Senior SMT/PCBA Process Engineer: NPI & Optimization

Actalent; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 87,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability (short/long-term)

HSA

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to lead NPI from concept to production launch in a San Diego SMT/PCBA environment. You will develop, optimize, and document manufacturing processes, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes data analysis, root cause investigations, and collaboration with quality, facilities, and supply chain to ensure safe, efficient production and high yield.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of process engineering experience in manufacturing.
• Hands-on SMT manufacturing experience across full process: solder print, pick and place, reflow, inspection, rework.
• Experience with NPI and process development from concept to production launch.
• Experience supporting PCBA or circuit card assembly environments.
• Ability to independently make technical decisions based on SMT manufacturing experience and electronics knowledge.
• Knowledge of SPC, FMEA, DOE, Lean Manufacturing, and capability studies.
• Strong root cause analysis and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; document processes clearly.
• Eligible under ITAR requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead NPI activities from introduction to production launch.
• Develop and optimize SMT/PCBA processes to improve efficiency, quality, and yield.
• Troubleshoot complex process issues on SMT lines and drive corrective actions.
• Create and maintain detailed work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and implement data-driven solutions.
• Lead root cause investigations and failure analysis activities.
• Evaluate equipment, tooling, and methods to meet process requirements.
• Collaborate with quality, production, facilities, EHS, customers, and supply chain.
• Support operator training with clear process guidance and documentation.
• Manage multiple engineering projects, prioritizing tasks and communicating progress.

Skills

SMT manufacturing

NPI

PCBA

SPC

FMEA

DOE

Lean Manufacturing

Root cause analysis

Communication

ITAR eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Job description

Actalent is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to lead NPI from concept to production launch in a San Diego SMT/PCBA environment. You will develop, optimize, and document manufacturing processes, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across cross-functional teams.

The role emphasizes data analysis, root cause investigations, and collaboration with quality, facilities, and supply chain to ensure safe, efficient production and high yield.