PCBA Test Fixture & Robotic Automation Design Manager PCBA Test Fixture & Robotic Automation Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PCBA Test Fixture & Robotic Automation Design Manager

Company: Tata Electronics Private Limited

Location: Vemagal, Karnataka, India

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing Operations / Engineering

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the comprehensive engineering and deployment of PCBA test fixtures and robotic automation systems within a high-volume manufacturing environment.

• Drive innovation in automated testing solutions, integrating hardware, software, and robotics to enhance product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

• Ensure seamless collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, scalable, and high-performance automated test and validation platforms.

• Implement advanced process control methodologies and data analytics to optimize equipment reliability and production output.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for establishing and scaling advanced manufacturing processes at a new semiconductor foundry. The focus on both hardware (test fixtures) and software/robotics (automation) indicates a need for a candidate with a broad engineering skill set in manufacturing operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Test Fixture Design & Optimization: Design and develop In-Circuit Test (ICT) and Functional Validation Test (FVT) fixtures, including PCBA interface boards, load boards, and specialized connectors. Ensure electrical integrity for high-speed signals, power rails, and RF components through controlled impedance designs and precise layout practices.

• Robotic Automation & Integration: Engineer and implement robotic automation systems and motion control solutions to streamline ICT/FVT fixture workflows. Program PLCs, robot controllers (e.g., Fanuc, ABB), and HMIs, and integrate vision systems for quality validation.

• Automated Test System Development: Lead the end-to-end engineering of LabVIEW-based automated test systems, including design, deployment, and validation of virtual instrumentation and data acquisition solutions.

• Production Deployment & Support: Oversee the deployment, calibration, and validation of test and automation equipment on the PCBA production floor. Support process qualification, preventive maintenance, and reliability validation activities.

• Process Improvement & Quality Assurance: Collaborate with operations, quality, and yield engineering teams to implement methodologies like FMEA, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis. Drive continuous improvement initiatives for fixture performance, uptime, and overall manufacturing efficiency.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with process engineering, product/test engineering, SMT/assembly teams, and quality assurance to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of automated systems.

• Hardware-Software Interface & Debug: Perform hardware bring-up, fault diagnosis, and debug of automated test systems. Interface with instrumentation and hardware using DAQmx/VISA and various communication protocols (Modbus, CAN, RS-232/485, SPI, USB, Ethernet).

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hardware design, software development (specifically LabVIEW), and automation engineering, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing execution and process improvement within a high-volume electronics production environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Industrial Engineering.

Experience:

• 5-10+ years of progressive experience in PCBA test fixture design, automation tooling, robotic system deployment, or equipment engineering within the electronics manufacturing sector.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise with ICT, FVT, flying-probe testers, or automated test handler systems.

• Strong background in PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron) and HMI design.

• Practical skills in Signal Integrity (SI) and Power Integrity (PI) simulation and PCB layout tools (e.g., Cadence Allegro/SiWave, Mentor Xpedition, PADS).

• Solid understanding of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.

• In-depth knowledge of SMT, ICT, and FVT process environments.

• Proficiency in Statistical Process Control (SPC) and quality management systems (Lean, Six Sigma, FMEA).

• Hands-on experience in manufacturing test floor environments for debugging, validation, and automation deployment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with robotic motion/control integration (e.g., Fanuc, ABB).

• Integration of vision systems (multi-camera AOI/inspection).

• Familiarity with IIoT sensor data integration for quality validation.

• Experience in implementing predictive maintenance strategies.

• Knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes and equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a deep technical understanding of electronics testing and automation, with a specific need for proficiency in LabVIEW and common industrial automation hardware/software. Experience in semiconductor manufacturing is a strong plus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing complex PCBA test fixtures, including detailed CAD files, schematics, and bills of materials.

• Case studies showcasing the design and integration of robotic automation systems, detailing the problem statement, solution architecture, implementation challenges, and performance outcomes.

• Examples of automated test system development using LabVIEW, highlighting architecture, key modules, data acquisition strategies, and instrument control.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for fixture setup, calibration, and maintenance.

• Documentation of validation reports for new test systems, including IQ/OQ/PQ (Installation Qualification/Operational Qualification/Performance Qualification) where applicable.

