Machine Operator - PCB Manufacturing

Aerotek; California (MO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth opportunities

Potential leadership roles

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a Machine Operator – SMT Production in Sorrento Valley to set up and operate SMT equipment for PCB assembly. You will perform changeovers, load programs, verify placements, and document results in a quality-driven, ESD-controlled environment.

The role emphasizes precise setup, program monitoring, and adherence to no-phone policies, with a standard schedule and potential growth into leadership as the operation expands.

Qualifications

• Experience operating SMT equipment in a contract manufacturing or electronics environment.
• Ability to perform machine setup, changeovers, and feeder adjustments.
• Proficiency in loading/running programs on machine interfaces and monitoring processes.
• Attention to detail when verifying component placement, orientation, and polarity.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate SMT machines for PCB manufacturing.
• Perform machine changeovers, including mechanical adjustments and feeder setup.
• Use the machine interface to load and run manufacturing programs.
• Review instructions, BOMs, and setup sheets for each job.
• Verify placements, orientation, and polarity during runs to ensure accuracy.
• Monitor for defects, document results and actions.
• Maintain production quality and achieve output targets.
• Adhere to ESD procedures and the no-phone policy on the floor.

Tools

PC-based machine interface

BOM reading

Job description

Job Description

Machine Operator – SMT Production - $21/hr - Sorrento Valley

Job Description

The Machine Operator will set up and operate surface-mount technology (SMT) equipment used to build printed circuit boards. This role involves performing machine changeovers and mechanical adjustments, configuring feeders, loading and running production programs through the machine’s computer interface, and verifying component placement and polarity before and during production runs. The Machine Operator monitors production quality, documents all work performed, and ensures that quality standards and manufacturing output targets are consistently achieved.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate SMT machines used in automated manufacturing of printed circuit boards.
• Perform machine changeovers, including mechanical adjustments and feeder setup, to support different product builds.
• Use the machine’s computer interface to load and run manufacturing programs that control PCB builds.
• Review and follow detailed work instructions, bills of materials, and production setup sheets for each job.
• Verify component placements, orientation, and polarity prior to and during production runs to ensure accuracy.
• Monitor production for defects, identify issues promptly, and take corrective action as needed.
• Document all work performed, including setup parameters, production results, and any adjustments or corrective actions.
• Maintain production quality and ensure manufacturing counts and output goals are achieved.
• Operate automated manufacturing and packaging equipment safely and efficiently.
• Adhere to all ESD (electrostatic discharge) requirements and procedures in the production environment.
• Comply with all facility policies, including strict adherence to the no-phone policy on the manufacturing floor.
• Collaborate with the manufacturing team and align with team goals and production culture.

Essential Skills

• Hands‑on experience operating automated manufacturing machines, preferably SMT equipment.
• Proficiency in basic machine operation, including setup, adjustments, and routine changeovers.
• Ability to use computers to load, run, and monitor manufacturing programs and machine interfaces.
• Experience in a production or manufacturing environment, with an understanding of production workflows.
• Capability to read and follow work instructions, bills of materials, and production setup sheets accurately.
• Attention to detail when verifying component placement, orientation, and polarity on printed circuit boards.
• Ability to monitor production defects and implement appropriate corrective actions.
• Strong documentation skills to record setup information, production data, and quality-related activities.
• Commitment to following ESD safety procedures and general manufacturing floor rules, including a strict no-phone policy.
• Reliability and consistency in meeting production quality and output targets.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience operating SMT equipment in a contract manufacturing environment.
• Background in electronics or printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) manufacturing.
• Prior experience working in an ESD-controlled environment.
• Familiarity with packaging processes in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to assimilate into an established manufacturing team and support shared goals and culture.
• Willingness to grow into future roles, including potential leadership opportunities as the operation expands.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable manufacturing team where many employees have worked together for a long time, fostering a collaborative and supportive culture. The organization is experiencing significant growth, creating new opportunities for advancement and future leadership roles. They actively look for potential in their employees and focus on converting strong performers to full‑time employment, promoting based on capability and growth rather than tenure alone. You can expect a consistent schedule, a clear structure, and a workplace that values providing long‑term opportunity and career development for each team member.

Work Environment

This role is based in an ESD‑controlled manufacturing environment focused on electronics and printed circuit board assembly. Standard hours are 1:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with a regular 30‑minute meal break taken at the same time each day and minimal overtime expected. The production floor operates with automated SMT and other manufacturing and packaging equipment, and employees are expected to follow a