Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Lead

Job Summary: The SMT Lead coordinates daily production activities on the surface mount technology lines in a high-paced, quick job turn environment. This role ensures assembly schedules are met, quality standards are maintained, and SMT Operators are supported. The Lead balances hands-on machine operation and troubleshooting with team supervision and process improvement.

Coordinate SMT schedule and workload to ensure on-time delivery to internal/external Customers:

• Review SMT Work Center queue and assign daily production priorities to SMT Operators to ensure deadlines are met
• Communicate production scheduling concerns and/or status to Production Manager
• Provide stand-in support for additional workcenters in the absence of the Production Manager

Ensure Product is built to Customer and IPC standards:

• Review all SMT jobs and resolve any potential exceptions prior to jobs running; perform pre and post quote DFM
• Review job instructions with SMT team just prior to running to ensure all questions are addressed and staff is adequately trained for assigned tasks
• Identify and train to areas of opportunity with support of the Production Manager, Infrastructure and Quality teams
• Continue to perform support/operational tasks in the SMT workcenter as needed

Continually improve efficiency of SMT operations:

• Provide build specific feedback to the Management and Infrastructure to ensure build documentation is updated
• Closely monitor quality of SMT line and identify areas for opportunity; discuss and respond to IPC 610 acceptability standards with Quality Assurance supervisor
• Monitor use of consumable material and tools to ensure appropriate applications, efficient use and ready stock while managing to avoid overstocking situations
• Identify opportunities for improvement and perform corrective action as necessary
• Address machine downtime, troubleshooting both operational and machine related non-conformances

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 3 to 5 years of hands-on SMT operations experience, with at least 1 year in a senior, lead, or supervisory capacity.
• Technical Certifications: Active or prior IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 certifications are highly preferred.
• Equipment Knowledge: Proficiency with specific machine software (e.g., JUKI, Siemens, Universal, Yamaha) and profiling software (e.g., KIC).
• Skills: Ability to read complex blueprints, schematics, and BOMs; basic computer skills for inventory and machine programming.
• Physical Demands: Capability to stand for long periods and lift up to 35–50 lbs of feeders or material reels.
• Other: Ability to read/write English and computer literate.