Process Engineer – Electronics Manufacturing (SMT/PCBA)

PICA Manufacturing Solutions; Derry (NH); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

PICA Manufacturing Solutions is seeking a hands-on Process Engineer to support and optimize SMT and electronic assembly manufacturing operations. You will program, develop, and sustain manufacturing processes in a high-mix PCB environment, working across Production, Quality, and Leadership to drive continuous improvement.

The role requires strong experience programming SMT equipment, creating reflow profiles, troubleshooting soldering defects, and supporting new product introductions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent manufacturing experience.
• 3+ years of electronics manufacturing experience (SMT environment preferred).
• Hands-on experience programming PnP machines, AOI systems, and stencil/jet printers.
• Experience creating and validating reflow oven profiles.
• Strong troubleshooting skills in SMT processes.

Responsibilities

• Program and optimize SMT equipment including Pick-and-Place machines.
• Develop and validate reflow oven profiles for leaded and lead-free assemblies.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to improve yield.
• Develop, maintain, and document work instructions, set-up sheets, and processes.
• Support audits, IPC standards adherence, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

PnP programming

AOI programming

Stencil/Jet printers

Reflow profiles

SMT troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

AOI systems

Stencil printers

Jet printers

MES systems

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Process Engineer to support and optimize our SMT and electronic assembly manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for programming, developing, and sustaining manufacturing processes within a high-mix PCB assembly environment.

The ideal candidate has strong experience programming SMT equipment, creating reflow oven profiles, troubleshooting soldering defects, and supporting new product introductions (NPI).

This is a highly visible role that works cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and Leadership to drive continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.

Key Responsibilities

SMT Equipment Programming & Optimization

• Program and optimize Pick-and-Place (PnP) machines
• Program and support Stencil Printers and/or Jet Printers
• Develop and fine-tune AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) programs

Reflow & Thermal Process Engineering

• Develop and validate reflow oven profiles for leaded and lead-free assemblies
• Use thermal profiling tools to verify: Ramp rates, Time above Liquidus, peak temperature.
• Troubleshoot solder-related defects including Solder balls, tombstoning, head-in-pillow, voiding.

Process Development & Continuous Improvement

• Support NPI builds and process validation
• Develop and maintain work instructions, setup sheets, and process documentation.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
• Improve first-pass yield and reduce rework
• Optimize cycle times and line efficiency

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
• Support audits and customer quality initiatives
• Participate in DFM reviews and provide manufacturability feedback

Cross-Functional Support

• Provide technical guidance and training to operators and technicians
• Collaborate with Production, Quality, and Supply Chain teams
• Assist in evaluating new equipment and process technologies

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent manufacturing experience
• 3+ years of experience in electronics manufacturing (SMT environment preferred)
• Hands-on experience programming: PnP machines, AOI systems, Stencil and/or Jet printers
• Experience creating and validating reflow oven profiles
• Strong troubleshooting skills in SMT processes

Preferred

• IPC certification (CIS or CIT)
• Experience with MES systems
• Knowledge of conformal coating or selective solder processes
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma training
• Experience in ISO-regulated environments

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Detail-oriented with strong documentation discipline
• Data-driven mindset
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Clear technical communication skills

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor environment (ESD-controlled areas)
• Interaction with automated SMT equipment
• Standing and walking required during process support activities

Why PICA?

At PICA Product Development, we build products that matter. From medical and industrial electronics to defense and commercial technologies, our team takes pride in delivering high-quality products to customers worldwide. We offer a collaborative work environment where employees are encouraged to learn new skills, contribute ideas, and grow their careers in advanced electronics manufacturing.