SMT Machine Operator

Job Title: SMT Operator

Job Description

This role operates and supports surface mount technology (SMT) production equipment in a modern electronics manufacturing environment. You will load and unload components and feeders, perform precise hand placement of electronic components, and document work accurately while following established quality standards. The position offers a first-shift schedule with some flexibility in start time and provides an opportunity to grow your skills in electronics manufacturing, even if you come from a general machine operation skills.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload electronic components onto feeders in preparation for SMT production runs.

• Install and remove feeders on pick-and-place equipment, ensuring correct setup and configuration.

• Perform careful hand placement of electronic components on printed circuit boards as required.

• Document all work performed accurately and completely, following internal procedures and quality requirements.

• Identify and verify electronic components to ensure correct parts are used in production.

• Follow IPC SMT placement and soldering acceptability guidelines when performing assembly tasks, where applicable.

• Read and interpret assembly drawings to ensure correct component placement and orientation.

• Perform duties in accordance with an ISO9001 Quality System, adhering to all quality and process standards.

• Support inspection and production activities related to SMT, surface mount, and electronics assembly.

• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize duties to meet production schedules.

• Collaborate with team members and contribute positively to a group-oriented work environment.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow ESD and eye protection requirements in the manufacturing area.

Essential Skills

• Knowledge of electronic component identification and the ability to distinguish different component types.

• Strong organizational skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

• Effective problem-solving skills to address issues that arise during SMT operations.

• Ability to function well in a team or group environment and collaborate with others.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize duties in a fast-paced production setting.

• Ability to read and understand assembly drawings and related documentation.

• Capability to perform duties in accordance with an ISO9001 Quality System.

• Ability to stand for extended hours during the workday.

• Ability to safely lift up to 30 pounds.

• Ability to distinguish colors, fine circuit details, and tones to ensure correct component placement and inspection.

• Reliable transportation to consistently arrive on time for scheduled shifts.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating SMT equipment, including pick-and-place machines, is preferred.

• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office and keyboard typing skills.

• Basic understanding of IPC SMT placement and soldering acceptability standards.

• Prior experience in SMT, surface mount, electronics production, or inspection is highly desirable.

• General manufacturing or machine operation experience with a strong willingness to learn SMT processes.

• Comfort working with ESD-sensitive components and following ESD protection procedures.

Why Work Here?

You will join a modern, quality-focused manufacturing environment that values accuracy, teamwork, and continuous learning. The company offers a stable first-shift schedule with some flexibility, providing predictable hours and a healthy work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to develop and expand your skills in electronics manufacturing, including SMT operations, within an ISO9001-certified organization that emphasizes safety, collaboration, and professional growth.

Work Environment

You will work primarily in a modern factory with controlled temperature, designed to provide a comfortable and consistent environment. The standard work schedule consists of an 8-hour day, 5 days a week, on first shift, with overtime available when required. The role involves standing for extended periods and lifting up to 30 pounds as part of daily tasks. Work is performed in a manufacturing area where eye protection is required at all times, and ESD (electrostatic discharge) protection measures must be followed when handling electronic components. The facility supports SMT, surface mount, and electronics production and inspection activities, using pick-and-place equipment and related machinery in a structured, ISO9001-compliant setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Waukegan, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Waukegan,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 28, 2026.

About Aerotek

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 meets 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 solving for 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.

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.