AOI & AXI PLR Operator

AOI / AXI Operator

About the Role

As an AOI / AXI Operator at Rocket EMS, you will play a critical role in maintaining product quality across our SMT production lines. You’ll operate Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) and Automated X-ray Inspection (AXI) systems to identify defects, verify workmanship, and ensure PCB assemblies meet IPC and customer requirements. This position requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and close collaboration with Quality, Engineering, and Production teams.

Responsibilities

• Operate AOI and AXI inspection equipment to inspect PCB assemblies for component placement, polarity, solder defects, and workmanship issues.

• Review and understand job documentation, including MPIs, ECOs, deviations, and customer specifications, prior to inspection.

• Perform first article and in-process inspections to verify compliance with IPC-A-610 Class 2 and Class 3 standards.

• Analyze inspection results, classify defects, and accurately document findings.

• Escalate critical or recurring defects immediately; stop production when quality is at risk and notify appropriate personnel.

• Communicate inspection results and quality trends during daily pass-downs to leads and supervisors.

• Support defect verification and root-cause analysis in partnership with Engineering and Rework teams.

• Ensure inspection equipment is properly set up, maintained, and kept clean for consistent performance.

• Adhere to and enforce ESD, MSD, safety, housekeeping, and inspection procedures at all times.

• Assist in continuous improvement efforts by identifying process issues, false calls, and opportunities to improve inspection efficiency.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in AOI, AXI, or SMT inspection within an electronics manufacturing environment preferred.

• Experience in contract manufacturing or high-reliability production is a plus.

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

Skills

• Strong knowledge of IPC-A-610 Class 2 and Class 3 workmanship standards.

• Ability to interpret inspection images, drawings, and BOMs.

• Proficient with basic computer applications (MS Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Highly detail-oriented with the ability to accurately identify, classify, and document defects.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Paid time off

• Opportunities for growth in a high-reliability electronics manufacturing environment

Schedule

• 8-hour shifts, Monday–Friday

• Overtime and weekend work as required

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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