability principles into new product designs from the earliest stages.

Component Selection & Lifecycle Management

Actively participate in component selection, considering lifecycle, supply chain robustness, and innovation opportunities, and ensure alignment with manufacturing capabilities.

Manufacturing Innovation & Supplier Collaboration

Engage suppliers to identify and implement new manufacturing technologies and process improvements; proactively educate R&D teams on manufacturability and industrialization best practices.

Cost Optimization

Analyze and optimize the cost structure of new designs, balancing quality, manufacturability, and long-term product value.

Change Management & Design Updates

Play a key role in the introduction of new designs and design changes, conveying R&D requirements and preferences to suppliers; provide input during supplier selection relevant to manufacturability.

Test Systems & Quality Assurance

Develop, implement, and monitor test benches, quality checks, and traceability systems in partnership with suppliers, ensuring product quality and compliance.

Supplier Relationship & Auditing

Maintain close contact with suppliers, conduct regular audits, and manage communication regarding design changes, quality issues, and continuous improvement.

NPI Support

Actively support the end-to-end New Product Introduction process, ensuring seamless transitions from prototype to full-scale production.

Skills/Qualification:

Competencies

Strong collaboration skills with cross-functional teams.
Deep knowledge of design for manufacturing and industrialization processes.
Excellent communicator and facilitator between R&D and manufacturing/suppliers.
Analytical, with a focus on cost, quality, and process improvement.
Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities.
Willing and able to travel frequently to suppliers and manufacturing sites.

Experience

Experience in design for manufacturing, NPI, or industrialization in a technology or manufacturing environment.
Proven track record in supplier engagement, process innovation, and cost optimization.
Familiarity with component/Material/Process selection, lifecycle management, and manufacturing process validation.