Staff Engineer – Tribology Characterization & Test Development

About the role

Western Digital is seeking a Staff Engineer to lead tribology characterization and test development for hard‑disk‑drive (HDD) spacing control. The role involves designing, executing, and analyzing experiments that assess the performance, reliability, and wear of emerging HDD designs.

Key responsibilities

• Plan and run tests using cutting‑edge spacing, tribology and metrology equipment.
• Apply statistical analysis to experimental data and produce detailed reports.
• Provide design improvement recommendations based on test findings.
• Develop automation scripts to streamline data processing and reporting.
• Lead projects and ensure timely completion of test activities.
• Oversee daily tester operations, troubleshoot equipment issues, and maintain tool performance.
• Refine test methodologies for new and evolving HDD architectures.
• Collaborate with global teams to coordinate spacing characterization initiatives.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Applied Physics, Physics, Materials Science & Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 3 years of professional experience in tribology, physical characterization, and metrology.

Required skills

• Tribology and wear analysis.
• Physical characterization and metrology techniques.
• Statistical data analysis.
• Automation scripting for data handling.
• Operation of advanced characterization tools.