AOI Operator

Gorilla Circuits•San Jose, CA

9d•$20 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

The Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Operator operates, monitors, and maintains AOI equipment used to inspect printed circuit boards (PCBs). The role ensures products meet customer specifications, industry standards, and company quality requirements by identifying, verifying, and documenting defects throughout manufacturing. The operator supports product quality, defect and scrap reduction, and efficient production while following established safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures. The position performs inspections using AOI equipment and visual inspection tools, verifies job setups and inspection results, documents findings, and handles nonconforming products according to company procedures. It also includes routine equipment checks and basic operator-level maintenance, communication of quality or equipment concerns, and participation in continuous improvement and training activities. The position operates primarily in a PCB manufacturing facility, around automated inspection equipment, manufacturing machinery, production materials, and other industrial equipment. Work requires sustained attention to detail, repetitive inspection activity, and adherence to quality and production requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Basic understanding of PCB manufacturing processes and quality requirements.
Ability to identify common PCB defects, including opens, shorts, damaged traces, and other visual irregularities.
Ability to read and interpret manufacturing travelers, engineering drawings, and written work instructions.
Basic computer skills and ability to operate computerized inspection equipment.
Strong attention to detail and ability to perform repetitive inspection tasks accurately.
Ability to use microscopes, magnifying equipment, and other visual inspection tools.
Ability to maintain accurate production and inspection records.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, Quality Control personnel, and production team members.
Willingness to learn new inspection equipment, manufacturing processes, and quality procedures.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions while maintaining production and quality standards.
Ability to stand, sit, and walk for extended periods throughout the work shift.
Ability to perform repetitive hand and finger movements when handling PCBs and operating inspection equipment.
Ability to visually inspect small PCB features and defects, with or without corrective lenses.
Ability to distinguish colors and identify fine details necessary to perform essential inspection functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive movements associated with manufacturing operations.
Ability to work around production equipment and machinery noise and other typical industrial conditions.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment as necessary.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in PCB manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, or quality inspection.
Experience operating Automated Optical Inspection equipment.
Familiarity with PCB fabrication processes and common manufacturing defects.
Experience working in an ISO-certified manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor AOI equipment to inspect PCBs for manufacturing defects.
Perform inspections according to customer specifications, engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards.
Identify and verify PCB defects, including opens, shorts, missing or incorrect features, trace defects, spacing violations, and other irregularities.
Review inspection results and distinguish actual defects from false calls.
Perform visual inspections using microscopes, magnification equipment, and other inspection tools as necessary.
Load and unload PCBs while handling them to prevent damage.
Verify job setup, inspection programs, product identification, and inspection parameters before production.
Make authorized adjustments to AOI settings and programs to improve accuracy and minimize false calls.
Communicate defects, quality concerns, and equipment issues to the Production Supervisor, Quality Department, or appropriate management representative.
Document inspection results, defects, production quantities, and other required information in tracking systems and production records.
Segregate and identify nonconforming products according to company procedures.
Coordinate with production personnel and Quality Control to evaluate and disposition defective products.
Follow procedures for handling, storing, and transporting PCBs to prevent damage or contamination.
Maintain accurate records of inspected, accepted, and rejected boards and rework requirements.
Perform routine equipment checks, cleaning, and basic operator-level maintenance; report malfunctions or abnormal conditions.
Read and follow manufacturing travelers, engineering drawings, customer specifications, and work instructions.
Comply with applicable IPC standards, ISO procedures, and company quality management system requirements.
Follow company safety policies, including PPE use, applicable chemical safety procedures, and safe equipment operation.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with housekeeping and 5S standards.
Meet production schedules, quality objectives, and departmental performance expectations.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to improve inspection accuracy, reduce defects, and increase manufacturing efficiency.
Assist with training new AOI Operators as directed by management.
Perform other related duties as assigned.