DFA Engineer 1

Sierra Proto Express•San Jose, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced SMT DFA (Surface Mount Technology Design for Assembly) Engineer to join Sierra Circuit manufacturing team. In this role, you will work closely with design, process, and manufacturing teams to ensure the seamless assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs) while optimizing product designs for manufacturability. You will be responsible for driving continuous improvements in SMT assembly processes, resolving technical challenges, and ensuring high-quality, cost-effective production.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
5+ years of experience in SMT/DFA engineering in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
Strong understanding of SMT assembly processes including stencil printing, pick-and-place, reflow soldering, and automated optical inspection (AOI).
Proficiency in Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and DFA principles.
Experience with SMT programming, equipment setup, and troubleshooting.
Familiarity with PCB design tools such as Altium Designer, Cadence Allegro, or similar.
Familiar with schematics, PCB fabrication drawings and electronic components that are mounted on electronic assemblies.
Able to evaluate Gerber files
Ability to diagnose and resolve complex assembly and design issues.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for interfacing with multiple teams.
Excellent written and verbal sales communication skills.
Ability to perform at the highest level in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Exceptional multi-tasking, organizational skills, strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with all levels of management
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.

Nice To Haves

IPC-A-610 or J-STD-001 certifications are preferred.
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
Familiarity with high-reliability manufacturing industries such as automotive, aerospace, or medical devices.

Responsibilities

Analyze PCB designs and provide feedback to improve manufacturability and efficiency during SMT production. Collaborate with design engineers to optimize component placements, solder joints, and assembly processes.
Develop, optimize, and maintain SMT assembly processes including stencil design, solder paste application, component placement, and reflow soldering to ensure high-quality output.
Provide technical support and troubleshooting for SMT assembly lines. Collaborate with production teams to identify and resolve issues related to assembly defects, component fit, or solderability.
Lead initiatives for process improvements, yield enhancement, and cycle time reduction in SMT production. Implement best practices and drive Lean Manufacturing principles to improve overall efficiency.
Conduct Design for Manufacturability (DFM) analysis on new and existing products, identifying potential design and process risks and offering solutions to minimize production disruptions and improve yields.
Recommend SMT equipment upgrades or new purchases to enhance assembly capabilities. Ensure SMT machinery is properly calibrated and maintained.
Develop Manufacturing Process Instructions (MPI’s) & Rework Instructions.
Ensure that all proper documentation and data is available for all assembly jobs.
Work with Assembly Management Team to completely implement/monitor Assembly Management System.
Be available as back-up for walk-through, site audits, or any other requests from customers and partners.
Collaborate with the quality engineering team to define inspection criteria, conduct root cause analysis of assembly defects, and implement corrective actions.
Maintain detailed documentation of process parameters, technical issues, and solutions. Report findings and recommendations to relevant stakeholders.
Work closely with cross-functional teams including product design, process engineering, quality assurance, and supply chain to ensure product designs are optimized for manufacturability and meet production requirements.
Work extended hours based on company needs and be available for after hour emergency calls.
Perform other duties as assigned.