SMT Lead (Second Shift) at Rocket EMS

<p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>SMT Lead</h2> <h3>About the Role</h3> <p>As an SMT Lead at Rocket EMS, you will coordinate daily surface mount technology (SMT) production activities while providing hands-on equipment support and direction to operators. You will help keep production lines running efficiently, ensure builds meet quality requirements, and train team members on proper processes and equipment operation.</p> <p>Working closely with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Materials teams, you will support production schedules, resolve issues, and drive consistent performance in a high-reliability PCBA manufacturing environment.</p> <h3>What You’ll Do</h3> <ul> <li> <p>Coordinate daily SMT line activities and operator assignments based on production priorities, staffing, and equipment availability.</p> </li> <li> <p>Set up, operate, and support SMT equipment, including solder paste printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and supporting automation.</p> </li> <li> <p>Lead line setups and changeovers, verifying materials, feeders, component part numbers, orientation, and approved programs before production begins.</p> </li> <li> <p>Confirm required first-piece inspections and approvals are completed before proceeding with production runs.</p> </li> <li> <p>Train and coach operators on equipment operation, setup verification, work instructions, workmanship requirements, and safe work practices.</p> </li> <li> <p>Monitor production output, downtime, defects, and rework; communicate schedule risks and support corrective actions.</p> </li> <li> <p>Troubleshoot common equipment and process issues, coordinating with Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality when additional support is needed.</p> </li> <li> <p>Ensure operators follow travelers, manufacturing process instructions (MPIs), customer requirements, and approved process settings.</p> </li> <li> <p>Maintain compliance with electrostatic discharge (ESD), moisture-sensitive device (MSD), material traceability, and PCBA handling requirements.</p> </li> <li> <p>Identify and contain suspect product, stop affected production when necessary, and escalate quality concerns according to established procedures.</p> </li> <li> <p>Perform and coordinate assigned basic equipment care, including nozzle cleaning, feeder checks, routine maintenance, and work-area organization.</p> </li> <li> <p>Maintain accurate production records and clear shift pass-downs covering build status, equipment issues, material shortages, and quality concerns.</p> </li> <li> <p>Identify recurring problems and recommend improvements that reduce setup time, improve throughput, and prevent defects.</p> </li> </ul> <h3>What We’re Looking For</h3> <ul> <li> <p>Hands-on SMT production experience, including equipment setup, operation, changeovers, and basic troubleshooting.</p> </li> <li> <p>Previous experience as an SMT lead, senior operator, or operator trainer preferred.</p> </li> <li> <p>Working knowledge of solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, and common SMT defects.</p> </li> <li> <p>Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, bills of materials, travelers, and detailed work instructions.</p> </li> <li> <p>Familiarity with applicable IPC workmanship requirements; IPC-A-610 training or certification preferred.</p> </li> <li> <p>Familiarity with solder paste inspection (SPI) and automated optical inspection (AOI) processes preferred.</p> </li> <li> <p>Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to assign work, explain expectations, and coach team members.</p> </li> <li> <p>Sound judgment when addressing production problems, including knowing when to stop work and escalate an issue.</p> </li> <li> <p>Strong attention to detail and the ability to balance quality, safety, and production priorities.</p> </li> </ul> <h3>Why Join Us</h3> <p>You’ll help lead a high-reliability electronics manufacturing team supporting aerospace, defense, and advanced technology programs. Your technical skills and day-to-day leadership will help develop operators, strengthen production performance, and deliver dependable products—down to every component placed on the board.</p><div class="content-pay-transparency"><div class="pay-input"><div class="title">Pay Range</div><div class="pay-range"><span>$30</span><span class="divider">&mdash;</span><span>$35 USD</span></div></div></div><div class="content-conclusion"><p><strong>ITAR/EAR Compliance:</strong> 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.</p> <p>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.<br>#zr</p></div>