Mechanical Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mechanical Design Manager

Company: Lumentum

Location: China - Dongguan (Changan Town)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: 2025-10-27

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and execute comprehensive 2D and 3D mechanical design initiatives for advanced tooling and fixtures, crucial for manufacturing operations.

• Oversee the end-to-end processes of tooling and fixture outsourcing, fabrication, validation, and acceptance, ensuring adherence to stringent quality and cost parameters.

• Provide technical leadership and guidance to a team of engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in technical documentation and problem-solving.

• Drive independent mechanical design, modifications, and reverse engineering projects to optimize product development and manufacturing efficiency.

• Ensure seamless integration of tooling and fixtures across device packaging, module assembly, and testing phases to maximize operational compatibility and output.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a management-level position within a manufacturing and engineering context. The emphasis on "overseeing processes," "guiding team members," and "independently complete" suggests a blend of hands-on technical contribution and leadership responsibilities. The focus on semiconductor packaging, optical modules, and automation clearly places this within a high-tech manufacturing operations environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and finalize detailed 2D and 3D mechanical design drawings for tooling, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and performance.

• Manage the entire lifecycle of tooling and fixture outsourcing, from vendor selection and fabrication oversight to rigorous validation and final acceptance.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians in technical reviews, troubleshooting complex mechanical issues, and updating technical documentation.

• Undertake independent mechanical design tasks, including creating new designs, implementing modifications to existing designs, and performing reverse engineering for legacy systems or parts.

• Create clear and informative mechanical design drawings, including assembly exploded views, to facilitate manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance.

• Conduct thorough testing and selection of appropriate materials for tooling and fixtures, balancing performance requirements, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

• Oversee and execute tooling testing, assembly processes, detailed analysis, pilot production reviews, and implement necessary corrective actions for continuous improvement.

• Collaborate closely with production and manufacturing teams to resolve assembly issues that arise during mass production of optical modules and related components.

• Execute production component scheduling and planning, ensuring timely delivery of materials and components for R&D design projects.

• Maintain a strong sense of responsibility and a keen awareness of quality standards and cost implications throughout all design and manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep involvement in the physical product development lifecycle, from initial design to mass production support. The inclusion of "Process of tooling and fixture outsourcing, fabrication, validation, and acceptance" and "testing and selecting materials for tooling" indicates a strong emphasis on hands-on manufacturing engineering and supply chain coordination within the mechanical design domain.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in semiconductor packaging tooling and fixtures.

• Proven practical experience in optical module mechanical design, with a strong understanding of related manufacturing processes.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in 2D and 3D mechanical design software (e.g., SOLIDWORKS, AutoCAD, Creo).

• Expertise in tooling and fixture design principles and applications within high-volume manufacturing.

• Strong understanding of material science and selection for mechanical components and tooling.

• Proven ability to manage outsourcing, fabrication, and validation processes for mechanical parts.

• Experience in reverse engineering and technical documentation creation, including assembly drawings and exploded views.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze and resolve assembly issues in a mass production environment.

• Skilled in production component scheduling, planning, and execution of R&D projects.

• Excellent quality and cost awareness with a track record of optimizing designs for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with optical module processes and their integration with mechanical design.

• Familiarity with semiconductor packaging techniques and associated tooling requirements.

• Knowledge of automation systems and their application in manufacturing.

• Experience in project management methodologies for R&D initiatives.

• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience in semiconductor packaging tooling and fixtures, alongside optical module mechanical design, signifies a senior-level role requiring specialized expertise. The emphasis on both design and the manufacturing processes (outsourcing, fabrication, validation) points to a candidate who can bridge the gap between design and production. The "automation experience is a plus" suggests a forward-looking approach to manufacturing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Detailed case studies showcasing successful 2D and 3D mechanical designs for tooling and fixtures, emphasizing complexity and innovation.

• Examples of technical documentation created, including assembly drawings, exploded views, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• Documentation of processes managed, such as outsourcing, fabrication oversight, and validation protocols for tooling and fixtures.

• Evidence of material selection processes and justification for chosen materials, highlighting performance and cost considerations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflows demonstrating how tooling and fixture projects are initiated, designed, fabricated, validated, and accepted.

• Methodologies used for technical issue resolution and documentation updates.

• Systems or processes for managing production component scheduling and R&D project execution.

• Examples of cost and quality awareness integrated into the design and manufacturing process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Mechanical Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase design capabilities but also management of processes, team guidance, and problem-solving within a manufacturing context. This includes demonstrating experience with the entire lifecycle from concept through to production support.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).

