Hand Solder Technician III role at PPSI
Open Position · Manufacturing

Hand Solder Technician III

ManufacturingHouston, TX — On-siteFull-time1st & 2nd shift
01

Description

Senior-level technician and subject matter expert who leads hand soldering operations, drives quality and process improvements, and serves as the go-to technical resource for the most demanding builds. Acts as a working lead on the production floor, supports engineering during new product introduction, and plays a key role in maintaining IPC certification standards across the team.

02

Shifts

Both shifts are available for this position. Let us know your preferred shift when you apply.

First Shift
6:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Second Shift
2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
03

Responsibilities

  • Lead and execute the most complex hand soldering and rework operations, including high-reliability aerospace and defense assemblies requiring IPC J-STD-001 Class 3 with space addendum workmanship
  • Serve as the subject matter expert on IPC J-STD-001 soldering standards and IPC-A-610 inspection criteria across all product classes
  • Perform and oversee advanced rework including BGA reballing, micro-soldering, pad repair, and conformal coating removal and reapplication
  • Collaborate with engineering on new product introduction, design for manufacturability reviews, and first article production
  • Develop and refine work instructions, soldering procedures, and visual aids for hand solder operations
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for soldering-related defects and non-conformances
  • Serve as a working lead, coordinating daily work assignments and priorities on the production floor
  • Train, mentor, and evaluate technicians at all levels; support IPC certification preparation and skills advancement
  • Oversee wave solder setup, profiling, and optimization; troubleshoot solder defects and process deviations
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction using 6S and other lean methodologies
  • Support internal and customer audits by demonstrating process compliance and workmanship standards
  • Interface with quality engineering on inspection criteria, acceptance standards, and process validation
  • Maintain expert-level proficiency across all hand soldering tools, rework equipment, and inspection systems
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Requirements

  • Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in electronics hand soldering, rework, and assembly
  • Expert knowledge of IPC J-STD-001 standards with demonstrated Class 3 build experience
  • IPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification required
  • IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification required
  • Proven ability to lead teams, coordinate production activities, and mentor technicians at all levels
  • Strong problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and corrective action
  • Ability to read and interpret complex schematics, assembly drawings, and engineering specifications independently
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface with engineering, quality, and management
  • Experience working in an AS9100D-certified or equivalent quality management system environment
05

Preferred Qualifications

  • IPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certification
  • IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certification
  • IPC 7711/7721 Rework, Modification, and Repair certification
  • Experience with ITAR-controlled programs and defense manufacturing requirements
  • Experience with conformal coating application and removal
  • Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools
  • Demonstrated experience leading continuous improvement or lean manufacturing initiatives
Position Details
Category
Manufacturing
Location
Houston, TX
Employment
Full-time
Shifts
1st & 2nd

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