Summary:

The Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining high-complexity manufacturing processes, with a primary focus on conformal coating operations for printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). This role serves as the subject matter expert (SME) for conformal coating processes, driving standardization, process capability, and continuous improvement. The position supports day-to-day production, resolves customer and assembly-specific issues, and ensures process designs achieve the highest levels of quality, efficiency, and reliability. This role also influences next-generation customer designs and supports new product introduction (NPI) activities.

Essential Functions:

• Develops and ensures manufacturing processes are robust, error-proofed, and simple to perform across assigned process areas.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues related to spray patterns, nozzle performance, and material flow.
• Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of coating equipment. Routinely analyzes performance data and leads improvement initiatives to improve quality, cost, and delivery.
• Supports Manufacturing and helps ensure daily production targets are met.
• Reviews customer Product Change Notices (PCN's). Assures that all changes are properly captured and accounted for.
• Prepares Equipment Work Instructions, detailed reports, and other documentation as required.
• Supports New Product Introduction (NPI) launch activities.
• Attend conferences, seminars, and training as required.
• Provides training to other Engineers, Technicians, and Operators as required.
• Supports the development of a safe, ergonomic, and environmentally sound workplace.
• Supports and adheres to the Quality Management System

Technical Expertise: SMT

• Design and review SMT stencils for manufacturability.
• Create, maintain, and troubleshoot screen printer programs to minimize defects.
• Create, optimize, and debug SMT Placement programs.
• Develop, and validate reflow profiles.
• Knowledge of solder paste specifications for printing and reflow profiling.
• Understand SPI, AOI and X-ray trends and inspection criteria.
• Ability to troubleshoot and find root cause on SMT defects, including component, equipment, and material related issues.
• CAD/CAM software knowledge
• Knowledge of DFM and/or PCB design rules.

Qualifications:

• Education: BS Degree in a related Engineering discipline required.
• Certifications: Lean and/or Six Sigma Certification preferred. SMTA Certified Process Engineer preferred.
• Experience:
  • 3+ years' experience as a conformal coating process engineer
  • Must have excellent problem-solving skills and possess good analytical, verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience with customers in identifying and suggesting DFx opportunities.
  • Must have solid process engineering experience in the printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) industry in a high reliability environment; contract manufacturing experience a plus.
  • Experience should include working with all component types - SMT, Thru-hole, Press Fit etc. Processes such as SMT Pick and Place, Manual & Auto Insertion for Thru-hole, Press/Router operations, Solder rework, Thermal profiling, Automatic Optical Inspection, Aqueous Cleaners, and X-Ray.
  • Experience with RoHS and familiar with IPC-610 and J-STD-001 workmanship standards.
  • Strong leadership and coaching/mentoring skills
  • Strong organizational and communication skills - written and verbal
  • Must demonstrate flexibility, self-direction, and self-discipline to plan and accomplish objectives and meet deadlines with limited supervision.
  • Exhibits a "Can-Do" attitude and actively seeks for solutions to problems; demonstrates professionalism and effective collaboration in team environments

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods while analyzing data and preparing reports.
• Ability to visually inspect components and equipment, including small or detailed features.
• Regularly moves within the manufacturing floor to evaluate processes and provide technical support.
• Frequently operates tools and equipment, including those used in printed circuit board assembly processes such as SMT, Thru-hole, and inspection devices.
• Occasionally positions self to access or adjust manufacturing equipment and fixtures.
• Occasionally moves and transports equipment or materials weighing up to 25 pounds.

Mental Requirements:

• Ability to analyze complex manufacturing processes and identify root causes of technical issues.
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot equipment, materials, and process variability.
• Interprets technical data, engineering drawings, and quality standards to make informed decisions.
• Manages multiple priorities in a fast-paced production environment with shifting demands.
• Maintains attention to detail while working on high-reliability products with strict quality requirements.
• Exercises sound judgment when implementing process changes that may impact production, cost, or customer requirements.
• Communicates technical concepts clearly to cross-functional teams with varying levels of expertise.
• Demonstrates adaptability and continuous learning in response to evolving technologies and customer needs.

Work Environment:

Work is performed within an electronics manufacturing environment and may involve exposure to moderate noise levels, fluctuating temperatures, and proximity to production equipment, soldering operations, and automated machinery. Duties may require standing, walking, bending, or repetitive motions for extended periods, as well as lifting or moving materials as job responsibilities dictate. Employees may enter clean or controlled areas and are required to follow all environmental, safety, ESD, and equipment-handling procedures. This includes the use of SMTC-provided ESD-safe items such as foot straps, wrist straps, and smocks when working in designated areas. Employees must be able to remain attentive and compliant with all operational, safety, and quality requirements while working on or near the production floor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Travel: 0-10% of the time based on business needs.

Application Process: If you are excited about this opportunity and believe you have the skills and experience required, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your updated resume highlighting your qualifications to the posting. We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to the SMTC team!