Component Engineer

Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite)Department: EngineeringReports To: Director of Engineering / Engineering ManagerEmployment Type: Full-Time, ExemptAbout Digital Dynamics Inc.Digital Dynamics Inc. (DDI) is a 100% employee-owned technology company specializing in precision motion control, automation, and advanced electromechanical systems for the semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing industries. As an ESOP organization, we empower every employee-owner to think and act like an owner—driving accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement across the business.Position SummaryThe Component Engineer is responsible for managing the selection, qualification, lifecycle, and reliability of electronic, electrical, and mechanical components used throughout DDI’s product portfolio. This role works closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, and Suppliers to ensure component availability, performance, compliance, and cost-effectiveness throughout the product lifecycle.The Component Engineer plays a key role in mitigating component obsolescence risks, identifying alternate sources, supporting new product development, and ensuring long-term product sustainability.Key ResponsibilitiesComponent Management & Lifecycle SupportManage component selection, qualification, and approval processes for new and existing products.Monitor component lifecycle status and proactively identify obsolescence risks.Develop and implement mitigation strategies for obsolete or end-of-life components.Evaluate and qualify alternate components and second-source suppliers.Supply Chain & Supplier SupportCollaborate with Supply Chain and Purchasing to address component shortages and allocation challenges.Work directly with suppliers and manufacturers to obtain technical data, lifecycle information, and qualification documentation.Support supplier qualification and component sourcing initiatives.Analyze market trends and supply chain risks impacting component availability.Engineering SupportProvide technical guidance on component selection based on performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability.Support New Product Introduction (NPI) efforts through component research and qualification activities.Participate in design reviews and recommend components that align with product requirements and long-term support strategies.Review and maintain component libraries, approved vendor lists (AVL), and engineering databases.Reliability, Compliance & QualitySupport failure analysis investigations related to component issues.Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions when component failures occur.Ensure components meet regulatory, environmental, and customer compliance requirements (RoHS, REACH, Conflict Minerals, etc.).Partner with Quality Engineering on supplier quality concerns and corrective actions.Documentation & Change ManagementCreate and maintain component specifications, qualification reports, and technical documentation.Support Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) related to component substitutions and updates.Maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs), approved manufacturer lists, and engineering records.Continuous ImprovementDevelop and improve component engineering processes, standards, and best practices.Identify opportunities for cost reduction while maintaining product quality and reliability.Promote an employee-owner mindset through accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related technical field.5+ years of experience in Component Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering, or a related discipline.Experience managing component lifecycle, obsolescence, and supplier relationships.Knowledge of electronic, electrical, and electromechanical components.Experience with BOM management, ECO processes, and PLM/ERP systems.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.Preferred QualificationsExperience in semiconductor capital equipment, automation, or high-tech manufacturing environments.Familiarity with industry standards and compliance requirements including RoHS, REACH, and Conflict Minerals.Experience using component databases and lifecycle management tools.Knowledge of reliability testing, failure analysis, and supplier quality processes.Experience supporting products throughout their full lifecycle from development through end-of-life.Why Join DDIAt Digital Dynamics Inc., you'll become an employee-owner in a growing technology company where your contributions directly impact our success. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the ability to work on innovative products supporting leading semiconductor and advanced manufacturing customers.DDI is committed to diversity in its workforce, including Equal Employment Opportunity for Minorities, Females, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.