• Retirement savings plan or pension contributions.

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.

• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and stock options, reflecting Lumentum's commitment to rewarding high performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team collaboration, with potential for occasional overtime during critical production phases or project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimations for international roles are complex and depend heavily on local market data, specific company compensation philosophies, and the exact responsibilities of the role. The provided range is a general estimate based on typical senior engineering management positions in China's advanced manufacturing sector and should be verified.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• The Mechanical Design Manager will likely lead a team of mechanical engineers, designers, and technicians responsible for product realization and manufacturing support.

• This team will report into a broader engineering or operations leadership structure, with close collaboration with manufacturing, NPI (New Product Introduction), R&D, and quality assurance departments.

Methodology:

• Lumentum likely employs rigorous engineering methodologies, possibly including Agile or Stage-Gate for NPI, coupled with Lean Manufacturing principles for production.

• Data analysis and performance metrics are crucial for optimizing designs, managing production yields, and tracking project progress.

Company Website:

• https://www.lumentum.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Lumentum's position as a leader in photonics and optical technology is key. This implies a culture that values deep technical expertise, innovation, and precision engineering. The company's size suggests a professional environment with structured processes, while its relatively recent formation as an independent entity might imply agility and a drive for growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

• The Mechanical Design Manager will typically report to a Director or Vice President of Engineering, Operations, or Product Development.

• This role will have direct reports, including mechanical engineers and designers, who will be responsible for executing design tasks and supporting manufacturing.

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into higher leadership roles, such as Director of Mechanical Engineering or VP of Operations, managing larger teams and broader functional areas.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced optical packaging, laser system design, or manufacturing automation systems.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunity to transition into roles in NPI management, advanced manufacturing engineering, or program management, leveraging a strong understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Continuous Learning: Access to Lumentum's training programs, industry conferences, and potential for further certifications in engineering or management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant career step, moving beyond individual contribution to team and process leadership within a highly technical manufacturing environment. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding leadership scope or deepening specialized technical knowledge within Lumentum's core photonics and laser technologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be equipped with industry-standard mechanical design software and hardware.

• Collaboration will be key, involving frequent interaction with manufacturing engineers, technicians, R&D teams, and potentially suppliers.

Work Schedule:

• The typical work schedule will be full-time, Monday to Friday. However, given the nature of manufacturing operations and product development, there may be a need for flexibility to meet project deadlines, address urgent production issues, or coordinate with global teams across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Dongguan, a significant manufacturing center, underscores the hands-on and collaborative nature of this role. It necessitates physical presence to interface directly with production and R&D teams, as well as manufacturing equipment and processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A technical interview with the hiring manager to delve into your mechanical design expertise, leadership experience, and understanding of manufacturing processes. Be prepared to discuss your approach to tooling and fixture design, material selection, and problem-solving.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: This may involve a technical test or a deep dive into your portfolio. You will be expected to present specific case studies of your work, detailing design challenges, your solutions, the processes you managed, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on demonstrating your impact on quality, cost, and efficiency.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key team members or stakeholders from manufacturing, R&D, or quality assurance to assess collaboration skills and technical synergy.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Engineering) to evaluate strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit within Lumentum's culture and objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Present 3-5 of your most impactful projects that directly relate to the job description – focusing on semiconductor packaging tooling, optical modules, and manufacturing process integration.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The Problem/Challenge: What was the specific issue or requirement?
  • Your Role & Approach: What did you do, and what methodology did you employ?
  • The Solution: Describe the design, process, or modification implemented.
  • The Results: Quantify the impact using metrics (e.g., % improvement in yield, % reduction in cost, time saved, defect rate reduction).

• Highlight Process Management: Showcase your experience managing outsourcing, fabrication, validation, and acceptance, detailing how you ensured quality and efficiency.

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to explain design decisions, material choices, and the rationale behind your engineering solutions.

• Tailor to Lumentum: Research Lumentum's products and technologies. If possible, draw parallels between your past work and their areas of focus.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential technical challenges that might involve:

  • Analyzing a given mechanical design problem and proposing solutions.
  • Optimizing an existing tooling or fixture design for cost or performance.
  • Outlining a process for validating a new manufacturing fixture.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically, as if explaining it to a cross-functional team. Focus on efficiency, manufacturability, and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and case studies is paramount for a design management role. Candidates must be prepared to not only discuss their experience but also visually and quantitatively demonstrate their impact on engineering projects and manufacturing operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-leading 3D CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS, Creo, or CATIA is essential for mechanical design.

• 2D Drafting Software: Expertise in AutoCAD or similar tools for creating detailed 2D drawings.

