SMT Process Engineer

The Process Engineer supports and improves manufacturing processes within an electronics production environment. This role focuses on developing and maintaining robust processes, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring efficient and reliable production of electronic assemblies and circuit card assemblies. The Process Engineer collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to support new product introduction, troubleshoot issues, and implement data-driven enhancements to manufacturing operations.

• Support manufacturing process improvements to enhance efficiency, quality, and throughput.
• Assist with new product introduction (NPI) and process development activities to ensure smooth transition from design to production.
• Develop, document, and maintain manufacturing processes for electronic assemblies, PCBAs, and circuit cards.
• Create and update clear and accurate work instructions to guide production operators and technicians.
• Lead equipment implementation and validation activities to ensure manufacturing tools and SMT machines meet process requirements.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing and process issues on SMT lines and micro-electronic production areas to minimize downtime and defects.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for process improvement.
• Conduct root cause investigations and implement corrective and preventive actions using structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Support engineering projects from initiation through completion, ensuring technical requirements and timelines are met.
• Partner with production, quality, facilities, and supply chain teams to coordinate process changes and resolve cross-functional issues.
• Train operators and production staff on new or revised processes, procedures, and work instructions.
• Apply SPC, FMEA, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 8D, and 5 Why analysis to drive continuous improvement and reduce defects.
• Document findings, recommendations, and process changes in a clear and organized manner for ongoing reference and compliance.

• 2+ years of experience in Process Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience working with electronic assemblies, PCBAs, circuit cards, and SMT production lines.
• Exposure to SMT, PCBA, circuit card assembly, or electronics manufacturing processes.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for identifying and resolving manufacturing and process issues.
• Demonstrated process improvement experience in a production environment.
• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and its application in monitoring and improving processes.
• Experience using FMEA for risk assessment and mitigation in manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools to eliminate waste and improve flow.
• Understanding of Six Sigma methodologies for reducing variation and improving quality.
• Experience applying structured problem-solving methods such as 8D and 5 Why analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret production data and metrics.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Eligibility to work on ITAR-regulated projects.

• Bachelors degree in Engineering preferred.
• Experience with SMT machines and micro-electronic manufacturing equipment.
• Experience supporting testing and inspection activities for electronic assemblies.
• Ability to create clear, concise, and accurate work instructions and process documentation.
• Comfort working in fast-paced manufacturing environments with changing priorities.
• Ability to train and coach operators on new processes and best practices.

This role operates in a manufacturing environment focused on electronics production, including SMT lines, PCBA and circuit card assembly, and micro-electronic processes. The Process Engineer works closely with production, quality, facilities, and supply chain teams on the factory floor and in engineering spaces. The environment involves regular interaction with SMT machines, testing and inspection equipment, and other manufacturing tools. Work typically follows standard production hours, with flexibility based on project and operational needs. The setting emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous improvement, with a collaborative culture that supports cross-functional teamwork and ongoing process optimization.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $72000.00 - $90000.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 21, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.