SMT Lead (Second Shift)

SMT Lead

About the Role

As an SMT Lead at Rocket EMS, you will coordinate daily surface mount technology (SMT) production activities while providing hands-on equipment support and direction to operators. You will help keep production lines running efficiently, ensure builds meet quality requirements, and train team members on proper processes and equipment operation.

Working closely with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Materials teams, you will support production schedules, resolve issues, and drive consistent performance in a high-reliability PCBA manufacturing environment.

What You’ll Do

• Coordinate daily SMT line activities and operator assignments based on production priorities, staffing, and equipment availability.

• Set up, operate, and support SMT equipment, including solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and supporting automation.

• Lead line setups and changeovers, verifying materials, feeders, component part numbers, orientation, and approved programs before production begins.

• Confirm required first-piece inspections and approvals are completed before proceeding with production runs.

• Train and coach operators on equipment operation, setup verification, work instructions, workmanship requirements, and safe work practices.

• Monitor production output, downtime, defects, and rework; communicate schedule risks and support corrective actions.

• Troubleshoot common equipment and process issues, coordinating with Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality when additional support is needed.

• Ensure operators follow travelers, manufacturing process instructions (MPIs), customer requirements, and approved process settings.

• Maintain compliance with electrostatic discharge (ESD), moisture-sensitive device (MSD), material traceability, and PCBA handling requirements.

• Identify and contain suspect product, stop affected production when necessary, and escalate quality concerns according to established procedures.

• Perform and coordinate assigned basic equipment care, including nozzle cleaning, feeder checks, routine maintenance, and work-area organization.

• Maintain accurate production records and clear shift pass-downs covering build status, equipment issues, material shortages, and quality concerns.

• Identify recurring problems and recommend improvements that reduce setup time, improve throughput, and prevent defects.

What We’re Looking For

• Hands-on SMT production experience, including equipment setup, operation, changeovers, and basic troubleshooting.

• Previous experience as an SMT lead, senior operator, or operator trainer preferred.

• Working knowledge of solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, and common SMT defects.

• Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, bills of materials, travelers, and detailed work instructions.

• Familiarity with applicable IPC workmanship requirements; IPC-A-610 training or certification preferred.

• Familiarity with solder paste inspection (SPI) and automated optical inspection (AOI) processes preferred.

• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to assign work, explain expectations, and coach team members.

• Sound judgment when addressing production problems, including knowing when to stop work and escalate an issue.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to balance quality, safety, and production priorities.

Why Join Us

You’ll help lead a high-reliability electronics manufacturing team supporting aerospace, defense, and advanced technology programs. Your technical skills and day-to-day leadership will help develop operators, strengthen production performance, and deliver dependable products—down to every component placed on the board.

Pay Range$30—$35 USD

ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.

Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.
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