SMT Process Engineer

Cybotic System; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Cybotic System in Houston is looking for a dedicated SMT Process Engineer to develop, optimize, and sustain Surface Mount Technology processes for PCBA manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in SMT process engineering and a strong background in developing and improving manufacturing processes. Responsibilities include driving yield improvements, supporting new product introductions, and ensuring process documentation. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills are essential for this fast-paced role.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in SMT process engineering or PCBA manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience supporting SMT production lines and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize SMT manufacturing processes.
• Drive yield improvement across SMT lines.
• Perform root cause analysis on SMT defects.
• Collaborate with design and NPI teams for DFM reviews.
• Monitor key performance metrics and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Strong experience with SMT equipment

Deep understanding of SMT processes

Experience with root cause analysis

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field

Tools

CAD/CAM software

MES/SFC systems

Job description

The SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes to support PCBA manufacturing. This role ensures process stability, yield improvement, and product quality through hands‑on engineering support, data‑driven analysis, and cross‑functional collaboration. The engineer will play a key role in New Product Introduction (NPI), process validation, and continuous improvement initiatives to support advanced electronic manufacturing programs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, configure, and optimize SMT manufacturing processes from NPI through mass production, ensuring readiness for scale and quality targets
• Drive yield improvement and process stability across SMT lines, including stencil printing, placement, reflow, and inspection
• Perform root cause analysis (RCA) on SMT defects (e.g., bridging, tombstoning, voiding, insufficient solder) and implement corrective and preventive actions
• Support SMT line setup, validation, and qualification, including process parameter development and DOE (Design of Experiments)
• Collaborate with Design and NPI teams to perform Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews and ensure smooth product launches
• Establish and maintain process documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, PFMEA, and control plans
• Monitor key performance metrics (yield, defect rate, cycle time, OEE) and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Support line balancing, capacity analysis, and throughput optimization to improve production efficiency
• Provide technical support and training to production teams on SMT processes, equipment, and best practices
• Work closely with Quality and Test Engineering teams to resolve manufacturing issues and improve product reliability
• Evaluate and implement new materials, equipment, and process technologies to enhance manufacturing capability
• Support customer audits, line tours, and technical discussions as needed

Preferred Skills

• Strong experience with SMT equipment, including: Pick‑and‑place Panasonic systems, Screen printers, Reflow Ersa ovens, AOI / SPI inspection systems
• Deep understanding of SMT processes: solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, inspection and defect analysis
• Experience with root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D, Fishbone), Design of Experiments (DOE), Process validation and qualification, Yield and defect reduction strategies
• Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
• Experience with CAD/CAM, MES/SFC systems, or process simulation tools is a plus
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with hands‑on troubleshooting ability
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑volume manufacturing environment
• Strong ownership, attention to detail, and sense of urgency
• Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and support production needs
• Experience in high‑volume PCBA or server manufacturing environments
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen methodologies
• Experience supporting NPI builds and ramp‑to‑production environments
• Experience with failure analysis techniques (cross‑section, dye & pry, X‑ray, etc.)

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in SMT process engineering or PCBA manufacturing environment
• Hands‑on experience supporting SMT production lines and equipment