What are the responsibilities and job description for the SMT Process Engineer position at HireReady Partners?
Position Summary
- The SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes to ensure high-quality and efficient production of electronic assemblies.
- This role partners cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and Design Engineering teams to support new product introduction (NPI), drive continuous improvement initiatives, and resolve SMT-related manufacturing issues.
- Develop, implement, and sustain SMT process parameters and standards for both new and existing products.
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities, including stencil design, solder paste selection, and programming of pick-and-place equipment.
- Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for SMT defects (e.g., tombstoning, solder bridging, insufficient solder).
- Monitor and improve production metrics, including yield, scrap, cycle time, and equipment utilization.
- Create and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, control plans, and FMEAs.
- Support selection, installation, validation, and qualification of SMT equipment and processes.
- Collaborate with Quality and Manufacturing teams to ensure compliance with IPC standards and internal quality requirements.
- Conduct process capability analysis and implement Statistical Process Control (SPC) methodologies.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles.
- Actively participate in PSE departmental meetings (e.g., M360 reviews) and contribute to operational discussions.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years of relevant engineering experience, including hands-on involvement in manufacturing processes, product development, or process design.
- Hands-on experience with SMT equipment and processes, including:
- Screen printers
- Dispensing/gluing machines
- Pick-and-place machines
- Reflow ovens
- AOI/AXI systems
- Auto insertion and press-fit equipment
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience conducting Design of Experiments (DOE) and structured root cause analysis.
- Preferred certifications:
- IPC-A-610 (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies)
- Six Sigma Green Belt or higher
- Lean Manufacturing / Kaizen training
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify process or equipment issues and implement effective solutions.
- Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Experience developing and maintaining process documentation such as work instructions, SOPs, and FMEAs.
- Knowledge of IPC standards and ISO/TS quality systems.
- Our client offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with company participation
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Career development and training opportunities