Lead Cable Assembly Technician - Class 3 & CIS Expert

Ppsi; Houston (TX); On-site; Full time

Job description

Experienced technician who independently builds, terminates, and tests a range of cable assemblies and wire harnesses with minimal supervision. Serves as a resource for Level I technicians and contributes to process improvement efforts.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the most complex cable assembly and wire harness builds, including high-reliability aerospace and defense programs
• Serve as the subject matter expert on IPC/WHMA-A-620 Class 3 workmanship standards and cable assembly best practices
• Perform and oversee precision termination of specialized connectors including fiber optic, high-density, and coaxial assemblies
• Collaborate with engineering on new product introduction, design for manufacturability reviews, and first article production
• Refine work instructions, assembly procedures, and visual aids for cable assembly operations
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for cable assembly non-conformances
• Serve as a working lead, coordinating daily work assignments and priorities on the production floor
• Train, mentor, and evaluate technicians at all levels; support skills certification and advancement
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction
• Support internal and customer audits by demonstrating process compliance and workmanship standards
• Interface with quality engineering on inspection criteria, test requirements, and process validation
• Maintain expert-level proficiency across all cable assembly tools, equipment, and test systems

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in cable assembly and wire harness manufacturing
• Expert knowledge of IPC/WHMA-A-620 standards, with demonstrated Class 3 build experience
• IPC/WHMA-A-620 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification required
• Proven ability to lead teams, coordinate production activities, and mentor technicians
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and corrective action
• Ability to read and interpret complex schematics, engineering drawings, and specifications independently
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interface with engineering, quality, and management
• Experience working in an AS9100D-certified or equivalent quality management system environment

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC/WHMA-A-620 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certification
• IPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) or Trainer (CIT) certification
• Experience with ITAR-controlled programs and defense manufacturing requirements
• Experience with fiber optic termination and testing
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools