SMT Operator

The SMT Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring surface mount technology (SMT) production equipment used in the assembly of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). This position supports the SMT production process by loading materials, setting up and operating equipment, monitoring machine performance, inspecting assemblies, and maintaining accurate production records.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate SMT production equipment in accordance with established procedures, work instructions, and safety requirements.
• Load and verify components, feeders, reels, trays, and other materials required for production.
• Verify component part numbers, values, quantities, and lot/traceability information before loading materials.
• Operate and monitor equipment such as:
  • Solder paste printers
  • SPI (Solder Paste Inspection)
  • Pick-and-place machines
  • Reflow ovens
  • AOI (Automated Optical Inspection)
  • Board handling equipment
  • Depaneling or related SMT equipment
• Monitor equipment during production and identify abnormal machine conditions, alarms, jams, or process issues.
• Perform basic machine adjustments and troubleshooting within the scope of training and authorization.
• Follow established SMT setup and changeover procedures.
• Verify feeder locations and component placement against the approved program, setup documentation, and BOM.
• Maintain proper component and material traceability throughout the production process.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections as required.
• Inspect PCBAs for component placement, orientation, polarity, solder quality, and other visible defects.
• Identify and properly segregate defective or suspect material.
• Notify the SMT Supervisor, Process Engineer, or Quality personnel of production or quality issues.
• Perform basic rework or touch-up activities when trained and authorized.
• Follow IPC-A-610 workmanship standards and applicable company quality requirements.
• Maintain proper ESD controls at all times, including use of wrist straps, ESD footwear, mats, and other required equipment.
• Maintain accurate production documentation, travelers, inspection records, and electronic manufacturing records.
• Perform routine equipment cleaning and operator-level preventive maintenance.
• Keep workstations and SMT production areas clean and organized in accordance with 5S practices.
• Follow established safety procedures and proper handling requirements for solder paste, chemicals, and electronic components.
• Meet established production schedules, quality standards, and efficiency requirements.
• Communicate material shortages, equipment problems, quality concerns, and production delays promptly.
• Assist with line changeovers, product transfers, and engineering builds as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience:
  • Preferred 1+ years of experience in SMT or PCBA in a manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with manufacturing support systems is highly desirable.

• Education: High school diploma or GED, basic computer skills, and the ability to read technical documents and schematics.
• Technical Skills: 
  • Ability to read and follow detailed work instructions and assembly drawings.
  • Ability to use basic hand tools and production equipment.
  • Basic understanding of electronic components and mechanical assembly.
  • Ability to work in an ESD-controlled environment.
• Soft Skills: 
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining consistent quality.
  • Effective communication skills for collaborating with team members and supervisors.
• Other: The role often requires standing for extended periods in a manufacturing environment. Occasionally may need to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects up to 50 lbs. Ability to wear required PPE and ESD equipment.