SMT Process Engineer

SMT Process Engineer

Position Summary:

The SMT Process Engineer serves as a technical expert and strategic contributor within Microboard's Engineering & Technology group. This individual will be responsible for leading advanced process development and continuous improvement initiatives across SMT lines, supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), and mentoring engineering staff. This position is intended to transition into a formal leadership role within 1-2 years, requiring strong collaboration, technical depth, and cross-functional influence.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Process Ownership & Development

Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of SMT processes including stencil printing, placement, reflow soldering, AOI, SPI, and X-ray inspection.

Own process capability (CpK) analysis, yield metrics, and SMT line efficiency improvements using Lean and Six Sigma tools.

Oversee development of process documentation, including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, control plans, and PFMEAs. Leadership & Mentorship

Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers and technicians.

Take initiative in cross-functional leadership, coordinating between engineering, production, quality, and maintenance.

Prepare to assume leadership responsibilities by demonstrating influence, initiative, and ownership of complex projects. NPI & Customer Engagement

Collaborate with design, program management, and customers to support DFM analysis, technical reviews, and production readiness for NPIs.

Analyze and review PCB design and panelization data to ensure manufacturing compliance and optimal process flow.

Serve as a key liaison for customers on manufacturability feedback and process capability. Equipment & Automation Strategy

Evaluate, specify, and support procurement of SMT equipment and supporting technologies.

Drive validation, calibration, and qualification of new machines and tooling.

Lead custom fixture design and development to streamline manufacturing operations. Real-Time Manufacturing Support

Troubleshoot and resolve complex SMT process issues in real-time to minimize downtime and defects.

Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Collaborate with maintenance on equipment preventive maintenance schedules and protocols. Project & Technical Communication

Lead and manage engineering projects, including timelines, deliverables, budgets, and reporting.

Present project updates, metrics, and findings to senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

Interface with quality teams to support inspection, test, repair, and rework processes aligned with IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 standards. Qualifications:

Required:

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering.

Minimum of 3-7 years of hands-on SMT process engineering experience in electronics manufacturing, preferably in a high-mix, low-to-mid volume environment.

Expertise in SMT manufacturing equipment (e.g., DEK, Panasonic, Fuji, Heller, Koh Young, CyberOptics).

Strong knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards and component identification.

Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma tools, and structured problem-solving (8D, A3, DMAIC).

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Effective communication skills-written, verbal, and presentation.

Proven ability to coordinate across departments and act as a technical liaison.

Comfortable leading projects independently with minimal supervision. Preferred:

Six Sigma Green Belt certification or equivalent.

Experience with Aegis MES or other shop floor tracking systems.

Familiarity with CAD, Gerber, and CAM software tools.

Track record of mentoring, project ownership, and process improvements with measurable ROI.