Lead Transformer Drying & Filling Technician

Sanmina Corporation; Tennessee; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanmina Corporation is seeking a Lead Transformer Drying & Filling Technician in the U.S. This role involves leading drying and filling processes for transformers, ensuring compliance with engineering requirements and quality standards. The ideal candidate should have over 5 years of manufacturing experience, 3+ years in transformer production, and a technical degree. Responsibilities include process leadership, operator training, and equipment troubleshooting. Key skills include attention to detail, knowledge of drying processes, and ability to read technical documentation. Competitive benefits and growth opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 3+ years of experience in liquid-filled transformer manufacturing.
• Experience with process control in a quality-critical environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead active part loading and drying processes.
• Operate and support setup of drying and filling equipment.
• Monitor process parameters to ensure quality standards are met.

Skills

Ability to read technical documentation

Knowledge of drying processes

Ability to operate vacuum systems

Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Education

Associate degree in Electrical Technology or related field

Tools

PLC controlled processing equipment

Measurement and inspection tools

Overhead cranes and hoists

Job description

Lead Transformer Drying & Filling Technician - (108601)

Location: 13061 - Oil Gas Primary Sourcing - Houston, TX 77042 US (Primary)

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 Transformer Drying & Filling Technician

Position Summary

The Lead Transformer Drying & Filling Technician is responsible for leading active part loading, drying, LFH/autoclave processing, vacuum operations, and insulating liquid filling for liquid-filled distribution transformers in accordance with engineering requirements, process specifications, and quality standards.

This role owns process setup, process stability, operator training, and conformance within the drying and filling process cell, where time management skills and attention to detail are paramount.

This position is intended for experienced manufacturing personnel who will serve as part of the seed team during facility ramp-up, supporting process stabilization, operator training, equipment readiness, and production quality. The role interfaces with both tanking and downstream assembly operations, as required by production flow.

Drying & Filling Process Operations

• Perform active part loading and unloading for drying and filling operations in accordance with process specifications, work instructions, and production requirements
• Operate and support setup of LFH, autoclave, vacuum drying, and related process equipment in accordance with approved procedures and defined process requirements
• Execute drying, vacuum, and liquid filling cycles while maintaining conformance to engineering and quality requirements
• Prepare units for drying, vacuum processing, sealing, and liquid filling in accordance with work instructions
• Support development and refinement of standard work and best practices for drying and filling operations during ramp-up

Process Control & Monitoring

• Set, adjust, and monitor process parameters in accordance with approved engineering requirements, process specifications, and quality standards
• Verify completion of required process steps, cycle conditions, and in-process checks as defined by standard procedures
• Identify process deviations, equipment issues, or non-conforming conditions and support corrective action in accordance with established procedures
• Support troubleshooting of drying, vacuum, filling, or related process issues in coordination with maintenance, engineering, and supervision as needed
• Maintain required cleanliness, process discipline, and documentation throughout drying and filling operations to protect transformer integrity

Quality Control & Inspection

• Inspect components, active parts, tanks, fittings, and related materials prior to processing for condition, completeness, and conformance
• Verify readiness, fit-up, preparation status, and process readiness prior to starting drying process.
• Accurately log production data, material traceability, and quality yields into the ERP or production tracking system
• Identify defects such as damaged components, poor preparation, contamination concerns, missing hardware, or non-conforming process conditions and take corrective action
• Identify recurring process or quality issues and support corrective actions to improve consistency and reduce rework
• Safely handle transformer components, active parts, tanks, fittings, hoses, and related materials using appropriate lifting or handling equipment
• Use overhead cranes, hoists, fixtures, and other approved devices as required
• Stage materials and process equipment to support efficient workflow while maintaining organization and traceability

Tools, Equipment & Workplace Standards

• Operation of PLC controlled automated processing plant, inclusive of industrial autoclave and application specific electrical automated test systems.
• Perform routine equipment and tool checks and report issues as needed
• Support troubleshooting of equipment, tooling, or process issues as required
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with company standards
• Use hand tools, fixtures, hoses, valves, fittings, and related process equipment required for drying and filling operations

Training & Team Support

• Support training and qualification of new operators during factory ramp-up
• Share process knowledge, workmanship expectations, and quality standards with team members
• Assist supervisors in identifying process gaps, training needs, and improvement opportunities
• Interface with tanking and downstream assembly operations as required by production flow

Required Qualifications

Education

• Associate degree (AAS) in Electrical Technology, Mechanical Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Technology, or related field strongly preferred

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or process equipment environment
• 3+ years of experience in liquid-filled transformer manufacturing, industrial vacuum systems, drying processes, oil processing, filling operations, or similar manufacturing environments
• Prior experience supporting process setup, adjustment, or parameter control in a quality-critical manufacturing environment preferred

Skills

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, work instructions, process specifications, and production documentation to support down-stream manufacturing processes such as Final Assembly Tanking Operations and Fill.
• Ability to run predefined automated drying process, and monitor process parameters in accordance with defined engineering and quality requirements
• Proficiency with measurement and inspection tools such as tape measures, calipers, gauges, and related equipment.
• Strong Electrical and Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to identify, troubleshoot, and respond to process, equipment, or quality issues
• Ability to support startup, training, and process stabilization activities in a manufacturing environment

Safety & Certifications

• Experience with overhead cranes, hoists, or lifting equipment preferred; certification may be required
• Ability to follow all workplace safety requirements and reinforce safe work practices with others
• Ability to safely work around heated equipment, vacuum systems, insulating liquids, heavy components, and moving equipment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in liquid-filled transformer manufacturing or similar industrial process environments
• Experience with autoclave, LFH, vacuum drying, oil processing, liquid filling, filtration, or related equipment
• Experience supporting tanking or related downstream transformer manufacturing operations
• Experience supporting process improvements, operator training, startup activities, or process documentation in a quality-critical environment
• Demonstrated ability to lead by example in quality, safety, and execution

Additional Requirements

• Ability and willingness to travel Internationally for training, equipment commissioning, or support activities, including extended travel during initial facility ramp-up
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the role as outlined below

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods during the work shift
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 lbs, with or without assistance
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks involving hand and arm motion
• Ability to bend, reach, climb, and work in a manufacturing environment around moving equipment
• Ability to safely work in an industrial environment using required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Industrial manufacturing environment
• Exposure to heated equipment, vacuum systems, insulating liquids, hoses, fittings, heavy components, and moving equipment
• Requires standing, lifting, and repetitive manufacturing and process-related tasks

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.