SMT Line Leader

Charlotte, NC
Full Time
Manufacturing
Mid Level
ABOUT THE ROLE
Power Probe is bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. and building a new electronics manufacturing operation in Charlotte, NC. As our SMT Line Leader you will be the hands-on technical lead for our Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production line — responsible for equipment operation, process quality, and leading the team working in SMT assembly. This is a critical role in our manufacturing startup and requires someone who combines deep technical knowledge of SMT processes with the ability to lead people and drive quality standards on the floor every day.
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
SMT Line Operations
  • Operate, monitor, and adjust SMT equipment including pick and place machines, reflow ovens, AOI (Automated Optical Inspection), and solder paste printers
  • Set up and changeover SMT lines for new products and product variants, ensuring correct programs, feeders, and stencils are in place
  • Monitor and maintain equipment settings to ensure consistent process quality and first pass yield
  • Troubleshoot equipment faults, process defects, and assembly issues — escalating to engineering when required
  • Ensure ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) controls and handling procedures are followed at all times on the SMT line
Quality & Process
  • Monitor in-process quality metrics including first pass yield, solder defects, and inspection results
  • Perform visual and AOI inspection of assembled PCBs to IPC-A-610 workmanship standards
  • Lead root cause analysis on quality escapes and implement corrective actions using structured problem-solving
  • Maintain accurate production records, traveler documentation, and quality logs
  • Ensure all materials, components, and assemblies are handled and stored in accordance with IPC and ESD standards
Team Leadership
  • Lead and direct the team operating the SMT line — assigning tasks, managing workflow, and ensuring the team works safely and efficiently
  • Train and develop new operators on SMT equipment operation, quality standards, and ESD handling procedures
  • Enforce safety, quality, and 5S standards on the SMT line
  • Communicate production status, quality issues, and equipment concerns to the Director of Manufacturing in a timely manner
  • Support a positive, accountable, and continuous improvement culture on the production floor
Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and recommend process improvements to increase yield, reduce defects, and improve line efficiency
  • Participate in Lean and Kaizen activities to drive waste elimination and process standardization
  • Support the introduction of new products onto the SMT line in collaboration with the Manufacturing & Industrialization Manager
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree in Electronics Technology or related field preferred
  • 3–5 years of hands-on experience operating SMT equipment in an electronics manufacturing environment
  • Direct experience with pick and place machines, reflow ovens, AOI systems, and solder paste printers
  • Strong understanding of SMT process parameters, solder paste printing, component placement, and reflow profiles
  • Knowledge of ESD controls, IPC standards, and electronics assembly workmanship requirements
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and direct a production team in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to read and interpret PCB assembly drawings, BOMs, and work instructions
Preferred
  • IPC-A-610 Certified Interconnect Designer (CID) or IPC-A-610 Operator/Inspector certification
  • Experience with SPC (Statistical Process Control) and quality data analysis
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and 5S implementation
  • Experience supporting NPI (New Product Introduction) line setup and first article builds
  • SAP or comparable ERP experience for production tracking and reporting
 
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This is a full-time, on-site position in Charlotte, NC. You will spend the majority of your time on the SMT production floor — this is an active, hands-on role in a growing electronics manufacturing operation. Power Probe is bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. and we need a Line Leader who takes pride in the quality of every board that comes off the line.

 
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