2D X-Ray Technician

Rocket-Ems; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket EMS is seeking an experienced 2D X-ray Inspection Technician to support aerospace PCBA manufacturing. You will operate 2D X-ray equipment, interpret images, and document inspection results per customer requirements and IPC Class 3 standards.

The role requires 2+ years in PCBA inspection, familiarity with IPC-A-610 Class 3 and J-STD-001 Class 3, and the ability to identify hidden defects while maintaining meticulous records.

Qualifications

• Two or more years of experience in PCBA inspection or related tech role.
• Hands-on experience with 2D X-ray inspection equipment.
• Ability to interpret X-ray images and document results accurately.
• Familiar with IPC-A-610 Class 3 and J-STD-001 Class 3 criteria.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to make consistent decisions.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate 2D X-ray inspection for various inspections of complex PCBAs.
• Select inspection programs and optimize imaging parameters.
• Inspect BGAs/LGAs/QFNs and other solder joints not visible visually.
• Evaluate solder joints for defects and route nonconforming material.
• Document results, reference designators, measurements, and images.
• Work with Quality, Process Engineering, SMT, and Rework teams.
• Maintain image files and ensure traceability per aerospace requirements.
• Report equipment issues and participate in continuous-improvement efforts.

Skills

X-ray inspection

PCBAs knowledge

Image interpretation

Documentation

Attention to detail

Quality review

Tools

2D X-ray equipment

AXI/AOI equipment

Inspection software

Job description

We’re looking for an experienced, detail-oriented 2D X-Ray Inspection Technician to support the manufacture of high-reliability IPC Class 3 aerospace printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). In this role, you will independently operate 2D X-ray inspection equipment, interpret images, identify hidden solder and assembly defects, and document inspection results in accordance with customer requirements, approved procedures, and applicable workmanship standards.

This is a technician-level position requiring sound judgement, strong knowledge of electronic assemblies, and the ability to distinguish acceptable process variation from conditions requiring further evaluation or corrective action.

What You’ll Do

Set up and operate 2D X‑ray inspection equipment for first‑article, in‑process, final, and investigative inspections of complex PCBAs.

Select approved inspection programs and optimize imaging parameters—including magnification, contrast, angle, and exposure to obtain clear, repeatable images.

Inspect BGAs, LGAs, QFNs, bottom‑terminated components, through‑hole connections, and other solder joints that cannot be fully evaluated through visual inspection.

Evaluate assemblies for solder bridges, opens, insufficient or excessive solder, solder balls, misalignment, voiding, incomplete wetting, foreign material, and other process abnormalities.

Identify indications of head‑in‑pillow, fractured joints, poor solder distribution, and other defects requiring additional engineering or quality review.

Measure and document solder voiding or other inspection characteristics against approved customer, drawing, and process requirements.

Interpret assembly drawings, inspection criteria, work instructions, customer specifications, and applicable requirements of IPC‑A‑610 Class 3 and J‑STD‑001 Class 3.

Record inspection results, defect classifications, reference designators, images, measurements, and traceability information accurately in the appropriate quality or manufacturing systems.

Clearly identify suspected non‑conforming material and route it through the established quality review and disposition process.

Work closely with Quality, Process Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, SMT, and Rework personnel to verify defects and support root‑cause investigations.

Assist with defect validation following rework or process adjustments and confirm that corrective actions achieved the intended result.

Recognize recurring defect patterns and communicate trends that may indicate stencil, printing, placement, reflow, component, or design‑related issues.

Maintain inspection image files and objective evidence in accordance with aerospace documentation and record‑retention requirements.

Perform routine equipment checks, cleanliness activities, calibration verifications, and basic preventive maintenance as authorized.

Immediately report equipment malfunctions, image‑quality concerns, calibration issues, or conditions that could affect inspection reliability.

Follow all ESD, foreign object debris (FOD), material‑handling, safety, and product‑protection requirements.

Support continuous‑improvement activities aimed at improving defect detection, inspection consistency, process capability, and first‑pass yield.

What We’re Looking For

Two or more years of experience in PCBA inspection, electronics manufacturing, or a closely related technical role preferred.

Hands‑on experience operating 2D X‑ray, automated X‑ray inspection (AXI), AOI, or similar electronic inspection equipment.

Working knowledge of PCB assemblies, component package types, solder‑joint formation, SMT processes, and common manufacturing defects.

Ability to interpret X‑ray images accurately and consistently while working with densely populated, multilayer, and high‑reliability assemblies.

Familiarity with IPC‑A‑610 Class 3 acceptance criteria; knowledge of J‑STD‑001 Class 3 requirements is strongly preferred.

Experience working in an AS9100, aerospace, defense, medical, or other highly regulated manufacturing environment preferred.

Ability to read assembly drawings, bills of material, component datasheets, travelers, work instructions, and customer‑specific requirements.

Strong attention to detail and the ability to make consistent inspection decisions without sacrificing quality to meet production demands.

Proficiency in documenting defects using accurate terminology, reference designators, measurements, and supporting images.

Strong communication and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to explain inspection findings clearly to Quality, Engineering, and Production personnel.

Ability to work independently, manage inspection priorities, and elevate uncertain or potentially critical conditions appropriately.

Current IPC‑A‑610 certification is preferred; willingness to obtain or maintain required certifications is expected.

Why Join Us

You’ll play a critical role in protecting the quality and reliability of electronics used in demanding aerospace applications. Your technical judgment will help ensure that hidden solder connections and complex assemblies meet stringent IPC Class 3, customer, and regulatory requirements before products leave our facility.

Pay Range

$25 - $30 USD

ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export‑controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export‑control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.

Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.