AOI Inspector

Intelligent Manufacturing Solutions (IMS); Londonderry (NH); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing solutions provider is seeking an AOI Operator to operate Automated Optical Inspection equipment for quality verification of printed circuit boards (PCBAs). The role involves identifying defects, conducting inspections, and maintaining product quality. Candidates should have at least a high school diploma and experience in PCB assembly or quality inspection. Attention to detail and communication skills are essential. Training on AOI equipment may be provided, making it accessible for motivated individuals.

Qualifications

• Proficient in reading PCB layout diagrams, assembly drawings, and BOM.
• Basic knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards.
• Computer literacy for data entry and basic software navigation.

Responsibilities

• Operate AOI machines to inspect PCBAs for defects.
• Review and verify inspection results.
• Document and track inspection data and defect trends.

Skills

Understanding of PCB assembly processes

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Teamwork skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification in electronics or manufacturing

Tools

AOI software (e.g., Koh Young, Mirtec, CyberOptics)

Job description

Overview

The AOI Operator is responsible for operating Automated Optical Inspection equipment to verify the quality of assembled printed circuit boards (PCBAs). The operator ensures defect detection, accurate inspection, and reporting to support high product quality and process efficiency. This role plays a critical part in identifying assembly defects before they move to the next manufacturing stage.

Responsibilities

• Operate AOI machines (2D/3D) to inspect PCBAs for soldering defects, component misplacements, polarity errors, and other visual defects.
• Load and unload PCB panels to/from AOI equipment safely and efficiently.
• Review and verify inspection results, including differentiating between false calls and true defects.
• Perform first article inspection using AOI and manual visual inspection as required.
• Interpret AOI inspection reports and categorize defects per IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-610).
• Communicate non-conformities to the appropriate teams (e.g., SMT technicians, QA, rework).
• Document and track inspection data and defect trends.
• Assist in machine setup, maintenance checks, and basic troubleshooting of AOI systems.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in inspection and quality control processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures and ESD protocols.

Interfaces / Accountability

• Quality Assurance Team – For reporting defects, rework verification, and quality feedback.
• Process / SMT Engineers – For providing inspection feedback and discussing false calls or systemic issues.

Decisions / Authority

• Determine acceptance or rejection of inspected boards based on AOI results and IPC standards.
• Escalate inspection issues or equipment malfunction to appropriate personnel.
• Make judgment calls on false positives versus real defects within defined limits.
• Recommend adjustments to AOI programming to reduce false calls (with engineer support).

Impact Of Error

• High impact – Undetected defects can result in product failures, costly rework, missed deliveries, and customer dissatisfaction.
• Incorrect rejection increases workload and inspection bottlenecks.
• Data entry errors can distort defect trend analysis and lead to incorrect process conclusions.

Qualifications

• Understanding of PCB assembly processes, components, and soldering defects.
• Proficient in reading PCB layout diagrams, assembly drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Familiarity with AOI software (e.g., Koh Young, Mirtec, CyberOptics, or equivalent).
• Basic knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards.
• Attention to detail with strong visual inspection ability.
• Computer literacy (data entry, basic software navigation).
• Good communication and teamwork skills.

Education / Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical certification or coursework in electronics or manufacturing is a plus.
• Minimum 1-2 years of experience in PCB assembly or quality inspection.
• Prior experience with AOI equipment preferred but not mandatory; on-the-job training may be provided.
• Familiarity with SMT and reflow processes is a plus.

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.