Associate Process Engineer

The Associate Process Engineer supports the development, implementation, and optimization of PCBA manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, quality, safety, and repeatability. Working under the guidance of senior engineering staff, this hands-on role supports Yamaha SMT equipment, DEK and AVI screen printers, SPI assets, selective soldering, and related process tools while assisting with defect reduction, process improvement, and technical problem-solving across the manufacturing floor.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development and refinement of SMT and PCB assembly processes to improve efficiency, reduce cost, and enhance product quality.

• Assist with maximizing the capability of Yamaha SMT machines, DEK and AVI screen printers, SPI equipment, reflow ovens, and related internal assets.

• Support optimization of solder paste printing, board support, alignment, placement accuracy, reflow profiles, SPI feedback, and inspection effectiveness.

• Participate in defect reduction, yield improvement, and process capability initiatives using data analysis, SPC, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, DOE, and root-cause methods.

• Assist with process improvement projects, including validation, documentation updates, and production readiness.

• Analyze process data to identify trends, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and recommend improvements to increase first-pass yield and reduce rework.

• Collaborate with Production, Quality, Test, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to support stable execution from NPI through production.

• Prepare and maintain process specifications, work instructions, labor plans, profiles, and controlled engineering changes.

• Support training of production personnel on process best practices, defect prevention, safety, and standardized work.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of manufacturing engineering concepts, or electronics manufacturing experience preferred.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Strong communication, organization, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in PCB assembly, SMT, or high-mix electronics manufacturing.

• Familiarity with AS9100, IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, Lean Manufacturing, SPC, DOE, or Six Sigma principles.

• Experience using ERP systems (Cetec preferred) and Microsoft Excel for basic data analysis.