SMT Operator: Precision PCB Assembly & Quality Impact

Rocket-Ems; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket EMS in Santa Clara is seeking an SMT Operator to support surface mount technology production processes for high-quality PCB assemblies. You will work hands-on with automated equipment, ensuring accuracy, throughput, and compliance with customer and industry standards.

You will set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment and assist with basic maintenance while collaborating with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in SMT or electronics manufacturing preferred.
• Familiarity with SMT equipment (pick-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).
• Comfortable working 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 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 equipment operation

Attention to detail

IPC standards compliance

Team-oriented

Tools

Solder paste printers

Pick-and-place machines

Reflow ovens

AOI/AXI

Job description

Rocket EMS in Santa Clara is seeking an SMT Operator to support surface mount technology production processes for high-quality PCB assemblies. You will work hands-on with automated equipment, ensuring accuracy, throughput, and compliance with customer and industry standards.

You will set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment and assist with basic maintenance while collaborating with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.