SMT Process Engineering

is at the forefront of technology innovation, delivering breakthroughs and trusted insights in electronic design, simulation, prototyping, test, manufacturing, and optimization. Our ~16,800 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy, quantum, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor markets for customers in over 100 countries. Our culture embraces a bold vision of where technology can take us and a passion for tackling challenging problems with industry-first solutions. We believe that when people feel a sense of belonging, they can be more creative, innovative, and thrive at all points in their careers.

As a team member of Keysight Technologies’ New Product Introduction (NPI) organization, the SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and executing surface mount technology (SMT) processes supporting rapid prototype builds, engineering builds, and quick-turn NPI assembly from prototype through ramp‑to‑production.

This role is focused on enabling fast iteration cycles, high-quality prototype assembly, and early manufacturability validation. The engineer partners closely with R&D, quality, and operations teams to provide immediate process feedback, improve first pass yield (FPY), and accelerate design-to-build learning cycles.
Develop and optimize SMT processes including stencil design, solder paste selection, component placement, and reflow profiles
Define SMT process flows and parameters for rapid prototype and NPI builds
Support prototype, engineering, and pilot builds with quick turnaround expectations
Perform process characterization (DOE, process window validation, Cp/Cpk analysis)
SMT Program & Equipment Optimization
Support and optimize SMT equipment including printers, Solder Paste Inspection (SPI), pick-and-place, reflow ovens, AOI/AXI
Ensure equipment capability for fast-turn NPI builds and iterative development
Prepare SMT lines for quick-turn builds including material validation, feeder setup, and rapid changeovers
Support SMT line setup, qualification, and optimization for NPI runs
Enable fast build-to-build transitions to support engineering iteration
Yield Improvement & Rapid Root Cause Analysis
Drive defect analysis and root cause investigation for SMT-related issues
Apply structured problem-solving methods such as 5-Why and DMAIC
Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
Participate in DFM/DFA reviews and provide immediate feedback to design teams
Evaluate PCB layouts, component footprints, and assembly risks early in development
Support MES systems, traceability, and real-time data collection
Work closely with R&D, PCDFM, quality, and operations teams during active NPI builds
Partner with suppliers to qualify materials for prototype assembly
Collaborate closely with Contract Manufacturers during transfers of assemblies into production
Apply Lean and Six Sigma methods to improve turnaround time, yield, and process repeatability
Continuously refine NPI SMT processes to support faster learning cycles
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Manufacturing Engineering or related field

• 3–7+ years SMT process engineering experience
• Hands-on experience with SMT equipment (printer, pick-and-place, reflow, AOI/SPI/AXI)
• Strong understanding of SMT processes, solder behavior, and defect mechanisms
• Experience with conformal coating, selective solder, or BGA rework

Familiarity with MES/PLM systems (e.g. Oracle MES, Arena, Agile, FactoryLogix)
Automation or SMT programming experience
Turnaround time for SMT prototype assemblies
Reduction in SMT defects (DPPM / DPMO)
Quality and readiness of designs after NPI build cycles
Highly hands-on role focused on supporting rapid NPI builds in a manufacturing and lab environment. Requires flexibility to support urgent prototype builds and fast iteration cycles.

This role is eligible for our Keysight Results Bonus Program
Medical, dental and vision

• Health Savings Account
• Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life, Accident, Disability insurance
• Business Travel Accident and Business Travel Health
• Flexible Time Off, Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)
• Restricted Stock Units

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws.