SMT Operator

Job Overview: The SMT Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring surface mount technology (SMT) production equipment to build high-quality printed circuit board assemblies (PCBA) used in our high-performance HMI products. This position runs the SMT line from solder paste printing through placement and reflow, ensuring every board is built to internal standards, IPC workmanship guidelines, internal MAPS, and customer specifications while meeting production schedules.

Primary Responsibilities: Set up and operate SMT line equipment, including solder paste/stencil printers, pick-and-place machines, and reflow ovens, according to work instructions and production schedules. Load and verify component reels, trays, and feeders against the bill of materials (BOM) and setup sheets to ensure correct part numbers, values, and polarity. Perform line changeovers and job setups, including stencil installation, feeder loading, and loading approved machine programs. Handle and apply solder paste per established procedures, including proper storage, thawing, mixing, and shelf-life tracking. Monitor machine performance and output throughout the shift; respond to machine alarms, mispicks, and placement errors. Perform first article checks and in-process visual inspections; review solder paste inspection (SPI) and Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) results and escalate defects. Identify, document, and communicate equipment issues, defects, and quality concerns to the manufacturing lead/supervisor, SMT technicians, and quality teams. Perform basic troubleshooting and routine preventive maintenance on SMT equipment, such as nozzle cleaning, stencil cleaning, and feeder checks. Follow moisture-sensitive device (MSD) handling and ESD control procedures at all times. Maintain accurate production records, setup logs, and material transactions in line with company quality systems. Keep work areas and equipment clean and organized in support of 5S and safety standards. Participate in continuous improvement and Lean initiatives to improve throughput, yield, and SMT assembly quality. Other duties as assigned

Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent; technical/vocational training in electronics or manufacturing preferred. Experience operating automated production equipment in a manufacturing environment. Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality workmanship. Ability to read and interpret work instructions, BOMs, setup sheets, diagrams, and MAPS.Ability to identify electronic components and their markings, values, and polarity. Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to follow detailed procedures consistently. Familiarity with IPC-A-610 (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies) and ESD practices is highly desirable. Good communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with production, quality, and engineering teams. Computer proficiency for entering production data and accessing work instructions.

Preferred Skills & Experience: 1+ years of experience operating SMT equipment in an electronics manufacturing environment. Hands-on experience with pick-and-place, stencil printer, and reflow oven platforms (e.g., Fuji, Juki, Panasonic, Yamaha, Mycronic, DEK, MPM, Heller, BTU).Experience with SPI and AOI equipment. Experience with basic machine program edits, feeder setup optimization, or reflow profile verification. Prior experience in soldering or rework. IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 certification. Understanding of key quality and manufacturing systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100, or similar).

Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.