Production Lead 2 - AOI (Day Shift)

Job Description

Job Description

About Unigen
Unigen is a global technology company providing innovative electronics manufacturing and product solutions to customers across diverse industries. With decades of industry experience and operations in key global markets, we combine engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and responsive customer service to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions—from product development through production and fulfillment.

Location and Work Arrangement
This position is based in Newark, California and is onsite.

Benefits
Unigen offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan; paid time off; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities. Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable plan terms.

Job Title: Production Lead 2 - AOI Day Shift
Department: Manufacturing
Reports To: Production Manager
Location: Unigen HQ – Newark, CA

Job Overview: The AOI/AXI Lead serves as the primary leader and technical authority for the AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) and AXI (Automated X-ray Inspection) function. This role is responsible for overseeing daily AOI/AXI operations, leading and developing the AOI inspection team, and driving continuous improvement in inspection effectiveness, yield performance, and quality outcomes.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Team Leadership & Oversight

• Lead, coordinate, and support AOI/AXI inspectors across shifts.
• Assign priorities and manage workload distribution based on production needs.
• Monitor team performance, productivity, and quality metrics.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for AOI/AXI issues.
• Support hiring input, onboarding, and performance feedback for AOI staff.

2. Program Optimization & Development

• Oversee creation, validation, and maintenance of AOI/AXI programs.
• Standardize programming methodologies across the team.
• Optimize programs to maximize detection and reduce false calls.
• Partner with Engineering to ensure inspection coverage meets IPC and customer requirements.

3. Advanced Defect Analysis

• Lead investigations into recurring or high-impact defects.
• Drive structured root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Track defect trends and communicate findings to cross-functional teams.

4. Process Improvement Leadership

• Identify and implement improvements that enhance yield, throughput, and inspection accuracy.
• Lead measurable improvement initiatives tied to KPIs.
• Support Lean and continuous improvement initiatives.

5. NPI (New Product Introduction) Support

• Own AOI/AXI readiness for NPI builds.
• Ensure programs are validated prior to production release.
• Provide DFM feedback from an inspection and quality perspective.

6. Technical Troubleshooting

• Lead resolution of machine, programming, and software issues.
• Coordinate with vendors and internal teams to minimize downtime.
• Promote preventive maintenance best practices.

7. Training & Development

• Develop structured training plans for AOI/AXI inspectors.
• Ensure consistent certification and competency levels.
• Mentor junior team members and build technical depth within the team.

Qualifications:

1. 5+ years AOI/AXI experience in electronics manufacturing.
2. Strong leadership or team-lead experience in a manufacturing environment.
3. Expert knowledge of IPC-A-610 and SMT processes.
4. Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills.
5. Effective communication and training skills.