Principal Industrial Engineer – Manufacturing

About the role

Western Digital is seeking a Principal Industrial Engineer to lead manufacturing engineering initiatives. You will drive efficient production operations by aligning capacity planning with business growth and demand forecasts, while optimizing plant layouts and continuous improvement projects.

Key responsibilities

• Develop short‑term and long‑term capacity plans based on production forecasts and growth targets.
• Analyze equipment, workforce, and material capabilities to identify constraints and recommend capital investments.
• Design and implement efficient plant layouts using AutoCAD, simulation and digital factory tools.
• Lead layout redesign projects for new product introductions, line expansions, or process upgrades.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and Industrial Engineering methods to improve productivity, reduce waste, and balance lines.
• Conduct time studies, line balancing, and work‑measurement analyses.
• Collaborate with production, planning, and supply‑chain teams to ensure balanced capacity utilization.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in industrial or manufacturing engineering, preferably in a senior or principal capacity.
• Proven ability to develop capacity models and perform scenario planning.
• Strong analytical mindset with data‑driven decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration abilities.

Required skills

• AutoCAD
• Simulation software and digital factory tools
• Lean Manufacturing
• Six Sigma
• Industrial Engineering methodologies
• Capacity planning
• Facility layout and space optimization