As a SMT Engineer with a decade of experience, candidate will be responsible for leading and optimizing the Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes in the manufacturing of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). Candidate will oversee production, troubleshoot technical issues, and implement continuous improvement initiatives to ensure high-quality, cost-efficient manufacturing. Candidate will also play a key role in training and mentoring junior staff, and in collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve production goals.
The SMT Engineer position is part of the Engineering Team. This is a full-time, exempt position. This position will require a broad range of responsibilities to ensure success. Some examples of these responsibilities are listed below (but are not limited to the following) :
1. SMT Process Management :
- Develop and optimize SMT processes, including stencil design, component placement, solder paste application, and reflow soldering.
- Oversee machine setup, programming, and maintenance of SMT equipment (e.g., pick-and-place machines, solder printers, reflow ovens, etc.).
- Conduct troubleshooting and corrective actions for process or equipment-related issues.
2. Quality Assurance :
Implement and monitor quality control measures to ensure compliance with industry standards (IPC-A-610, IPC-7711, etc.) and customer specifications.Perform root cause analysis of defects and lead corrective and preventive action initiatives.Collaborate with the quality team to refine inspection processes (e.g., AOI, X-ray inspection).3. Process Improvement :
Analyze and improve SMT line efficiency, throughput, and yield through continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).Optimize component placement programs to reduce cycle time and minimize defects.Stay updated on the latest SMT technologies and recommend upgrades or process changes to improve production.4. Equipment and Maintenance :
Manage and maintain SMT equipment, ensuring regular preventive maintenance schedules are followed.Provide technical support to the maintenance team for complex equipment repairs and improvements.5. Collaboration and Leadership :
Lead a team of SMT operators and technicians, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.Work closely with design, quality, and procurement teams to ensure smooth new product introduction (NPI) processes.Provide feedback to design teams regarding Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) considerations.6. Documentation and Reporting :
Maintain detailed documentation of process parameters, equipment settings, and production runs.Generate production reports, yield analysis, and other metrics for management review.7. Compliance and Safety :
Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.Promote a safe working environment by enforcing safety policies and conducting regular safety audits.Systems Used
Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word, PPT, Excel)SyteLineRequired Skills and Qualifications :
Education : Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience : 10 years of hands-on experience in SMT engineering and circuit board manufacturing.
Technical Skills :
Deep knowledge of SMT manufacturing processes, equipment, and troubleshooting.Expertise in solder paste printing, reflow soldering, component placement, and SMT machine programming.Proficiency with SMT software (Valor, Siemens, or Fuji programming tools) and familiarity with CAD tools for PCB design review.Knowledge of IPC standards and experience in quality inspection techniques (AOI, X-ray, SPI).Soft Skills :
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.Excellent communication and leadership abilities.Experience in project management and process improvement.Preferred Qualifications
Six Sigma Green Belt or Lean Manufacturing certification.Familiarity with Industry 4.0 practices and automation in SMT.Experience with high-mix, low-volume production environments.Work Environment
Fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment.Requires working closely with production and engineering teams on-site.Occasional travel may be required to supplier or customer sites.Career Path
From this position, there are opportunities to take on some additional responsibilities and grow the position or move into another position.
