SMT Programmer (Second Shift)

Rocket EMS•San Jose, CA

About The Position

As an SMT Programmer at Rocket EMS, you will create, optimize, and maintain programs for SMT equipment to support efficient, accurate PCB assembly. You will support NPI builds, production runs, and continuous improvement by ensuring machines are set up correctly, feeders are optimized, and programs meet customer and IPC standards. The role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and collaboration across engineering, production, and quality teams. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., with an 8-hour shift. Overtime and weekends may be needed. The pay range is $35–$50 USD. Due to the nature of Rocket EMS’s work, the position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access that information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization. Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Applicants are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check until after a conditional offer; a final offer may be conditioned on a background check consistent with applicable law.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of SMT programming experience in a contract manufacturing or PCBA environment.
Hands-on experience with Juki, Panasonic, Fuji, or similar SMT equipment.
Proficiency interpreting Gerber files, CAD data, BOMs, and assembly drawings.
Strong understanding of SMT processes and IPC workmanship standards (Class 2 and 3).
Basic troubleshooting skills for feeders, placement accuracy, and machine vision systems.
Familiarity with line balancing and production efficiency techniques.
Competence with Microsoft Office and manufacturing data systems.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Must be eligible to access export-controlled technical data or technology under applicable U.S. export-control laws, or be eligible for required government authorization.

Nice To Haves

Technical certification or an associate’s degree in electronics, manufacturing, or a related field.
Experience with stencil printers, reflow ovens, and AOI integration.

Responsibilities

Develop, edit, and optimize programs for SMT pick-and-place machines, screen printers, and reflow ovens.
Review job documentation, including BOMs, Gerbers, XY placement files, ECOs, and customer specifications, before programming.
Perform first article verification and validate new programs against engineering and customer requirements.
Support NPI builds by generating feeder setups, placement data, and verification checks.
Optimize line balancing, feeder utilization, and machine throughput to maximize efficiency.
Troubleshoot SMT program issues, misplacements, and feeder errors, and implement corrective actions.
Collaborate with process and manufacturing engineers to improve yields and reduce cycle times.
Maintain program archives, revision control, and process documentation.
Train operators and technicians on loading programs and feeders and executing production runs.
Ensure compliance with IPC-A-610 standards, ESD controls, and company safety policies.
Provide feedback and recommendations for continuous improvement of SMT programming and setup processes.