Hands-on SMT Lead Operator & Process Engineer

Patton, LLC; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Patton is seeking a hands-on SMT Lead Operator & Manufacturing Engineer to own our SMT cell end-to-end—planning, programming, setup, operation, quality, and continuous improvement. This player-coach role leads daily SMT production and drives process engineering including oven profiling, documentation, DFM, routings/BOM integrity, and equipment maintenance strategy.

The position requires 3+ years in automated electronics assembly with SMT programming/operation, IPC‑A‑610 proficiency, and hands-on

Qualifications

• 3+ years in automated electronics assembly with SMT programming/operation.
• Strong IPC-A-610 and rework capability.
• Experience drafting work instructions, routings, and ERP usage.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute daily SMT schedule; line changeovers and kitting.
• Operate and oversee stencil printer, pick-and-place, reflow, AOI; ensure IPC compliance.
• Lead root-cause analysis and yield improvement; mentor operators.
• Develop and maintain process docs, work instructions, and PFMEA basics.

Skills

Hands-on leadership

SMT programming

IPC-A-610 proficiency

Process optimization

DFM awareness

Education

Bachelor’s in Engineering or equivalent experience

Tools

ERP systems

PCB assembly equipment

Job description

Patton is seeking a hands-on SMT Lead Operator & Manufacturing Engineer to own our SMT cell end-to-end—planning, programming, setup, operation, quality, and continuous improvement. This player-coach role leads daily SMT production and drives process engineering including oven profiling, documentation, DFM, routings/BOM integrity, and equipment maintenance strategy.

The position requires 3+ years in automated electronics assembly with SMT programming/operation, IPC‑A‑610 proficiency, and hands-on