Engineering Technician - Electronics (Soldering Specialist)

Spectraforce Technologies; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Spectraforce Technologies is seeking an Engineering Technician - Electronics (Soldering Specialist) in Los Angeles for a 12‑month contract to hire. The role focuses on advanced prototyping, PCB rework, and hardware testing in a fast-paced R&D environment.

The candidate will perform fine-pitch SMT rework, component replacements, and wiring harness assembly, collaborating with Electrical and Mechanical Engineering teams to ensure high-quality results.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on PCB soldering and electronic assembly experience.
• Experience using lead-free solder processes and working in R&D/lab environments.

Responsibilities

• Perform precision SMT rework to support prototypes and new product development.
• Replace and modify electronic components on PCBs; rework fine-pitch components and 0201 devices.
• Build and modify custom wire harnesses and cable assemblies; support electro-mechanical prototype assembly.
• Support product validation, engineering testing, and troubleshooting; document modifications and test results.
• Operate lab test equipment (DMMs, oscilloscopes, power supplies, rework stations) and assist in lab testing.

Skills

PCB soldering

Electronic assembly

Fine-pitch soldering

Microscope inspection

Documentation and troubleshooting

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Soldering stations

Heat guns

Preheaters

DMMs

Oscilloscopes

Job description

Job Title: Engineering Technician - Electronics (Soldering Specialist)

Duration: 12 Months | Contract to hire.

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Worksite: Onsite | Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Position Overview

Client is seeking Engineering Technicians - Electronics (Soldering Specialists) to support advanced product development, prototype assembly, PCB rework, testing, and engineering validation activities.

This is a highly skilled, hands‑on role supporting Electrical and Mechanical Engineering teams in a fast‑paced R&D environment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience performing fine‑pitch SMT rework, PCB modifications, and prototype assembly while maintaining a high level of quality and precision.

These are temp-to-hire opportunities with an initial assignment duration of 12 months, with the potential for extension or conversion based on performance and business needs.

Key Responsibilities

PCB Soldering & Rework

• Perform precision SMT rework to support new product development and engineering prototypes
• Replace and modify electronic components on printed circuit boards
• Perform rework on fine‑pitch components and 0201 passive devices
• Execute trace cuts, jumper wire modifications, and engineering change implementations
• Maintain high-quality soldering standards using lead‑free solder processes

Prototype Assembly

• Build and modify custom wire harnesses and cable assemblies
• Support electro‑mechanical prototype assembly activities
• Follow detailed assembly instructions, schematics, BOMs, and engineering drawings
• Ensure prototypes meet quality and functionality requirements

Engineering & Laboratory Support

• Partner with Electrical and Mechanical Engineering teams on development projects
• Support product validation and engineering testing activities
• Assist with troubleshooting and analysis of hardware issues
• Document modifications, findings, and test results

Test Equipment Operation

• Utilize:
  • Digital Multimeters (DMMs)
  • Oscilloscopes
  • Power Supplies
  • Rework Stations
  • Heat Guns
  • Preheaters
• Assist with laboratory and field testing of electronic equipment and systems

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum 5 years of hands‑on PCB soldering and electronic assembly experience
• Experience using lead‑free solder processes
• Experience working in an engineering development, prototype, or R&D laboratory environment

Technical Requirements

• Ability to perform:
  • SMT rework
  • Component replacement
  • PCB modifications
  • Fine‑pitch soldering
  • Wire routing and jumper installation
• Ability to rework components down to 0201 package sizes
• Experience working under a microscope
• Ability to interpret:
  • PCB rework instructions
  • Electrical schematics
  • Assembly drawings
  • Mechanical drawings
  • Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Knowledge of electronic components, wire gauges, and connector systems
• Proficiency with:
  • Soldering stations
  • Heat guns
  • Preheaters
  • Hand assembly tools
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently

Certification Requirements

Required

• IPC‑A‑610 Certification and/or
• J‑STD‑001 Certification

Suppliers should clearly indicate current IPC certifications on submitted resumes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to rework 0.4mm pitch BGAs
• Experience in electronics product development environments
• Experience with:
  • Thermal testing
  • Environmental testing
  • IP rating testing
• Basic RF electronics knowledge
• Familiarity with:
  • Conformal coatings
  • Thermal interface materials
  • Gaskets
  • Thread-locking compounds
• Aerospace, defense, communications, or advanced electronics manufacturing experience

Physical Requirements

• Lift up to 25 pounds
• Perform repetitive hand and fine dexterity movements
• Work under a microscope for extended periods
• Handle small electronic components and assemblies
• Move throughout laboratory environments