Smt Operator Department Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: SMT Operator Department Lead
Job Description

The SMT Operator Department Lead operates and maintains surface-mount technology (SMT) production equipment to manufacture high-quality, complex circuit board assemblies. This role independently sets up and runs SMT automatic assembly lines, ensures adherence to industry standards, and supports continuous production by performing preventive maintenance and identifying non-conforming materials. The position requires strong technical skills in SMT processes, soldering, and electronic assembly, as well as the ability to interpret detailed assembly documentation and use computer-based tools.

Responsibilities

• Operate SMT equipment, including Screen Printer, SPI, Pick & Place machines, Reflow Oven, and AOI, to produce high-quality complex circuit board assemblies.
• Independently set up and run SMT automatic assembly equipment from start to finish to meet production requirements.
• Perform preventive maintenance on SMT and other production equipment to ensure reliable and consistent operation.
• Set up and configure SMT lines by reading and understanding set-up lists, assembly instructions, and assembly notes.
• Prepare and load electronic components into appropriate feeders, ensuring correct placement and orientation.
• Identify and select the proper feeder type, such as 8 mm x 2 mm, 16 mm x 8 mm, vibratory feeders, and other formats, based on component requirements.
• Identify manufacturer part number markings on various components to confirm correct parts are used in production.
• Recognize and verify critical component features, including package type and size, to ensure correct assembly.
• Differentiate between ROHS and non-ROHS compliant components and materials and ensure compatibility within the assembly process.
• Recognize and distinguish between Sn63 and Pb-free solder pastes and apply them appropriately according to assembly requirements.
• Print solder paste on printed circuit boards (PCBs), including fine-pitch applications down to 0201 components, less than 15 mil fine pitch, and BGA packages.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance tasks on SMT and production equipment to minimize downtime and extend equipment life.
• Identify, document, and report non-conforming materials or assemblies in accordance with internal procedures and quality standards.
• Follow ESD handling procedures for sensitive electronic devices in compliance with ANSI/ESD S20.20-2007.
• Apply knowledge of IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620, and J-STD-001 standards to ensure acceptability of electronic assemblies.
• Use computer systems and MS Office applications to review documentation, record production data, and support process control.
• Support continuous improvement by reporting issues, suggesting process enhancements, and assisting with troubleshooting production problems.
• Maintain accurate labeling and identification of assemblies, components, and production outputs throughout the SMT process.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in the SMT industry.
• Hands-on SMT equipment experience with Screen Printer, SPI, Pick & Place, Reflow Oven, and AOI for at least 3 years.
• Certification or a minimum of 3 years of practical knowledge in IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620, and J-STD-001 standards.
• Strong soldering and electronic assembly skills, including experience with surface-mount technology and production set-up.
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow set-up lists, assembly instructions, and assembly notes accurately.
• Ability to identify manufacturer part numbers, component markings, and critical component features such as package type and size.
• Knowledge of ROHS and non-ROHS compliance and compatibility in electronic assemblies.
• Ability to recognize and correctly use Sn63 and Pb-free solder pastes.
• Familiarity with ESD handling procedures for sensitive electronic devices in accordance with ANSI/ESD S20.20-2007.
• Familiarity with IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 acceptability criteria for electronic assemblies.
• Proficiency in using SMT feeders and selecting appropriate feeder types such as 8 mm x 2 mm, 16 mm x 8 mm, and vibratory feeders.
• Good computer skills, including the use of MS Office applications.
• Ability to be trained for equipment maintenance and apply learned procedures in a production environment.

• Experience performing preventive and routine maintenance on SMT and production equipment.
• Experience printing solder paste on PCBs for complex assemblies, including 0201 components, less than 15 mil fine pitch, and BGA packages.
• Knowledge of labeling practices for assemblies and components within an SMT production environment.
• Comfort working with automated inspection systems such as SPI and AOI.
• Ability to document and report non-conforming materials clearly and accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality electronic assemblies.
• Willingness to support continuous improvement initiatives and assist with troubleshooting production issues.

This opportunity offers the chance to work in a technically advanced electronics manufacturing environment where quality, precision, and continuous improvement are highly valued. You will develop and refine your SMT expertise while working with modern equipment and established industry standards. The organization supports ongoing training, encourages skill development in equipment maintenance and process optimization, and provides a collaborative setting where your technical contributions directly impact product quality and customer satisfaction.

Work Environment

The role is based in an electronics manufacturing environment focused on surface-mount technology and complex circuit board assembly. You will work with SMT production equipment such as Screen Printers, SPI systems, Pick & Place machines, Reflow Ovens, AOI equipment, and various feeder types. The environment emphasizes adherence to ESD control procedures in line with ANSI/ESD S20.20-2007 and compliance with IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620, and J-STD-001 standards. Work involves handling sensitive electronic components, applying solder paste, and performing routine and preventive maintenance on production equipment. Computer use, including MS Office, is part of daily activities for reviewing documentation and recording production information. The setting is structured, process-driven, and quality-focused, with clear procedures and standards guiding daily operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Nampa, ID.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $26.00/hr.

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 fully onsite position in Nampa,ID.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

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

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.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.