SMT Line Leader

Power Probe Group•Charlotte, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
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

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Electronics Technology or related field 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

Responsibilities

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
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
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
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