• PLM/PDM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) or Product Data Management (PDM) systems for managing design data, revisions, and workflows.

• FEA Software: Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) for stress, thermal, and vibration analysis of designs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to use Excel or more advanced tools for analyzing manufacturing data, yield rates, and cost metrics.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or interpreting reports and dashboards that track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design, production, and quality.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Systems: Understanding of how ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) integrate with design and manufacturing processes for materials planning and production scheduling.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Jira for managing R&D projects and team tasks.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack for team communication and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific CAD software is not listed, but proficiency in a major 3D modeling package is implicit for a Mechanical Design Manager. FEA tools are crucial for validating designs under stress, which is likely important given the application in optical modules and semiconductor packaging.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Quality: A deep commitment to accuracy and high standards in all design and manufacturing activities, essential for Lumentum's sophisticated products.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages creative thinking, tackling complex technical challenges, and finding efficient solutions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across departments (R&D, Manufacturing, Quality) to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: Driving operational excellence by optimizing processes, reducing waste, and managing costs without compromising quality.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for designs, processes, and project outcomes from inception to completion.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active engagement with NPI, Manufacturing, Quality, and R&D teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, reliable, and meet market needs.

• Feedback Loops: Encouraging open communication and constructive feedback between design engineers and production/manufacturing personnel to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise within the design team and across related departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Lumentum's focus on high-precision optical and photonics technology suggests a culture that values meticulousness, technical rigor, and a problem-solving mindset. Cross-functional collaboration is vital in bridging the gap between design and manufacturing in such a complex field.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in optical technology, semiconductor packaging, and manufacturing techniques to ensure designs remain cutting-edge.

• Global Supply Chain Management: Navigating the complexities of sourcing and managing tooling and fixture fabrication with international suppliers, ensuring quality and delivery timelines.

• Balancing Cost, Quality, and Time: Effectively managing trade-offs between design optimization, manufacturing costs, product quality, and project timelines.

• Technical Team Leadership: Mentoring and developing a team of skilled engineers, ensuring consistent application of best practices and fostering a high-performance culture.

• Resolving Production Issues: Quickly and effectively addressing unexpected mechanical issues that arise during mass production, which can impact yield and throughput.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to learn and apply advanced simulation and design techniques relevant to photonics and high-precision manufacturing.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications in project management, specific CAD/FEA software, or manufacturing excellence programs.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into manufacturing processes, quality control methodologies, and R&D roadmaps.

• Leadership Development: Participating in Lumentum's leadership training programs to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced leaders within Lumentum who can provide guidance on career progression and technical development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment. Growth opportunities are geared towards both technical mastery and expanding leadership capabilities within Lumentum's specialized domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical design project you led from concept to production. What were the key challenges, your strategy for overcoming them, and the measurable outcomes?" (Focus on your process, team management, and results.)

• "How do you approach material selection for tooling and fixtures, considering factors like cost, durability, and specific application requirements (e.g., optical alignment)?" (Demonstrate your technical understanding and analytical approach.)

• "Walk me through your process for validating new tooling or a critical fixture before it's integrated into mass production. What metrics do you track?" (Highlight your attention to detail and process-oriented thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Lumentum's products and our position in the optical networking and photonics market?" (Research Lumentum's website, recent news, and investor relations.)

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within a mechanical design team?" (Connect your past experiences with Lumentum's likely values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality images, CAD renderings, and diagrams. If possible, include short videos or animations of designs in motion.

• Quantify Everything: For each project, clearly present the metrics that demonstrate your impact (e.g., yield improvements, cost savings, cycle time reductions, defect rate decreases).

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation around the problem, your innovative solution, and the tangible results. Emphasize your role as a leader and problem-solver.

• Focus on Process: Detail how you managed the entire lifecycle – from initial concept and design through outsourcing, fabrication, validation, and production support.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your design choices, material selections, simulation methods, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on demonstrating both technical depth in mechanical design for manufacturing and leadership capability. A strong portfolio with quantifiable results is essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Mechanical Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Lumentum careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in 2D/3D mechanical design, tooling and fixture development, semiconductor packaging, and optical modules. Use keywords from the job description and emphasize leadership accomplishments.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your most relevant projects, focusing on case studies with quantifiable results. Ensure it showcases your expertise in design, process management, and problem-solving within a manufacturing context.

• Research Lumentum: Familiarize yourself with Lumentum's technologies, products, and market position. Understand their commitment to innovation and quality in the photonics industry.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your leadership style, technical expertise, and experience managing design projects and teams, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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