• Evidence of creating and maintaining process documentation for continuous improvement initiatives, such as FMEA or Six Sigma project reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that visually and analytically demonstrates their capabilities in designing, implementing, and optimizing automated test solutions for PCBA manufacturing. Quantifiable results and detailed process documentation are key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the specialized nature of the role, the extensive experience required (5-10+ years), and the strategic importance of establishing a new semiconductor foundry, the estimated annual salary for a PCBA Test Fixture & Robotic Automation Design Manager in Vemagal, Karnataka, India, would likely range from ₹1,500,000 to ₹2,500,000 (approximately $18,000 - $30,000 USD at current exchange rates). This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles in advanced manufacturing and technology sectors in India, considering the company's affiliation with the Tata Group.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.

• Retirement savings plans (e.g., Provident Fund).

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

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications in cutting-edge automation and testing technologies.

• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates moving to Vemagal.

• Access to employee welfare programs and benefits typical of large, established conglomerates like the Tata Group.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are expected, typically 40-48 hours per week, with potential for overtime during critical project phases or equipment deployment. The role is on-site in Vemagal, Karnataka.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on a combination of industry salary data for similar roles in India, the experience level specified, and the strategic significance of the position within a new, high-tech manufacturing facility. Benefits are inferred based on typical offerings for large corporations in India.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Semiconductor Manufacturing, Electronics Manufacturing, Advanced Technology. Tata Electronics is at the forefront of building India's first AI-enabled semiconductor foundry, a critical move towards self-reliance in advanced electronics.

Company Size: Large Enterprise. Tata Electronics Private Limited is a new venture but backed by the Tata Group, which is one of India's largest and most respected conglomerates, employing over 1 million people globally. This implies a structured, process-driven environment with significant resources.

Founded: Tata Electronics Private Limited is a greenfield venture. The Tata Group itself was founded in 1868, bringing a legacy of trust, ethics, and long-term vision to all its operations.

Team Structure:

• The operations and engineering teams are likely structured to support the rapid build-out and ramp-up of a state-of-the-art semiconductor foundry. This role will likely report into a senior engineering manager or director responsible for manufacturing engineering, test engineering, or automation.

• The PCBA Test Fixture & Robotic Automation Design Manager will lead a team of engineers and technicians responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of test fixtures and automation systems.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement are paramount in advanced manufacturing. Expect a strong emphasis on SPC, Six Sigma, FMEA, and data analytics for process optimization and quality control.

• Agile and iterative development methodologies may be applied to the design and deployment of new automation systems.

• A focus on robust documentation, including SOPs, validation reports, and design specifications, will be critical for scalability and knowledge transfer.

Company Website: https://www.tataelectronics.com/ (Note: The provided URL was to careers.tataelectronics.com, a general corporate site is more appropriate for context)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on building a new semiconductor foundry implies a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a strong emphasis on innovation, quality, and efficiency. The Tata Group's reputation suggests a culture that values integrity, employee development, and long-term success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is a management-level role within the manufacturing operations and engineering domain. It requires significant technical depth combined with leadership capabilities to manage a specialized engineering team. The scope includes end-to-end responsibility for critical production systems, impacting yield, throughput, and product quality.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager of Manufacturing Engineering, Test Engineering, or Automation. The manager will, in turn, lead a team of engineers and technicians focused on PCBA test fixtures and robotic automation.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the company's ability to scale its PCBA manufacturing operations. By ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and accuracy of test fixtures and automation systems, the manager directly influences production output, product quality, defect rates, and ultimately, the cost of goods sold. Effective automation also contributes to a safer and more ergonomic work environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes, AI-enabled automation, and next-generation testing technologies.

• Leadership Expansion: Progress to senior management roles overseeing larger engineering departments or multiple manufacturing lines.

• Process Innovation: Lead initiatives for implementing Industry 4.0 technologies, predictive maintenance, and advanced data analytics within manufacturing operations.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Transition into broader roles in operations management, supply chain, or program management, leveraging a deep understanding of manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers substantial growth potential within a rapidly expanding, cutting-edge manufacturing facility. The emphasis on new technology and scale suggests opportunities for significant professional development and career advancement in the high-demand field of semiconductor manufacturing.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in the company's manufacturing facility in Vemagal, Karnataka. This will involve a blend of office-based design work and direct engagement within the production floor environment.

