PCB Assembly Quality Control Inspector (IPC-A-610)

A day in the life

You start your shift on the production floor, open the ERP dashboard, and pull the first lot of PCB assemblies for review. Under the microscope, you evaluate solder joints and component placement against IPC-A-610 and customer criteria. You double-check the BOM, confirm the latest revision level, and verify the work instruction before moving into in-process checks. When needed, you perform quick continuity and resistance tests with a multimeter, all while following strict ESD protocols. You capture findings in quality logs and inspection forms, help the team dig into root causes, and ensure every unit is fully traceable from start to finish.

What you’ll do

• Conduct incoming, in-process, and final inspections for PCBAs, subassemblies, and completed electronic products
• Scrutinize solder quality, polarity, component orientation, placement accuracy, cleanliness, and workmanship per IPC-A-610 and customer specifications
• Confirm accuracy of Bills of Materials, revision levels, and written work instructions before and during builds
• Operate microscopes, magnifiers, calipers, multimeters, and other precision measurement tools
• Perform basic functional checks (e.g., continuity, resistance, simple verification) as required
• Apply ESD safety practices at all times
• Record inspection outcomes in quality logs, ERP systems, and formal inspection documents
• Participate in root cause analysis and support corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Maintain meticulous documentation and ensure product traceability throughout the process

What you bring

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to interpret assembly drawings, work instructions, and BOMs
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Basic computer proficiency (Excel, data entry)
• Hands-on experience with microscopes, magnifiers, or measuring instruments

Preferred qualifications

• Working knowledge of PCB assembly processes and electronic components
• Familiarity with IPC-A-610 acceptance criteria
• Exposure to 5S or Lean Manufacturing practices

Work environment

• Manufacturing/production floor setting
• Extended periods of sitting or standing
• Frequent use of microscopes and small hand tools
• Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs