Machine Operator - Through-Hole (Second Shift)
Carson City, NV
Through-Hole Operator
About the Role
As a Through-Hole Operator at Rocket EMS, you'll be an essential part of our PCB assembly process - ensuring all components are hand-placed, soldered, and inspected to the highest quality standards. You'll work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to build boards that meet IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3 workmanship standards. This position demands steady hands, sharp attention to detail, and the ability to follow precise build documentation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
- Review build documentation including MPIs, assembly drawings, ECOs, and customer requirements before starting work.
- Manually insert through-hole components onto printed circuit boards according to polarity, orientation, and bill of materials (BOM) requirements.
- Perform soldering operations using hand soldering tools, wave solder, or selective solder equipment.
- Inspect solder joints and component placement for compliance with IPC-A-610 workmanship standards.
- Identify and correct soldering or placement defects; escalated systemic or recurring issues to the Lead or Engineer.
- Perform basic rework and touch-up on solder joints when needed.
- Complete first-article verification and in-process inspection forms as required.
- Maintain clean, organized work areas and adhere to all ESD and MSD handling procedures.
- Record production data and communicate pass-downs and quality updates to supervisors.
- Support other assembly or rework areas as directed by Supervisor, Engineer, or Manager.
- Participate in continuous improvement and 5S initiatives to enhance quality and efficiency.
Qualifications
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
- Experience
- Minimum 2 years of experience in through-hole assembly or hand soldering in a contract manufacturing or electronics production environment.
- IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification (preferred or required depending on role level).
- Skills
- Strong soldering ability for both leaded and lead-free assemblies.
- Ability to read assembly drawings, schematics, and BOMs.
- Understanding of polarity, component identification, and color codes.
- Familiarity with selective and wave soldering processes.
- Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
- Basic computer literacy (MS Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Clear communication skills in English, both verbal and written.
Schedule
- 8-hour shift, Monday - Friday
- Overtime and weekends as needed
- Pay Range
- $20 - $24 USD
- ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.
- Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.
- 401(k) with company match
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Opportunities for advancement in a growing, technology-driven manufacturing environment