Planning Engineer Trainee

ZipRecruiter; Sunnyvale (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in PCB manufacturing seeks a Planning Engineer, Trainee to review customer data and drawings, perform design rule checks, and create manufacturing data. The role offers training and involves collaboration with engineers to ensure effective PCB fabrication. Ideal candidates will have an Associate Degree and strong communication and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• 0-3 years experience as a PCB Planner/CAM Operator.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Import customer data into CAM systems.
• Create shop travelers and interpret customer documentation.
• Collaborate with process engineers for advanced processing.

Skills

Communication

Mathematical Skills

Organizational Skills

Attention to Detail

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Associate Degree

Tools

Valor

InCAM

ProCIM

Microsoft Office

Job description

ABOUT THE COMPANY:

Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly, specializing in high-quality, quick-turn, and complex prototypes. With over 35 years of experience, Sierra provides a seamless, end-to-end PCB solution—from design and fabrication to assembly and testing—all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale, California. The company offers extensive educational resources, including free online tools such as the Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, Material Selector, BOM and DFM Checkers, along with technical blogs, webinars, design guides, and its SierraConnect community forum. Sierra serves industries including aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and telecommunications, building PCBs to the highest standards and fostering innovation.

SUMMARY OF JOB FUNCTION:

The Planning Engineer, Trainee, is responsible for reviewing customer data and drawings, performing design rule checks, and creating manufacturing data, programs, and tools for PCB fabrication. The role includes creating shop travelers from customer documentation, interpreting specifications, and reviewing customer data and part history during the 30-60-90 day evaluation period.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Import customer data into CAM systems.
2. Perform design rule checks and plan jobs accordingly.
3. Create array configurations.
4. Create shop travelers, interpret customer documentation, and industry specifications.
5. Design multi-layer, impedance, blind/buried via stack-ups.
6. Collaborate with process engineers to evaluate and strategize for advanced processing as needed.
7. Address design issues with customers via our portal.
8. Maintain flexibility to ensure effective throughput, balancing planning and CAM functions based on department needs.
9. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS - KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Associate Degree (AA) or higher.
• 0-3 years experience as a PCB Planner/CAM Operator in a reputed PCB manufacturing company.
• Understanding of processes required to manufacture high-tech PCBs; training provided for trainees.
• Experience with Valor software, InCAM, ProCIM, InStack is a plus.
• Experience planning HDI, Flex, and Rigid Flex boards is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and PCB software (Valor & ProCIM).
• Strong mathematical skills and ability to interpret complex drawings.
• Flexibility to work extended hours as needed.
• Ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking, and attention to detail skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all management levels.
• Self-motivated with a sense of ownership and urgency.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

SUPERVISES: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Regularly talking, hearing, standing, walking, reaching, lifting up to 20 lbs., and using ladders as necessary.

ENVIRONMENT:

• Manufacturing facility with exposure to electronics assembly equipment and materials.
• May require working in controlled temperature and humidity environments.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required.

Salary Range: $20-$25 per hour plus benefits and perks.