SMT Process Engineer

ABOUT THE COMPANY:

Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly, specializing in high-quality, quick-turn and complex prototypes. With over 35 years of experience, Sierra provides a seamless, end-to-end PCB solution—from design and fabrication to assembly and testing—all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale, California. Sierra Circuits is committed to supporting engineers and designers through extensive educational resources. The company offers free online tools such as the Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, Material Selector, and BOM and DFM Checkers, along with technical blogs, webinars, design guides, and its SierraConnect community forum. Sierra Circuit serves all industries including aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and telecommunications, building PCBs to the highest industry standards, and keeping innovation at the forefront of everything we do.

ABOUTY THE POSITION

The SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing and maintaining the SMT (Surface Mount Technology) production processes to ensure the efficient and high-quality manufacturing of electronic assemblies. This role involves working closely with the production, quality and design teams to implement new processes, troubleshoot issues and continuously improve existing operations. Must have a strong background in SMT manufacturing process engineering and a passion for innovation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

SMT Process Engineer

• Process Development: Design, develop and implement SMT processes to support new product introductions (NPI) and existing production lines.
• Optimization: Continuously monitor and analyze SMT production processes to identify areas for improvement in efficiency, quality and const- effectiveness.
• Troubleshooting: Provide technical support to resolve process related issues on the production floor, including equipment malfunctions, material defects and process deviations.
• Equipment Management: oversee the selection, installation and maintenance of SMT equipment, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime.
• Quality Assurance: Collaborate with the quality team to establish process controls and standards to maintain product quality and compliance with industry standards.
• Documentation: Develop and maintain process documentation, including work instructions, process flows and control plans.
• Training: Provide training and technical guidance to production staff on SMT processes, equipment operation and best practices.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead and participate in continuous improvement initiatives, such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, to enhance process efficiency and product quality.
• New Technology Evaluation: Stay current with industry trends and evaluate new technologies and methodologies to improve SMT processes.

QUALIFICATIONS - KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS- EXPERIENCE:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field
• Experience: 3+ years as a Process Engineer in SMT manufacturing or a similar role.
• Proven experience with SMT equipment, including pic and place machines, reflow ovens, screen printers and AOI systems.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

• Strong understanding of SMT processes, including solder paste application, component placement reflow soldering and inspection.
• Proficient in CAD/CAM software and experience with process simulation tools.
• Familiarity with IPC Standards for electronic assemblies.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze process data, identify trends, and implement effective solutions.
• Communication Skills:
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all levels of management
  • Read, write and communicate in English
• Problem Solving Skills: Strong problem-solving skills with hands-on approach to troubleshooting and process optimization.
• Exceptional multi-tasking, organizational skills, strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Self-motivator and a sense of ownership and urgency.
• Must be able to maintain confidentiality & professionalism at all times.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office using Excel, PowerPoint, and Word required.
• Basic arithmetic in reference to instructions where interpretations are required.
• Ability to visually verify fine detail work.
• Ability to understand and follow directions when inspecting printed circuit boards.
• Basic understanding of prints and specifications, ability to complete FAI reports and communicate via email with customer inquiries.
• Moderate physical lifting of up to 20-Ibs
• Some out of department in-process inspection.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION:

• Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Certification in IPC standards (eg, IPC-a-610, IPC-j-STD-001)
• Experience in new product introduction (NPI) and design for manufacturability (DFM).

SUPERVISES: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee must frequently stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The ability to lift 20 lbs., open filing cabinets, and bend, stand, or climb on step ladders as necessary.

ENVIRONMENT:

Primarily works in a manufacturing environment with exposure to deduction equipment. PCBA Manufacturing.

California Salary Range: $70K - 110K annually, with Benefits and Perks.