Navneeth Krishnan G
Hardware Program Manager
Bengaluru,KA
Summary
Engineering Leader with 14+ years of experience in electromechanical product development, validation, and system integration across automotive domains. Proven expertise in test strategy, failure analysis, design validation, and cross-functional coordination. Strong background in automotive sensors, brackets, wiring harness design, and test planning, combined with hands-on exposure to embedded systems and lab-scale prototyping. Experienced in driving quality, problem-solving, and continuous improvement initiatives while collaborating with global stakeholders.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Hardware Program Lead
Mercedes-Benz Research & Development India
01.2017 - Current
- Lead system-level integration and validation strategy for automotive hardware platforms
- Coordinate with global stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-functional teams for project execution
- Define test strategies and validation approaches for complex embedded systems (infotainment/ ADAS)
- Support failure analysis and problem-solving for field and manufacturing issues
- Drive technical alignment between hardware, software, and validation teams
- Contribute to process improvements and efficient execution of engineering programs
- Mentor and guide a team of 3 engineers, supporting technical development, problem-solving, and project execution
Senior Design Engineer
Volvo Group Trucks Technology
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Designed installation components, brackets (sheet metal & plastic) for chassis applications
- Developed wiring harness routing concepts and resolved field issues like chafing and failures
- Performed root cause analysis and corrective actions for quality issues
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams for validation and production readiness
- Created installation and engineering documentation for production and aftermarket
Design Engineer
Honeywell Technology Solutions
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Developed automotive sensor systems (angular & linear position sensors)
- Created and executed design validation test plans (DVP) and generated qualification reports
- Performed data analysis and failure analysis from vibration, shock, and environmental tests
- Led DFMEA activities and implemented design improvements based on test results
- Coordinated test programs with evaluation teams and external vendors
- Designed test fixtures, gauges, and validation setups
- Supported supplier selection, DFM reviews, and prototype development
- Delivered solutions under tight timelines and stringent environmental requirements
Education
Master of Science - Engineering (Mechanical/Mechatronics)
Vellore Institute of Technology
Vellore, India 04.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Mar Baselios College of Engineering
Trivandrum 04.2001 -
Skills
Design Tools: NX/Pro/E (Creo), 2D/3D Modeling, GD&T
Validation & Quality: DFMEA, DFM/DFA, GRR, Six Sigma
Data & Analysis: Test data interpretation, qualification reporting
Systems: Embedded Linux, Raspberry Pi, Sensors, Automation workflows
Accomplishments
- Awarded Velocity Product Development Award for successful product launches
- Led end-to-end product development from VOC to production launch
- Strong experience in failure investigation, teardown analysis, and validation closure
- Proven ability to handle multiple projects and deliver under tight timelines
Certification
Safe by Scaled Agile
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Test Engineering & Validation Strategy (DVP, qualification reports, test coordination)
- Failure Analysis & Root Cause Investigation (5 Why, DFMEA, PDCA)
- Electromechanical Product Design (Plastic, Sheet Metal, Brackets, Sensors)
- Quality Management Practices (DFMEA, DFM, DFA, Six Sigma Green Belt)
- Cross-functional & Global Stakeholder Coordination
- Manufacturing Processes (Injection Molding, Stamping basics, DFM reviews)
- Data Analysis & Reporting from Validation Testing
- Vendor Management & Prototype Development
- Embedded Prototyping & Automation (Raspberry Pi, Sensors)
Timeline
Safe by Scaled Agile
03-2026
Hardware Program Lead
Mercedes-Benz Research & Development India
01.2017 - Current
Senior Design Engineer
Volvo Group Trucks Technology
01.2016 - 01.2017
Six Sigma Green Belt Certified
06-2013
Design Engineer
Honeywell Technology Solutions
01.2012 - 01.2016
Master of Science - Engineering (Mechanical/Mechatronics)
Vellore Institute of Technology
04.2001 -
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Mar Baselios College of Engineering
04.2001 -