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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Electronics Operator / Assembly Technician

💰 $20 - $35 per hour

ManufacturingProductionSkilled TradesTechnologyElectronics

🎯 Role Definition

As a pivotal member of our operations, the Electronics Operator plays a critical role in the entire lifecycle of our electronic products. This hands-on position involves operating sophisticated automated machinery, performing precision manual assembly, and ensuring every product meets rigorous quality standards. You will work with engineering drawings and industry best practices (like IPC standards) to build the complex devices that drive our success. This role is perfect for someone with a passion for electronics, a steady hand, and an unwavering commitment to quality and excellence in a fast-paced production setting.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • High School Graduate with technical aptitude
  • Technical / Vocational School Graduate
  • Production Assembler (General)

Advancement To:

  • Senior Electronics Operator / Team Lead
  • SMT Process Technician
  • Electronics Technician
  • Quality Assurance Inspector

Lateral Moves:

  • Repair / Rework Technician
  • Test Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Operate, monitor, and maintain automated electronic assembly equipment, including surface-mount technology (SMT) pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and wave solder machines.
  • Perform detailed visual and microscopic inspections of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic assemblies to identify defects, ensure solder joint quality, and verify component placement according to IPC standards.
  • Execute machine setup and changeover procedures, including loading component reels, stencils, and programs into SMT equipment for different production runs.
  • Perform precision hand soldering, de-soldering, and rework on both through-hole and surface-mount components, utilizing soldering irons, hot air stations, and other specialized tools.
  • Adhere strictly to detailed work instructions, assembly drawings, process sheets, and bills of material (BOMs) to ensure products are built to exact customer specifications.
  • Conduct first-line troubleshooting and minor repairs on production equipment to resolve jams, misalignments, and other operational issues, minimizing downtime.
  • Diligently follow all Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) safety protocols and procedures to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components throughout the assembly process.
  • Identify, handle, and kit a wide variety of electronic components, verifying part numbers and values against the bill of materials to prevent assembly errors.
  • Operate automated test equipment (ATE), in-circuit testers (ICT), and functional testers to verify the electrical performance and functionality of completed assemblies.
  • Accurately complete and maintain production logs, quality control records, and equipment maintenance logs, documenting process parameters, yields, and any deviations.
  • Apply conformal coating, potting, or other encapsulating materials to electronic assemblies using automated or manual methods to protect them from environmental factors.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance tasks on machinery, such as cleaning, lubrication, and calibration, following a predefined schedule to prolong equipment life.
  • Ensure all assembly and soldering work meets or exceeds IPC-A-610 Class 2/3 workmanship standards for electronic assemblies.
  • Operate and interpret results from Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems, making pass/fail judgments and flagging potential defects for further review.
  • Utilize X-ray inspection systems to analyze the integrity of BGA solder joints and other hidden connections, interpreting images to identify voids, shorts, and other anomalies.
  • Perform manual assembly tasks, including installing hardware, wiring harnesses, press-fit components, and mechanical sub-assemblies according to engineering drawings.
  • Collaborate with process engineers and technicians to provide feedback on manufacturing processes, suggest improvements, and assist in resolving complex production issues.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by complying with all company safety policies and 5S principles.
  • Use precision measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges to verify mechanical dimensions and assembly tolerances.
  • Load, and occasionally edit, machine programs for SMT lines, screen printers, and AOI systems to align with production requirements.
  • Execute complex rework, repair, and modification of printed circuit board assemblies, including BGA rework, trace repair, and component replacement as directed.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist engineering teams in building and testing new product introduction (NPI) prototypes, providing valuable feedback on manufacturability.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying and suggesting process enhancements to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.
  • Participate in regular inventory cycle counts and help maintain accurate stock levels of electronic components and consumables.
  • Provide support in training new operators on equipment operation, safety protocols, and standard work procedures.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Soldering & Rework: Proficiency in hand soldering and de-soldering for both Surface-Mount (SMT) and Through-Hole components.
  • SMT Equipment Operation: Experience operating SMT pick-and-place machines, screen printers, and reflow ovens.
  • IPC Standards: Strong knowledge of IPC-A-610 workmanship standards for electronics assembly; certification is a major plus.
  • Blueprint & Schematic Reading: Ability to read and interpret assembly drawings, schematics, and Bills of Material (BOMs).
  • Component Identification: Skill in identifying various electronic components, including polarity and value markings.
  • Microscope Operation: Competency in using microscopes for fine-pitch assembly, inspection, and rework.
  • ESD Best Practices: Thorough understanding and application of Electrostatic Discharge prevention techniques.
  • AOI/X-Ray Operation: Experience operating and interpreting results from Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) or X-ray inspection systems.
  • Basic Troubleshooting: Ability to perform first-level diagnostics and minor adjustments on production machinery.
  • Hand Tool Proficiency: Skilled use of various hand tools, crimpers, and measurement devices (e.g., calipers).

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all tasks to ensure the highest quality output and prevent defects.
  • Manual Dexterity: Excellent hand-eye coordination and steadiness for handling small components and performing intricate tasks.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions in a production environment.
  • Focus & Concentration: Capable of maintaining high levels of concentration while performing repetitive or complex tasks.
  • Team Collaboration: Works effectively with team members, technicians, and engineers to achieve production goals.
  • Adaptability: Willingness to learn new processes and cross-train on different equipment and product lines.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree or a technical certificate in a related field.
  • IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 Certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electronics Technology
  • Manufacturing Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-5+ years of experience in an electronics manufacturing or assembly role.

Preferred: Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (e.g., medical devices, aerospace, defense) is highly desirable. Familiarity with ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality systems is a plus.

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