Surface Mount Operator

Position: Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Equipment Operator / Process Technician

Location: Mesa, AZPay Rate: $21–$25+ per hour (DOE)Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire / Long-Term Opportunity

Job Summary

Express Employment Professionals – Mesa is seeking an experienced Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Equipment Operator to support and enhance PCB assembly operations for a growing electronics manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for a seasoned SMT professional with strong hands-on machine operation experience who can also contribute to process development, optimization, and continuous improvement efforts. Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of SMT experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, program, and operate surface mount pick-and-place machines to ensure accurate and efficient component placement.

• Set up and operate automatic stencil printers, including alignment verification and solder paste inspection.

• Set up, profile, and operate convection reflow ovens to meet product and process specifications.

• Perform manual component placement, touch-up, and rework as required.

• Conduct in-process and final inspections of populated printed circuit boards in accordance with IPC-A-610 standards.

• Perform routine preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting on SMT equipment to minimize downtime.

• Assist in establishing, documenting, and improving SMT assembly processes, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.

• Read and interpret assembly drawings, travelers, and process documentation.

• Accurately identify electronic components and maintain strict component traceability and inventory control.

• Ensure compliance with ESD, ISO 9001, and AS9100 quality system requirements.

• Communicate effectively with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve issues and improve throughput.

Job Requirements & Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience operating SMT equipment in a production environment.

• Proven experience with pick-and-place, stencil printing, and reflow oven operations.

• Assembleon and Yamaha equipment experience strongly preferred.

• Solid understanding of IPC-A-610 workmanship standards, ESD controls, and ISO 9001 / AS9100 quality systems.

• Strong ability to read, understand, and follow detailed written and verbal instructions.

• Demonstrated ability to identify electronic components (resistors, capacitors, ICs, polarity-sensitive parts, etc.).

• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and the ability to accurately count and track parts.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

• Ability to work independently while supporting team-based manufacturing goals.