The SMT Operator is responsible for the set-up, maintenance, and operation of SMT production equipment used to assemble printed circuit boards (PCBs). This will be accomplished using both automated equipment and manual placement methods while meeting quality, efficiency, and productivity goals. The SMT Operator works closely with production, quality, and engineering to ensure reliable and repeatable SMT processes.
SMT Production & Technical
Set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment including pick-and-place machines, solder paste printers, and reflow ovens
Load programs, feeders, components, and materials according to work instructions
Perform machine changeovers and line setups to support production schedules
Monitor production runs to ensure quality, yield, and throughput targets are met
Perform basic troubleshooting of equipment, process, and assembly issues
Perform first-level machine maintenance and cleaning per procedures
Other duties as assigned
Inspection & Quality Support
Ensure compliance with IPC workmanship standards and ESD procedures
Process & Documentation
Follow documented SMT processes, work instructions, and safety requirements
Record production data, issues, and corrective actions
Identify process issues and suggest improvements to enhance quality and efficiency
Support engineering with process trials and new product introductions
Required Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required. Electronics technical school graduates are preferred.
2+ years of hands-on experience with SMT assembly techniques, equipment and processes is preferred.
Basic understanding of computer science fundamentals.
Knowledge of electronics components commonly used in the industry. This will include full understanding of polarity, part marking information, package size, and footprints on PCBs.
Ability to interpret and apply IPC-A-610 acceptability standards to meet and exceed customer requirements and specifications.
Ability to read, interpret, and work from verbal instructions as well as work instructions.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
The ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in electronics or mechatronic manufacturing environments
Experience with system-level testing and diagnostics
Familiarity with ESD, IPC, ISO, or other quality standards
Work Environment
Manufacturing/production floor
Standing, bending, lifting, and repetitive motions required
Exposure to machinery, tools, and moderate noise levels
Training & Growth
On-the-job training provided
Opportunities to learn advanced assembly skills and move into higher-level roles
Work Habits & Interpersonal Skills
Must be able to work with others on a team
Must demonstrate professional conduct at all time
Must arrive to work timely and demonstrate a commitment to excellent performance
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance, including:
Competitive paid time off, starting with 15 days of vacation, increasing with tenure, plus 11 paid holidays, a personal day, and a community service day
6 paid sick days annually
Paid parental leave
100% employer-paid health and dental insurance for employees, with generous dependent coverage contributions
401(k) with company match (currently dollar-for-dollar up to 5% of salary)
Company-paid life insurance, plus short-term and long-term disability insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts (medical, dependent care, and limited FSA options) with employer contributions for eligible medical plans
Annual benefit allowance for optional employee benefits
Continuing education assistance and support for professional development
Optional benefits include accident insurance, legal services, identity theft protection, adoption assistance, education assistance, and student loan repayment assistance
Compensation
The hourly pay range for this position is $22.00 – $23.00 depending on experience.
INIT is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Numbers & Facts
Location
Chesapeake, Virginia
Salary
$22–$23 Per Hour
Skills
Assembly Equipmentunmatched
Communication Skillsunmatched
Computer Scienceunmatched
Corrective Actionunmatched
Electronicsunmatched
Electronics Manufacturingunmatched
Equipment Maintenance/Repairunmatched
Flexible Spending Accountsunmatched
Health Planunmatched
High School Diplomaunmatched
Housekeeping/Cleaningunmatched
ISO (International Organization for Standardization)unmatched
Identify Issuesunmatched
Lift/Move 50 Poundsunmatched
Machine Toolunmatched
Manufacturingunmatched
Presentation/Verbal Skillsunmatched
Printed Circuit Board (PCB)unmatched
Printersunmatched
Process Developmentunmatched
Product/Service Launchunmatched
Production Controlunmatched
Production Scheduleunmatched
Production Supportunmatched
Quality Engineeringunmatched
Quality Managementunmatched
Quality Metricsunmatched
Safety Trainingunmatched
Safety/Work Safetyunmatched
Solderingunmatched
Surface Mount Technologyunmatched
System Testunmatched
Team Playerunmatched
Technical Supportunmatched
Time Managementunmatched
Writing Skillsunmatched
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