IPC Assembler

Hand Soldering Technician

The Hand Soldering Technician is responsible for producing reliable, high-quality solder connections that comply with industry standards for electronics manufacturing, aerospace, and medical device applications. The role involves precision hand-soldering, de-soldering, and component-level repair on electronic and electromechanical assemblies, ensuring adherence to stringent quality, safety, and documentation requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform hand soldering, de-soldering, and rework on printed circuit boards (PCBs), wire harnesses, and mechanical assemblies using soldering irons, hot-air tools, and precision hand tools.
• Apply industry-approved solder alloys (e.g., Sn-Ag-Cu) and fluxes to meet IPC-A-610, MIL-STD-883, and ISO-13485 specifications.
• Inspect solder joints visually and with magnification tools; perform functional testing as required.
• Document all work per traceability matrix; report non-conformances and corrective actions.
• Calibrate and maintain soldering equipment, tip cleaning, and temperature control.
• Participate in scheduled deep-cleaning and preventive maintenance of workstations.
• Generate and update work instructions, process sheets, and repair logs.
• Ensure compliance with cleanroom or controlled-environment protocols when applicable.
• Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to refine processes and reduce rework.
• Contribute to continuous-improvement initiatives and training of new technicians.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; technical certification (e.g., IPC-610A, IPC-J-STD-001) preferred.
• 2+ years of hands-on soldering experience in electronics, aerospace, or medical device manufacturing.
• Proficiency with soldering irons, solder-paste dispensing, hot-air rework stations, and de-soldering tools.
• Strong understanding of solder joint reliability, thermal management, and contamination control.
• Ability to read schematics, assembly drawings, and BOMs.
• Excellent manual dexterity, visual acuity, and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of ESD safety practices and Cleanroom procedures is a plus.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with IPC-2221/IPC-2222 design standards.
• Familiarity with aerospace (AS9100) or medical device (ISO-13485) quality management systems.
• Prior involvement in process audits, root-cause analysis, and corrective-action implementation.

Physical & Working Conditions

• Standing for prolonged periods; occasional lifting of up to 20 lb.
• Exposure to solder fumes; must wear appropriate PPE and use fume extraction.
• Work may be performed in cleanroom or regulated environments.