Lead SMT Process Engineer

Responsibilities

• Develop and own the in-house SMT and PCB assembly manufacturing process from prototype through production
• Define process standards for board assembly, inspection, rework, traceability, quality control, and workmanship
• Establish how PCB assembly workflows, quality data, and production tracking integrate with Manufacturo and broader manufacturing systems
• Lead the design and buildout of the PCB assembly area, including layout, material flow, operator flow, and future production scaling considerations
• Specify, source, and implement equipment and infrastructure required for PCB assembly, including SMT line equipment, inspection tools, rework tools, ESD/anti-static controls, benches, tooling, fixtures, storage, power, cooling, compressed air, and other facility needs
• Develop manufacturing processes for solder paste printing, pick-and-place, reflow, inspection, hand assembly, rework, and repair
• Create process documentation including work instructions, process flows, training materials, control plans, and acceptance criteria
• Define quality standards and inspection methodologies for assembled boards
• Partner with Electrical Engineers to drive DFM/DFT for PCBAs, improving manufacturability, yield, reliability, and testability
• Identify and resolve process issues, yield losses, and quality escapes through structured root cause analysis and continuous improvement
• Build and lead the PCB assembly organization, including hiring and developing manufacturing engineers, production supervisors, and technicians
• Establish training systems and production readiness standards for PCB assembly operators and technicians
• Drive ramp readiness for new products and ongoing improvements for cost, throughput, and quality

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
• 6+ years of experience in PCB assembly, SMT process engineering, electronics manufacturing, or related manufacturing roles
• Experience developing and scaling SMT or PCB assembly processes in a production environment
• Experience with PCB assembly equipment, inspection methods, and rework processes
• Experience creating manufacturing documentation, standards, and process controls
• Experience working cross-functionally with design engineering on DFM for electronics assemblies
• Strong understanding of ESD controls, electronics manufacturing quality requirements, and operator workflow design

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience standing up a new PCB assembly line or manufacturing area from scratch
• Experience selecting and implementing SMT production equipment and supporting infrastructure
• Experience integrating manufacturing processes with MES/MRP systems such as Manufacturo
• Familiarity with IPC standards such as IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, and related electronics manufacturing requirements
• Experience hiring, training, and leading technicians, supervisors, and manufacturing engineers
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience in yield improvement, defect reduction, and root cause analysis