SMT Operator

Build the Future of Electronics — Join Us as an SMT Operator

Location: Maple Grove, MN | Schedule: 1st Shift 6am – 2:30pm | Payrate: $23/hour, up to $25/hr with current certifications

PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the Electronics Manufacturing industry to hire a skilled Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Operator . If you thrive in a precision-driven environment and take pride in producing high-quality work, this role offers a chance to make a direct impact on advanced electronic products.

Role Overview

As an SMT Operator, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining SMT equipment while ensuring all products meet IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 Class 3 standards . Your work will directly support the production of high-reliability assemblies used in critical industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate SMT equipment, including screen printers and pick-and-place machines

• Align and maintain solder paste stencils to ensure consistent, high-quality application

• Verify component placement, polarity, and values during machine operation

• Follow engineering documentation to process lead and lead-free assemblies accurately

• Monitor SMT materials such as solder paste, including inventory levels and expiration dates

• Perform preventative maintenance and identify when additional service is required

• Inspect assemblies using X-ray systems (AXI or Glenbrook) to ensure product quality

• Conduct rework and touch-up using Air-Vac machines and hand soldering under a microscope

• Collaborate with engineers and technicians on new product introductions (NPI)

• Complete process documentation accurately and ensure compliance with all standards

• Train and support new team members as needed

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while supporting continuous improvement

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Experience in SMT setup, operation, and troubleshooting

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and process documentation

• Willingness to obtain J-STD-001 and IPC-A-610 certification

• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify defects

• Ability to perform precision soldering using a microscope

• Capability to work in a standing position with repetitive motion, bending, and twisting

• Visual acuity of 20/20 (with or without correction) and ability to pass a color vision exam

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience programming SMT equipment

• Familiarity with X-ray inspection systems and rework stations

• Background in high-reliability or regulated manufacturing environments (ISO, aerospace, medical)

Apply Today

If you are ready to bring your technical skills and attention to detail to a high-performing team, apply now to join PDS Tech Commercial as an SMT Operator.

This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.

Pay Details: $23.00 to $25.00 per hour

Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Military connected talent encouraged to apply

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: 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.