Aerospace 2D X-Ray Inspector – IPC Class 3 Expert

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 the manufacture of IPC Class 3 aerospace PCBAs. You will independently operate 2D X-ray equipment, interpret images, identify hidden solder defects, and document inspection results per customer requirements and workmanship standards.

The role requires sound judgment, strong knowledge of electronic assemblies, and the ability to distinguish acceptable process variation from conditions needing corrective action.

Qualifications

• 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, 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 and work with densely populated, multilayer assemblies.
• Familiarity with IPC-A-610 Class 3 acceptance criteria; J-STD-001 Class 3 preferred.
• Experience in regulated aerospace/defense or medical manufacturing preferred.
• Reading assembly drawings, travelers, and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate 2D X-ray inspection equipment for various inspections (first-article, in-process, final, investigative).
• Select approved inspection programs and optimize imaging parameters to obtain clear, repeatable images.
• Inspect BGAs, LGAs, QFNs, and other joints not evaluable by visuals.
• Evaluate assemblies for solder bridges, opens, voiding, misalignment, and defects.
• Identify head-in-pillow, fractured joints, poor solder distribution, or other defects.
• Measure and document solder voiding against customer and process specs.
• Record inspection results and traceability in quality systems.
• Route suspected nonconforming material for review and disposition.
• Collaborate with Quality, Process Eng, SMT, and Rework to verify defects.
• Assist with defect validation after rework and corrective actions.
• Recognize recurring defect patterns and communicate trends to improve process quality.
• Maintain inspection image files and evidence per aerospace documentation rules.
• Perform routine equipment checks, calibration verifications, and basic maintenance.
• Report equipment malfunctions or image-quality concerns promptly.
• Follow ESD, FOD, and safety requirements; support continuous-improvement efforts.

Skills

2D X-Ray Inspection

AXI

AOI

PCB knowledge

Inspection reporting

Tools

2D X-ray equipment

AXI machine

AOI tooling

Job description

Rocket EMS is seeking an experienced 2D X-ray Inspection Technician to support the manufacture of IPC Class 3 aerospace PCBAs. You will independently operate 2D X-ray equipment, interpret images, identify hidden solder defects, and document inspection results per customer requirements and workmanship standards.

The role requires sound judgment, strong knowledge of electronic assemblies, and the ability to distinguish acceptable process variation from conditions needing corrective action.