Office Location(s): Vemagal, Karnataka, India. This is a dedicated manufacturing facility, likely equipped with modern engineering labs, design workstations, and access to production lines.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will foster close collaboration with design engineers, automation specialists, process engineers, and production floor personnel. Expect a dynamic environment where problem-solving often occurs through direct interaction and teamwork.

• Tools & Technology: Access to advanced design software (CAD, SI/PI simulation), automation development platforms (LabVIEW, PLC programming environments), and potentially on-site simulation or prototyping capabilities.

• Production Floor Interaction: A significant portion of the role will involve working directly on or near the PCBA manufacturing lines, observing processes, troubleshooting equipment, and validating solutions in real-time. This requires adaptability and a hands-on approach.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule will be full-time, Monday to Friday, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, new equipment installations, or production ramp-ups. Flexibility will be key to meeting the demands of a manufacturing environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characteristic of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility, blending office-based engineering with essential on-the-ground interaction with production processes and equipment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will conduct an initial review of your resume and qualifications to assess basic fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth technical discussions with engineering managers and senior engineers. This will likely cover your experience with PCBA testing, automation design, LabVIEW, PLC programming, SI/PI, and manufacturing processes. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and challenges.

• Portfolio Review: You will be asked to present and discuss key projects from your portfolio. Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving approach, technical solutions, and the impact of your work on manufacturing efficiency and quality.

• Behavioral/Managerial Interview: This stage assesses your leadership potential, team management skills, collaboration abilities, and cultural fit with Tata Electronics. Questions will focus on how you handle conflict, motivate teams, and drive initiatives.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Director or VP level executive, focusing on strategic alignment, long-term vision, and overall fit for the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the measurable results (e.g., reduced cycle time by X%, improved test yield by Y%, decreased downtime by Z%).

• Showcase Design Process: Include diagrams, flowcharts, or architectural overviews to illustrate your design thinking and system architecture for both fixtures and automation.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Be ready to detail challenging issues encountered during design or implementation and how you systematically resolved them.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Visually showcase your work in relevant software like LabVIEW, Cadence, Mentor Graphics, or PLC programming environments.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience most relevant to high-volume PCBA manufacturing, semiconductor testing, and advanced automation.

Challenge Preparation:

• System Design Challenge: You might be given a hypothetical PCBA testing scenario and asked to outline your approach to designing the test fixture and automation system.

• Troubleshooting Scenario: You could be presented with a manufacturing issue (e.g., intermittent test failures, slow automation cycle) and asked to diagnose the root cause and propose solutions.

• Process Improvement Proposal: Prepare to discuss how you would approach optimizing an existing test process or implementing a new automation strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a robust portfolio that showcases not just technical skills but also the ability to manage complex projects, solve real-world manufacturing problems, and drive quantifiable improvements. The interview process will likely be multi-stage, assessing technical, leadership, and cultural fit.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Test Fixture Design Software: Cadence Allegro, Mentor Graphics Xpedition/PADS, Altium Designer (for schematic capture and PCB layout).

• SI/PI Simulation Tools: Cadence Sigrity, ANSYS SIwave.

• Automation & Control Software:

  • LabVIEW: Core platform for developing automated test systems, data acquisition, and instrumentation control.
  • PLC Programming Software: Siemens TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Omron CX-One.
  • HMI Development Software: Corresponding to PLC platforms.

• Robotics Software: Programming environments for Fanuc, ABB, or other industrial robot manufacturers.

• Version Control: Git, SVN for managing code and design files.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially JMP, Minitab, or custom scripts using Python/R for statistical analysis of test data.

• Dashboarding Tools: NI DIAdem, or enterprise-level BI tools if integrated into production reporting.

• SPC Software: Integrated within manufacturing execution systems (MES) or dedicated SPC packages.

CRM & Automation:

• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): For production tracking, yield monitoring, and data collection.

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: For broader operational and resource management.

• Database Technologies: SQL for data extraction and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in LabVIEW is a non-negotiable requirement, alongside strong skills in PCB design tools and industrial automation programming. Experience with simulation tools and data analytics platforms will significantly enhance a candidate's profile.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the Tata Group's core values of honesty, fairness, and ethical conduct in all engineering and operational decisions.

• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for the highest standards in design, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes and automation. Embracing new technologies and approaches to solve complex challenges.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where cross-functional teams work together effectively to achieve common goals. Valuing diverse perspectives.

• Customer Focus: Ensuring that all manufactured products meet stringent quality standards and customer requirements, driven by robust testing and validation.

• Efficiency & Agility: Continuously seeking ways to optimize processes, reduce waste, and improve throughput while maintaining flexibility to adapt to evolving production needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open and transparent communication across engineering disciplines, production, and quality teams.

• Data-Driven Discussions: Utilizing data and metrics to inform decisions and resolve issues during collaborative problem-solving sessions.

• Process-Oriented Approach: Working collaboratively to define, document, and refine operational processes and workflows to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights are shared freely among team members and departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is expected to reflect the Tata Group's established values, emphasizing ethical leadership, operational excellence, and a strong sense of collective responsibility. Collaboration will be key to navigating the complexities of setting up a new, advanced manufacturing facility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Ramp-Up: Establishing and scaling complex PCBA testing and automation infrastructure for a new semiconductor foundry within aggressive timelines.

• Technology Integration: Integrating cutting-edge automation technologies, robotics, and AI-enabled systems into a high-volume manufacturing environment.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing dependencies and ensuring seamless integration between hardware design, software development, robotics, and production processes.

• Talent Development: Building and developing a high-performing team of engineers skilled in specialized areas of PCBA testing and automation.

• Yield Optimization: Continuously improving test coverage, reducing false positives/negatives, and maximizing test system uptime to achieve target production yields.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Automation Technologies: Gaining hands-on experience with the latest in robotics, AI in manufacturing, IIoT, and advanced simulation tools.

• Semiconductor Manufacturing Expertise: Developing deep knowledge of semiconductor fabrication, assembly, and testing processes.

• Leadership Training: Access to Tata Group's extensive leadership development programs, focusing on strategic management, team building, and operational excellence.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications in LabVIEW, automation, Six Sigma, or specialized semiconductor manufacturing techniques.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by experienced leaders within the Tata Group and to mentor junior engineers, fostering a continuous learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to scale, technology, and integration, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a pioneering manufacturing setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed a critical PCBA test fixture. What were the key considerations, and how did you ensure its performance and reliability in a high-volume environment?" (Focus on DFM/DFA, SI/PI, component selection, and validation.)

• "Walk me through your process for designing and implementing a robotic automation solution for a manufacturing line. What were the key steps, challenges, and outcomes?" (Highlight project management, integration, programming, and safety aspects.)

• "How have you used LabVIEW to develop complex automated test systems? Provide an example of a challenging instrumentation or control problem you solved." (Detail architecture, DAQmx usage, communication protocols, and debugging strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Tata Electronics and its vision for semiconductor manufacturing in India?" (Research their mission, technological focus, and role in the Tata Group.)

• "How do you foster collaboration between engineering teams and production floor staff?" (Discuss communication strategies, feedback mechanisms, and building trust.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Fixture Design, Automation Systems, LabVIEW Applications, Process Improvement).

• Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the problem, your unique contribution, the technical solution, challenges overcome, and the quantifiable impact.

• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, screenshots, and photos/videos where possible to illustrate your work. Ensure any sensitive company information is anonymized or generalized.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your work directly contributed to increased efficiency, improved quality, reduced costs, or faster time-to-market.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss technical details in depth, demonstrate a strategic approach to problem-solving, and articulate their leadership and collaboration skills, all while aligning with the values and mission of Tata Electronics.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided careers link on the Tata Electronics website.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords from the job description such as "PCBA Test Fixture," "Robotic Automation," "LabVIEW," "PLC Programming," "ICT/FVT," "Six Sigma," and "Manufacturing Engineering." Quantify your achievements with specific numbers and percentages wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your expertise in PCBA test fixture design, automation integration, and LabVIEW development. Be ready to present these with clear explanations of the problem, your solution, and the impact.

• Research Tata Electronics: Understand their vision for semiconductor manufacturing, their commitment to AI enablement, and their position within the Tata Group. This will help you articulate your alignment with their strategic goals.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to potential technical and behavioral questions, focusing on using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral examples and clearly articulating your technical approach for strategy 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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