AOI/AXI Operator

As an AOI/AXI Operator at Rocket EMS , you will play a critical role in verifying that our PCB assemblies meet the highest quality and reliability standards. You’ll be responsible for operating, programming, and maintaining automated optical and X-ray inspection systems, performing first article verifications, and ensuring defects are accurately identified and escalated. This position requires strong attention to detail, knowledge of IPC standards, and the ability to make confident quality decisions in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Review job documentation (MPI, Deviations, ECOs, and Customer Requirements) prior to inspection.

• Operate and set up AOI and AXI equipment to perform inspections on PCB assemblies.

• Perform First Article Inspections and verify compliance with IPC-A-610 (Class 2 and 3) and customer standards.

• Analyze inspection data and images to accurately identify, classify, and disposition defects.

• Verify solder joint quality, component alignment, polarity, and hidden solder connections (e.g., BGAs, QFNs) through AOI/AXI systems.

• Stop production and escalate immediately if major defects or systemic issues are identified.

• Document inspection results, generate daily quality pass-downs, and communicate findings to leads/supervisors.

• Raise and review Technical Inquiries for discrepancies; ensure no jobs proceed without proper authorization.

• Support bottleneck areas or other inspection needs as directed by Supervisor, Engineer, or Manager.

• Follow and enforce all procedures related to ESD, MSD handling, housekeeping, safety, and equipment maintenance.

• Suggest and support continuous process and quality improvements.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).

Experience

• Minimum 2 years in electronics inspection, AOI, or AXI operations within a contract manufacturing or similar environment.

• IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification (required).

Skills

• Strong understanding of IPC workmanship standards (Class 2 and 3).

• Hands-on experience with AOI/AXI equipment (e.g., Koh Young, YXLON, Orbotech, or similar systems).

• Ability to interpret inspection images, read blueprints, assembly drawings, and BOMs.

• Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.

• Highly detail-oriented with the ability to detect subtle and hidden defects.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Paid time off

• Growth opportunities in a cutting-edge electronics manufacturing environment

Schedule

• 8-hour shift, Monday–Friday

• Overtime and weekends as needed

Pay Range

$22—$26 USD

ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.

Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.
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