Machine Operator - Through-Hole

Through-Hole Operator

About the Role

As a Through-Hole Operator at Rocket EMS, you’ll be an essential part of our PCB assembly process - ensuring all components are hand-placed, soldered, and inspected to the highest quality standards. You’ll work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to build boards that meet IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3 workmanship standards. This position demands steady hands, sharp attention to detail, and the ability to follow precise build documentation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Review build documentation including MPIs, assembly drawings, ECOs, and customer requirements before starting work.

• Manually insert through-hole components onto printed circuit boards according to polarity, orientation, and bill of materials (BOM) requirements.

• Perform soldering operations using hand soldering tools, wave solder, or selective solder equipment.

• Inspect solder joints and component placement for compliance with IPC-A-610 workmanship standards.

• Identify and correct soldering or placement defects; escalate systemic or recurring issues to the Lead or Engineer.

• Perform basic rework and touch-up on solder joints when needed.

• Complete first-article verification and in-process inspection forms as required.

• Maintain clean, organized work areas and adhere to all ESD and MSD handling procedures.

• Record production data and communicate pass-downs and quality updates to supervisors.

• Support other assembly or rework areas as directed by Supervisor, Engineer, or Manager.

• Participate in continuous improvement and 5S initiatives to enhance quality and efficiency.

Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent (required)

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience in through-hole assembly or hand soldering in a contract manufacturing or electronics production environment.

• IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification (preferred or required depending on role level).

Skills

• Strong soldering ability for both leaded and lead-free assemblies.

• Ability to read assembly drawings, schematics, and BOMs.

• Understanding of polarity, component identification, and color codes.

• Familiarity with selective and wave soldering processes.

• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

• Basic computer literacy (MS Excel, Word, Outlook).

• Clear communication skills in English, both verbal and written.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Paid time off and holidays

• Opportunities for advancement in a growing, technology-driven manufacturing environment

Schedule

• 8-hour shift, Monday – Friday

• Overtime and weekends as needed

Pay Range

$20 - $25 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. #zr