SMT Process Engineer
Cybotic System, Houston, TX, United States
The SMT Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining Surface Mount Technology (SMT) processes to support PCBA manufacturing. This role ensures process stability, yield improvement, and product quality through hands‑on engineering support, data‑driven analysis, and cross‑functional collaboration. The engineer will play a key role in New Product Introduction (NPI), process validation, and continuous improvement initiatives to support advanced electronic manufacturing programs.
Key Responsibilities
Develop, configure, and optimize SMT manufacturing processes from NPI through mass production, ensuring readiness for scale and quality targets
Drive yield improvement and process stability across SMT lines, including stencil printing, placement, reflow, and inspection
Perform root cause analysis (RCA) on SMT defects (e.g., bridging, tombstoning, voiding, insufficient solder) and implement corrective and preventive actions
Support SMT line setup, validation, and qualification, including process parameter development and DOE (Design of Experiments)
Collaborate with Design and NPI teams to perform Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews and ensure smooth product launches
Establish and maintain process documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, PFMEA, and control plans
Monitor key performance metrics (yield, defect rate, cycle time, OEE) and drive continuous improvement initiatives
Support line balancing, capacity analysis, and throughput optimization to improve production efficiency
Provide technical support and training to production teams on SMT processes, equipment, and best practices
Work closely with Quality and Test Engineering teams to resolve manufacturing issues and improve product reliability
Evaluate and implement new materials, equipment, and process technologies to enhance manufacturing capability
Support customer audits, line tours, and technical discussions as needed
Preferred Skills
Strong experience with SMT equipment, including: Pick‑and‑place Panasonic systems, Screen printers, Reflow Ersa ovens, AOI / SPI inspection systems
Deep understanding of SMT processes: solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, inspection and defect analysis
Experience with root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D, Fishbone), Design of Experiments (DOE), Process validation and qualification, Yield and defect reduction strategies
Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Experience with CAD/CAM, MES/SFC systems, or process simulation tools is a plus
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with hands‑on troubleshooting ability
Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑volume manufacturing environment
Strong ownership, attention to detail, and sense of urgency
Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and support production needs
Experience in high‑volume PCBA or server manufacturing environments
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen methodologies
Experience supporting NPI builds and ramp‑to‑production environments
Experience with failure analysis techniques (cross‑section, dye & pry, X‑ray, etc.)
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of experience in SMT process engineering or PCBA manufacturing environment
Hands‑on experience supporting SMT production lines and equipment
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Key Responsibilities
Develop, configure, and optimize SMT manufacturing processes from NPI through mass production, ensuring readiness for scale and quality targets
Drive yield improvement and process stability across SMT lines, including stencil printing, placement, reflow, and inspection
Perform root cause analysis (RCA) on SMT defects (e.g., bridging, tombstoning, voiding, insufficient solder) and implement corrective and preventive actions
Support SMT line setup, validation, and qualification, including process parameter development and DOE (Design of Experiments)
Collaborate with Design and NPI teams to perform Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews and ensure smooth product launches
Establish and maintain process documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, PFMEA, and control plans
Monitor key performance metrics (yield, defect rate, cycle time, OEE) and drive continuous improvement initiatives
Support line balancing, capacity analysis, and throughput optimization to improve production efficiency
Provide technical support and training to production teams on SMT processes, equipment, and best practices
Work closely with Quality and Test Engineering teams to resolve manufacturing issues and improve product reliability
Evaluate and implement new materials, equipment, and process technologies to enhance manufacturing capability
Support customer audits, line tours, and technical discussions as needed
Preferred Skills
Strong experience with SMT equipment, including: Pick‑and‑place Panasonic systems, Screen printers, Reflow Ersa ovens, AOI / SPI inspection systems
Deep understanding of SMT processes: solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, inspection and defect analysis
Experience with root cause analysis (5 Whys, 8D, Fishbone), Design of Experiments (DOE), Process validation and qualification, Yield and defect reduction strategies
Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC‑A‑610, J‑STD‑001)
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
Experience with CAD/CAM, MES/SFC systems, or process simulation tools is a plus
Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with hands‑on troubleshooting ability
Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑volume manufacturing environment
Strong ownership, attention to detail, and sense of urgency
Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and support production needs
Experience in high‑volume PCBA or server manufacturing environments
Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen methodologies
Experience supporting NPI builds and ramp‑to‑production environments
Experience with failure analysis techniques (cross‑section, dye & pry, X‑ray, etc.)
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
5+ years of experience in SMT process engineering or PCBA manufacturing environment
Hands‑on experience supporting SMT production lines and equipment
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