Conformal Coating Sr Tech or Engineer

Software Placement Group; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Software Placement Group is seeking a Conformal Coating Process Engineer to lead coating programs for PCB assemblies in a high-reliability environment. You will drive process control, defect reduction, and automation of selective coating systems.

The role emphasizes parameter definition, equipment troubleshooting, material evaluation, RCA/CAPA, NPI support, and creation of SOPs for production operators.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Science preferred).
• 3+ years of process engineering experience in PCBA conformal coating in high-reliability environments.
• Governing IPC standards knowledge: IPC-CC-830, IPC-A-610 Class 2 & 3, J-STD-001.

Responsibilities

• Define and validate coating parameters (spray, atomization, viscosity) to ensure quality.
• Program, maintain, and troubleshoot automated selective coating systems to optimize yield.
• Evaluate coating materials based on thermal, chemical, and moisture resistance.
• Conduct root cause analysis on coating defects and implement CAPA.
• Establish masking/jigs to protect connectors and test points during coating.
• Support NPI by defining coating requirements and performing DFM reviews.
• Create SOPs, process sheets, and operator training materials.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

PVA equipment

Nordson ASYMTEK

UV-curing ovens

Job description

Location: Not specified | Schedule: Full-time, on-site

Overview

A printed circuit board assembly contract manufacturer is seeking a Conformal Coating Process Engineer to serve as the subject matter expert for coating processes that protect PCBs from environmental stressors. This role is central to driving high-yield production, resolving coating defects, and managing automated selective coating systems.

What you'll do

• Define and validate coating application parameters, including spray patterns, atomization, nozzle performance, and viscosity management
• Program, maintain, and troubleshoot automated selective coating machines to optimize production efficiency
• Evaluate and select coating materials (acrylic, silicone, urethane, parylene, UV-curable) based on thermal, chemical, and moisture resistance requirements
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) on defects such as de-wetting and cracking, and implement Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA)
• Establish masking procedures and jigs to ensure precise coating application while protecting keep-out areas like connectors and test points
• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by defining coating requirements, acceptance criteria, and conducting Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews
• Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), process sheets, and training materials for production operators

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Science preferred)
• Minimum of 3 years of process engineering experience in PCBA, with a focus on conformal coating in high-reliability environments
• In-depth knowledge of IPC standards (IPC-CC-830, IPC-A-610 Class 2 & 3, J-STD-001)
• Proficient with selective coating equipment such as PVA and Nordson ASYMTEK, as well as curing ovens
• Comprehensive understanding of solvent-based and UV-cured chemistry
• Ability to stand or walk on the manufacturing floor to monitor processes
• Capable of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators
• Occasional lifting of equipment or boards weighing up to 25 lbs

Preferred qualifications

• Lean/Six Sigma certification
• SMTA Certified Process Engineer
• Experience with automated optical inspection (AOI) for conformal coating applications
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Why this role

This is an opportunity to drive innovation in conformal coating processes and enhance the reliability of electronic components in a PCB assembly manufacturing environment.