The Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring process quality, defect prevention, and compliance across Surface Mount Technology (SMT)–based manufacturing and assembly operations. The role focuses on inline quality control, process capability, failure containment, and continuous improvement, ensuring stable manufacturing performance and adherence to internal and customer quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
A. Manufacturing Line Quality Ownership (SMT Operations)
- Own end‑to‑end quality performance for assigned SMT manufacturing and assembly lines.
- Ensure first‑pass yield (FPY), DPPM, and defect rate targets are achieved.
- Monitor line startup, SMT changeovers, and production runs for quality compliance.
- Ensure operations run within approved SMT process windows and specifications.
B. Process Control & Defect Prevention
Implement and maintain process controls for SMT manufacturing, including:
- Control Plans
- PFMEA linkage
- SPC monitoring for SMT‑critical parameters
Drive defect prevention related to:
- SMT assembly and handling defects
- Soldering and interconnect issues
- Placement, polarity, and orientation defects
- Inspection and test fallout
Lead root cause analysis using:
- Fishbone
- DOE and data‑based analysis
C. Inline Inspection & Quality Monitoring
Interface with SMT inline inspection and test systems, such as:
- Visual inspection and acceptance criteria
Ensure inspection programs and criteria are:
- Correctly defined
- Controlled and validated
- Aligned with internal SMT standards and customer requirements
Validate inspection effectiveness and optimize false rejects.
D. Non‑Conformance & CAPA Management
- Own internal non‑conformances and SMT manufacturing rejects.
- Lead containment, corrective, and preventive actions (CAPA).
- Verify effectiveness of corrective actions before closure.
- Support MRB decisions and disposition controls.
E. Change Management & NPI Support
Support new product introduction (NPI) and SMT process changes by:
- Reviewing and updating SMT‑related PFMEA
- Validating pilot builds and production ramp‑up
- SMT tooling, stencil, and fixture qualification
- Equipment buy‑off and SMT process validation
F. Quality Data Analysis & Reporting
Analyze key SMT quality metrics such as:
- FPY
- DPPM
- Rework and scrap trends
Prepare and present:
- Daily SMT line quality updates
- Weekly and monthly quality reports
G. Supplier & Incoming Quality Support
Support incoming quality issues related to SMT materials such as:
- PCBs
- Solder paste and consumables
Work with Supplier Quality teams for:
- Root cause analysis
- Corrective action verification
H. Compliance & Audit Readiness
Ensure SMT manufacturing operations comply with:
- ISO 9001
- IATF 16949
- IPC standards and customer requirements
Support internal, customer, and certification audits related to SMT quality.
I. Training & Quality Culture
Train and coach:
- SMT operators
- Manufacturing engineers
Drive adherence to:
- SOPs and work instructions
- Visual controls
- Quality and ESD practices
Promote a strong quality ownership mindset on the shop floor.
Qualifications
Education
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineering
Experience
- 3–8 years of experience in:
- SMT manufacturing quality
- Assembly or backend electronics operations
Technical Skills
Strong understanding of:
- SMT manufacturing processes
- Solder printing, placement, reflow fundamentals