LEAD CORE STACKING TECHNICIAN

Sanmina; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanmina, a leader in integrated manufacturing solutions, is hiring a Lead Core Stacking Technician in Houston, Texas. This senior role involves overseeing transformer core assembly, mentoring technicians, and ensuring alignment with engineering specifications. Candidates should have a high school diploma, 5+ years in precision manufacturing, and strong expertise in technical drawings. The position offers an opportunity to lead in a fast-paced environment. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in precision manufacturing or assembly.
• 2+ years in a lead or mentoring role.
• Advanced proficiency with precision measurement tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead shift operations and ensure production quality targets are met.
• Mentor and train Core Stacking Technicians.
• Perform comprehensive quality assessments of materials.

Skills

Attention to detail

Mechanical assembly

Troubleshooting

Leadership

Manual dexterity

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate degree in related field

Tools

Precision measurement tools

Overhead cranes

Job description

Sanmina Corporation (Nasdaq: SANM) is a leading integrated manufacturing solutions provider serving the fastest growing segments of the global Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) market. Recognized as a technology leader, Sanmina Corporation provides end‑to‑end manufacturing solutions, delivering superior quality and support to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) primarily in the communications networks, defense and aerospace, industrial and semiconductor systems, medical, multimedia, computing and storage, automotive and clean technology sectors. Sanmina Corporation has facilities strategically located in key regions throughout the world.

Lead Core Stacking Technician

Position Summary

The Lead Core Stacking Technician is a senior operational role responsible for overseeing and performing the advanced assembly of transformer core structures using precision‑cut laminations in accordance with engineering drawings and build specifications. This role requires expert‑level attention to detail, a deep understanding of alignment and sequencing, and the ability to mentor junior technicians. The Lead will ensure core assemblies are built accurately and consistently, and will serve as the primary resource for troubleshooting and continuous process improvement during the initial facility ramp‑up and ongoing production.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Production Oversight
  • Lead daily shift operations for the core stacking area, ensuring production schedules and quality targets are met.
  • Mentor and train Core Stacking Technicians on proper assembly, quality inspection, and safety procedures.
  • Serve as the primary subject matter expert for complex core stacking configurations and assembly optimization.
• Core Assembly & Advanced Stacking
  • Direct and execute complex assembly of transformer core components (yokes and legs) using pre‑cut laminations.
  • Execute assembly procedures to ensure proper sequencing and alignment per work instructions and technical drawings.
  • Proactively monitor and analyze stacking performance, implementing immediate and long‑term adjustments to maintain consistent and superior stack integrity, alignment, and dimensional accuracy.
  • Prepare core assemblies for downstream operations.
• Quality Assurance & Auditing
  • Perform comprehensive, final assessments of laminations prior to assembly for damage, coating condition, or non‑conformance.
  • Lead the inspection process, auditing the verification of alignment, sequencing, and dimensional accuracy of assembled core components performed by the team.
  • Ensure rigorous conformance to all engineering specifications and work instructions, serving as the final point of escalation for quality issues.
  • Accurately log and oversee the logging of production data, material traceability, and quality yields into the ERP or production tracking system.
• Material Handling
  • Safely direct the handling and transport of laminations and core components using overhead cranes and lifting equipment.
  • Oversee the staging of materials for efficient assembly while maintaining organization and traceability.
• Tools, Equipment & Process Excellence
  • Develop and perform complex preventive maintenance (PM) and routine equipment checks on tools, fixtures, and assembly aids beyond basic requirements.
  • Lead troubleshooting efforts for major assembly or process issues to quickly restore stable operation and minimize rework.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives and support equipment commissioning processes.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with company standards.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 5+ years of experience preferred in a precision manufacturing or assembly environment, with 3+ years specifically in mechanical or precision assembly work.
• 2+ years of experience in a lead, senior, or mentoring role within a manufacturing setting, or demonstrated ability to train other Technicians and support process improvements.
• Demonstrated expert ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and work instructions.
• Advanced proficiency with precision measurement tools (calipers, gauges, etc.).
• Proven expertise in troubleshooting assembly or build issues.
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree (AAS) in Electrical Technology, Mechanical Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field strongly preferred.
• Direct experience in transformer manufacturing, electrical equipment assembly, or similar industries.
• Experience working with precision assemblies requiring tight tolerances.
• Experience with overhead cranes or lifting equipment.

Additional Requirements

• Ability and willingness to travel internationally for training, equipment commissioning, or support activities, including extended travel during initial facility ramp‑up.

This position deals with ITAR facilities and applicants must be a US Citizen or a lawful permanent resident.

Sanmina is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity.