Precision SMT Operator: PCB Assembly & Quality

Rocket-Ems; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket EMS is seeking an SMT Operator to operate and support surface mount technology production processes, ensuring high-quality PCB assemblies. You’ll work hands-on with automated equipment and collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to maintain process accuracy, throughput, and compliance with customer and industry standards.

You will set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment including solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and supporting

Qualifications

• Experience in SMT or electronics manufacturing preferred.
• Familiarity with SMT equipment (pickup-and-place, reflow, printers, AOI/AXI) is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions and IPC standards (IPC-A-610 preferred).
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment, including solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and supporting automation.
• Load and unload printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) while following ESD, MSD, and handling requirements.
• Verify correct component placement, orientation, and solder quality during production runs.
• Identify and report defects such as missing components, misalignment, solder defects, or process deviations.
• Follow travelers, MPIs, work instructions, and production schedules to ensure builds meet customer specifications.
• Perform first-piece checks and in-process inspections as required.
• Assist with basic machine maintenance, nozzle changes, feeder setup, and cleanliness.
• Communicate issues, pass-downs, and improvement opportunities to leads, supervisors, and engineers.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying recurring defects or process trends.

Skills

SMT experience

Attention to detail

IPC standards

Job description

Rocket EMS is seeking an SMT Operator to operate and support surface mount technology production processes, ensuring high-quality PCB assemblies. You’ll work hands-on with automated equipment and collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams to maintain process accuracy, throughput, and compliance with customer and industry standards.

You will set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment including solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and supporting