AOI Operator (Swing shift)

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: AOI Operator

Department: Quality

Reports To: AOI/X-Ray/QC Supervisor

Location: Meritronics – M1 and M2

Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour

Job Overview

The AOI Operator operates Automated Optical Inspection equipment to inspect printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) for manufacturing defects. The operator reviews defects identified by the machine, records inspection results, and communicates quality concerns to the appropriate personnel.

This is a production-floor position suited for someone with electronics manufacturing, SMT, PCBA assembly, inspection, or previous AOI experience. Training will be provided on Meritronics equipment and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload PCBAs into 2D and 3D AOI equipment.
• Select and run the correct approved AOI program for the applicable assembly and revision.
• Confirm the correct board orientation and job information before starting inspection.
• Review machine-identified defects and determine whether they are actual defects or false calls.
• Inspect for common PCBA defects, including:
• • Missing, incorrect, damaged, or misaligned components
  • Incorrect polarity or component orientation
  • Solder bridges, insufficient solder, and open solder joints
  • Lifted leads, tombstoning, and other visible workmanship defects
• Record inspection results and defect information accurately.
• Identify and separate nonconforming boards according to established procedures.
• Notify the supervisor, Quality, Production, or AOI Programming personnel of recurring defects or unusual inspection results.
• Reinspect boards after rework or correction when required.
• Perform routine equipment cleaning and basic operator-level troubleshooting.
• Follow work instructions, visual aids, ESD requirements, safety procedures, and 5S standards.
• Maintain inspection accuracy while supporting production requirements.
• Perform other related inspection or Quality duties as assigned.

AOI program creation and major program changes are performed by authorized AOI Programming personnel and are not a routine responsibility of this position.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least six months of experience in PCB, PCBA, SMT, electronics assembly, electronics inspection, or a similar electronics manufacturing environment.
• Basic knowledge of electronic components, component polarity, and common assembly defects.
• Basic computer and data-entry skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to follow written work instructions, visual aids, and inspection procedures.
• Ability to communicate defects and quality concerns clearly.
• Ability to perform repetitive visual inspection accurately.
• Ability to follow ESD and safe PCB-handling requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience operating 2D or 3D AOI equipment.
• Experience reviewing AOI defect calls and identifying false calls.
• Familiarity with IPC-A-610 workmanship standards.
• Experience working in an SMT or PCBA manufacturing environment.
• Experience recording defect codes or inspection results.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Good close vision and visual attention for detailed inspection work.
• Ability to use a computer and inspection equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to handle PCBAs safely and perform repetitive loading and unloading.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.