Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: SMT Operator I
Job Description

The SMT Operator I supports surface mount technology (SMT) manufacturing operations by setting up, operating, and maintaining SMT production lines to produce high-quality electronic assemblies in accordance with IPC standards and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Set up and tear down SMT production lines and associated equipment according to established procedures.
• Operate SMT machines, including pick-and-place equipment, printers, and reflow ovens, to manufacture electronic assemblies.
• Review and follow IPC standards, internal work instructions, drawings, procedures, and customer documentation to ensure product quality and compliance.
• Perform basic machine edits and in-process troubleshooting to maintain efficient and accurate production.
• Archive machine-generated production reports and maintain accurate production records.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance on SMT equipment to ensure reliable and safe operation.
• Produce products in compliance with IPC quality standards and internal quality expectations.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures while working on the production floor.
• Collaborate with production leadership and team members to meet production goals and resolve issues.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by production leadership to support overall manufacturing operations.

Essential Skills

• 1–2 years of SMT operation or electronics manufacturing experience preferred, with entry-level candidates considered.
• Hands-on experience with surface mount technology (SMT) and SMT machine operating.
• Ability to operate SMT machines, printers, and reflow ovens in a production environment.
• Strong mechanical dexterity and fine motor skills for handling small electronic components.
• Ability to read and understand work instructions, diagrams, drawings, and procedures.
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office and machine interfaces.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
• Strong attention to detail, with solid organization and prioritization skills.
• Ability to follow IPC standards and internal quality guidelines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with electronic assembly and general assembly processes.
• Ability to interpret blueprints and technical documentation.
• Comfort with basic in-process troubleshooting of SMT equipment.
• Willingness to learn and cross-train on additional equipment and processes.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with production leadership and team members.
• Motivation to grow into lead or advanced roles as skills develop.

Why Work Here?

Join a modern, well-organized manufacturing facility that offers a clean, climate-controlled environment and multiple shift options to support work-life balance. You will have opportunities for cross-training, skill development, and potential advancement into lead roles as you grow. The team-oriented culture encourages learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement, providing a strong foundation for building a long-term career in electronics manufacturing.

Work Environment

This role is based in a clean, organized, and climate-controlled electronics manufacturing facility. SMT Operators work on the production floor with SMT machines, printers, and reflow ovens, using computers and machine interfaces as part of daily tasks. Multiple shifts are available, including a first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and a second shift from 2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The environment emphasizes safety, adherence to procedures, and consistent product quality, with structured workflows and clear work instructions.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Tempe, AZ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tempe,AZ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 29, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.