SMT Process Engineer

Position Summary

The SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining Surface Mount Technology (SMT) manufacturing processes to ensure high-quality, cost-effective, and efficient production. This role focuses on improving equipment performance, reducing defects, increasing yield, and supporting new product introductions (NPI).

 This role ensures that all processes meet quality, efficiency, and safety standards, with a strong focus on ISO 9001 compliance, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration. The engineer plays a key role in process validation, documentation, and sustaining engineering activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize SMT manufacturing processes, including solder paste printing, pick-and-place operations, reflow soldering, and inspection systems.
• Support the transfer of manufacturing processes from U.S. operations to Nuevo Laredo, ensuring production readiness and process stability.
• Maintain and develop test equipment for PCBA based on LabView technology.
• Develop, document, and optimize PCBA assembly process, including material flow, workstation layout, and tooling requirements.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and Poka Yoke methodologies.
• Collaborate with product engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve process-related issues and implement best practices.
• Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) for process deviations or inefficiencies.
• Support the introduction of new products (NPI) by defining process flows, work instructions, and validation plans.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, IPC-A-610, and J-STD-001 standards in all process documentation and execution.
• Maintain and improve process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and visual aids.
• Provide technical training and support to operators and technicians on new or modified processes.
• Utilize ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar) for process control, documentation, and production planning.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, or related field).

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in process engineering within an electronics manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with PCBA processes, including manual and automated operations.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
• Bilingual (Spanish & English).

Preferred:

• Knowledge of IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, and ESD standards.
• Experience with PFMEA, Process Flow, and SPC.
• Availability to travel as needed.