2nd Shift AOI Operator – Electronics Manufacturing (PCBA / SMT)

2nd Shift AOI Operator – Electronics Manufacturing (PCBA / SMT)

Location: Seymour, CT

Shift: 2nd Shift

Position Type: Full-Time

Department: Quality Inspection / SMT Manufacturing

Industry: Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS)

Position Overview

The 2nd Shift AOI Operator is responsible for operating Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) equipment to inspect printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) for component, placement, and soldering anomalies. Working within a high-reliability electronics manufacturing environment, this individual loads inspection programs, evaluates automated test results, identifies and logs assembly defects, and collaborates with SMT machine operators and quality teams to maintain high first-pass yield and continuous production flow.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Machine Setup & Operation:
  

  • Setup, operate, and monitor Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems in accordance with standard operating procedures and production schedules.
    

  • Load proper inspection programs and recipes corresponding to specific assembly part numbers and revisions.
    

  • Safely load, align, run, and unload PCB assemblies through the AOI conveyor/chambers without causing physical or electrostatic damage.
    

• Defect Identification & Quality Logging:
  

  • Review, verify, and classify inspection flags (e.g., missing components, misaligned parts, wrong polarity, tombstoning, insufficient/excess solder, bridging, and solder balls).
    

  • Accurately log defects, false calls, and inspection dispositions into the Manufacturing Execution System / Shop Floor Tracking System (Aegis MIS).
    

  • Troubleshoot minor machine feed or stoppage issues, and promptly escalate recurring line defects or major equipment errors to the shift supervisor or quality engineering.
    

• Teamwork, Safety & Shop Floor Discipline:
  

  • Maintain open, professional communication with SMT operators, rework technicians, and line leads to provide timely quality feedback on upstream assembly defects.
    

  • Work effectively in a fast-paced environment to meet shift throughput goals and schedule deadlines.
    

  • Adhere strictly to Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protocols, facility safety standards, OSHA rules, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
    

  • Maintain an organized, clean 5S workstation throughout the shift.
    

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education & Experience:
  

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
    

  • 0 to 3 years of experience in electronics assembly, surface mount technology (SMT), or optical inspection (entry-level candidates with mechanical/electronic aptitude or technical training are encouraged to apply).
    

• Certifications & Training:
  

  • IPC-A-610 Certification required (or ability to achieve and maintain certification upon hire).
    

  • Component Identification training required (understanding passive components, ICs, polarity markings, and reference designators).
    

• Computer & Systems Skills:
  

  • Basic computer literacy (system startup/shutdown, file directory navigation, basic data entry).
    

  • Working knowledge or proficiency with Shop Floor Tracking / MIS platforms (such as Aegis) is strongly preferred.
    

• Core Competencies:
  

  • High visual acuity and strong attention to detail for fine-pitch electronic inspection.
    

  • Solid teamwork, active listening, and problem-solving skills with the ability to maintain accuracy under time pressure.
    

  • Adaptability to shifting production priorities and positive team collaboration.
    

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Well-lit, climate-controlled electronics manufacturing floor.
  

• Continuous visual inspection using high-resolution monitors and optical equipment.
  

• Prolonged standing, walking, and sitting along the SMT line.
  

• Handling delicate circuit boards requiring mandatory ESD-safe Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including ESD coats, wrist straps, and heel grounders.