Surface Mount Technology Supervisor

Recruiters of Distinction; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 334,800 - 502,200; Full time

Job summary

A leading electronics manufacturing company in KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an SMT Supervisor responsible for overseeing the Surface Mount Technology department's operations. Your role involves managing production schedules, ensuring quality standards, and leading a skilled team. The ideal candidate has a diploma in Electronics and 3–5 years of supervisory experience in a similar environment. Join us to drive operational excellence and maintain high performance standards.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of supervisory experience in an SMT or electronics manufacturing environment.
• In-depth knowledge of SMT processes, including programming, AOI, and reflow soldering.
• Experience with IPC standards and quality management systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage SMT operations ensuring production schedules are met.
• Conduct quality checks to maintain standards and compliance.
• Supervise a skilled team to enhance performance and productivity.
• Host daily production meetings to communicate targets.

Skills

Strong technical understanding of SMT equipment and processes

Leadership and team management capabilities

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Proficiency in problem-solving and decision-making

Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems

Knowledge of workplace safety and health regulations

Education

Diploma or degree in Electronics, Manufacturing, or related field

Job description

The SMT Supervisor is responsible for the efficient and effective management of the Surface Mount Technology department within a contract electronics manufacturing environment. This includes overseeing production schedules, maintaining quality standards, ensuring equipment uptime, and leading a skilled team to deliver on customer requirements and achieve On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Department Management: Plan and manage SMT operations to ensure production schedules are met without bottlenecks. Organize workflow by assigning responsibilities to SMT Operators, Quality Controllers, Inspectors, and Material Handlers. Monitor and maintain the department's operational flow, ensuring consistent production outputs. Set daily, weekly, and monthly production targets based on customer requirements and capacity.
• Quality and Compliance: Approve first-off builds to ensure compliance with quality and design specifications. Conduct quality checks in collaboration with the Quality Control team to maintain adherence to IPC standards. Ensure compliance with internal SOPs, customer specifications, and industry regulations. Address customer quality concerns, participate in root cause analyses, and implement corrective actions. Manage Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) and drive resolutions to reduce repeat occurrences.
• Equipment and Process Management: SMT machine setup, programming, and optimisation to meet production requirements. Manage solder paste handling and stencil usage to ensure efficiency and minimize waste. Collaborate with the Process Engineer to address technical issues and implement process improvements. Ensure timely preventive maintenance and repairs of SMT equipment, including pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and AOI systems. Monitor calibration schedules and ensure all tools and equipment are certified for use.
• Team Leadership and Development: Supervise a team comprising SMT Operators, Material Handlers, Inspectors, and AOI technicians. Conduct performance reviews and provide ongoing feedback to improve individual and team performance. Plan and oversee training programs for team members to enhance their skills and knowledge of SMT processes. Maintain a positive and collaborative work environment, addressing team concerns promptly.
• Production Planning and Reporting: Host daily production meetings to communicate schedules, priorities, and targets. Update and maintain visual management boards to track progress and highlight key metrics. Prepare and share daily efficiency and variance reports with relevant stakeholders. Review production performance against OTIF goals and identify improvement opportunities.
• Health, Safety, and Housekeeping: Ensure the SMT department complies with workplace safety regulations, including the safe handling of hazardous materials. Conduct regular safety audits and implement corrective measures as needed. Maintain a clean and organized department to ensure efficiency and safety.
• Customer and Audit Support: Support customer audits by showcasing SMT capabilities and adherence to quality systems. Act as a point of contact for customer queries related to SMT production. Assist with external and internal quality audits, providing necessary documentation and evidence.

Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma or degree in Electronics, Manufacturing, or related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of supervisory experience in an SMT or electronics manufacturing environment.
• In-depth knowledge of SMT processes, including programming, AOI, and reflow soldering.
• Experience with IPC standards and quality management systems.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong technical understanding of SMT equipment and processes.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning tools.
• Knowledge of workplace safety and health regulations.

Additional Requirements

• Flexibility to work overtime as needed to meet production schedules.
• Willingness to stay updated with industry trends and technology advancements.