SMT Operator III

Description

Senior-level operator and subject matter expert who owns SMT line performance and serves as the go-to technical resource for complex setups and challenging product builds. Acts as a working lead on the SMT line, assists engineering and the SMT supervisor with program development and reflow profiling, and plays a key role in maintaining equipment reliability and production quality across the operation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the most complex SMT line setups including high-density boards, fine-pitch components, and mixed-technology assemblies for aerospace and defense programs
• Serve as the subject matter expert on all SMT line equipment and processes across the operation
• Assist the SMT supervisor and process engineering with pick-and-place program creation, editing, and optimization for new and existing products
• Support reflow oven profiling efforts by running test boards, collecting thermocouple data, and verifying profiles meet solder paste manufacturer specifications and IPC guidelines
• Collaborate with engineering on new product introduction and first article production; provide feedback on stencil design, component orientation, and panel layout from an operator perspective
• Perform advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis on complex SMT defects; recommend corrective actions to engineering and supervision
• Serve as a working lead, coordinating daily line schedules, changeover priorities, and operator assignments
• Train, mentor, and evaluate operators at all levels; support IPC certification preparation and skills advancement
• Lead preventive maintenance planning and execution; coordinate with equipment vendors on service, upgrades, and spare parts
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on line uptime, first-pass yield, defect reduction, and throughput using 6S and lean methodologies
• Support internal and customer audits by demonstrating process compliance, traceability, and workmanship standards
• Monitor and analyze production data (placement rates, defect Pareto, downtime trends) to identify improvement opportunities and report findings to supervision
• Evaluate new tooling, nozzles, feeders, and consumables; provide recommendations to the SMT supervisor on equipment needs
• Develop and refine setup procedures and visual aids for SMT operations

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in SMT operations including setup, changeover, and troubleshooting
• Expert knowledge of SMT processes including stencil printing, pick-and-place operation, reflow soldering, and inspection systems
• IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification required
• Demonstrated ability to assist with pick-and-place program development and reflow profile validation
• Proven ability to lead teams, coordinate production activities, and mentor operators at all levels
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and corrective action for SMT defects
• Proficiency across multiple pick-and-place platforms and machine software environments
• Ability to read and interpret complex assembly drawings, Gerber data, and engineering specifications independently
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface with engineering, quality, and management
• Experience working in an AS9100-certified or equivalent quality management system environment

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC-A-610 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certification
• IPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) or Trainer (CIT) certification
• Experience with ITAR-controlled programs and defense manufacturing requirements
• Experience with SPI and AOI parameter adjustment and defect library management
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools
• Demonstrated experience leading continuous improvement or lean manufacturing initiatives