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Prototype Soldering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Electronics Engineering Technician with strong expertise in PCB soldering, SMT rework, electronic assembly, and prototype development. This role supports ...

New

Be Seen First

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Electronics Engineering Technician with strong expertise in PCB soldering, SMT rework, electronic assembly, and prototype development. This role supports ...

New

Will support non-cyclical work which may include prototypes and pre-production lots in preparation ... Certification for industry specific assembly requirements such as IPC soldering standards for the ...

... prototypes * Ability to acclimate to frequently changing assignments and a fast-paced working ... Experience with soldering PCBAs, including soldering in tight spaces such as 0402 packages and high ...

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Prototype Soldering information

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$15

$26

$50

How much do prototype soldering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype soldering in the United States is $26.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Prototype Soldering vs PCB Assembly Technician?

AspectPrototype SolderingPCB Assembly Technician
CredentialsBasic soldering certifications, technical trainingSimilar soldering skills, often with additional assembly certifications
Work EnvironmentSmall-scale, custom, or experimental projectsMass production, assembly lines
Industry UsageElectronics prototyping, R&DManufacturing, electronics assembly
Search & ComparisonFocused on custom, small-batch solderingMass production soldering and assembly

Prototype Soldering involves precise, small-scale soldering for custom or experimental electronics, often in R&D settings. PCB Assembly Technicians work in high-volume manufacturing, assembling printed circuit boards on production lines. While both roles require soldering skills and similar certifications, Prototype Soldering emphasizes customization and precision, whereas PCB Assembly focuses on efficiency and mass production.

How much does a soldering job cost?

The cost of a soldering job for a prototype soldering role typically ranges from $15 to $30 per hour, depending on experience, complexity of the project, and location. Some projects may be billed flat rates or by the piece, especially for small-scale or specialized tasks. Certifications in electronics and precision skills can influence rates as well.

What are some common challenges faced when working in prototype soldering, and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges in prototype soldering is working with small, delicate components that require precision and attention to detail. Additionally, prototype builds often involve frequent design changes, so adaptability and strong communication with design engineers are essential. To overcome these challenges, it's important to stay organized, use the correct tools for fine-pitch soldering, and maintain a clean workstation. Regular collaboration with other team members helps ensure that any design updates or issues are quickly communicated and resolved.

What is prototype soldering?

Prototype soldering is the process of manually assembling and connecting electronic components on a circuit board during the early stages of product development. It typically involves soldering components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) to test and refine new designs before mass production. This work requires precision, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of electronic circuits. Prototype soldering helps engineers identify and fix design flaws, ensuring the final product functions as intended.

Can you make a career out of soldering?

Prototype soldering can be a viable career path for those with technical skills in electronics and precision work. Opportunities exist in manufacturing, electronics repair, and product development, often requiring certifications and experience with soldering tools and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Prototype Soldering Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prototype Soldering Technician, you need a solid understanding of electronics, PCB assembly, and precise hand-soldering skills, often supported by IPC certification or similar credentials. Familiarity with soldering irons, microscopes, rework stations, and inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and strong problem-solving abilities help technicians excel in assembling and troubleshooting complex prototypes. These skills are crucial to ensure prototypes are built accurately and reliably, supporting effective product development and testing.

Does soldering make good money?

Prototype soldering jobs can offer moderate pay, often depending on experience, skill level, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay around minimum wage, while experienced solderers working in specialized or high-tech environments can earn higher wages, sometimes supplemented by overtime or certifications. Overall, soldering is typically considered a skilled trade with earning potential that varies by location and employer.

Is soldering an in demand skill?

Soldering is a valuable skill in electronics manufacturing, repair, and prototyping roles such as prototype soldering. As electronic devices become more complex, demand for skilled solderers with knowledge of circuit assembly and quality standards remains steady across various industries.
More about Prototype Soldering jobs
Infographic showing various Prototype Soldering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,312 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Avionics PCBA Soldering Technician

Avionics PCBA Soldering Technician

Vast

Long Beach, CA

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Vast is looking for an Avionics PCBA Soldering Technician, reporting to the Supervisor of Avionics Manufacturing, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

This will be a full-time, non-exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Shift:

  • First shift: 6am-2:30pm PST 
  • Second shift: 2pm-10:30pm PST

Responsibilities: 

  • Execute complex soldering and repair procedures on PCBA in strict adherence to IPC-J-STD-001 Space Addendum Standards
  • Collaborate closely with engineering to transform concepts into reality
  • Monitor one's own work progress against established standards and deliver all work on schedule
  • Examine, interpret, and use drawings and regulated documentation and procedures
  • Understand intricate cable harnesses, wiring diagrams, mechanical and layout drawings, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Verify flight hardware and thoroughly document outcomes
  • Aid in developing manufacturing processes for initial production runs
  • Contribute to projects aimed at increasing operational efficiency in the area

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 3+ years of experience soldering PCBA assembles
  • 2+ years of experience using basic mechanical, electronics hand tools, and/or electronics equipment (e.g. programmable power supplies, DMMs, oscilloscopes, etc.)

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Possession of an associate degree
  • Previous involvement in a high-speed production environment, handling flight hardware
  • Prior involvement in a high-output environment, involving hands-on experience in electro-mechanical devices, or building prototypes
  • Ability to acclimate to frequently changing assignments and a fast-paced working environment
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, along with effective teamwork abilities
  • Superb focus and attention to detail, with remarkable work efficiency and accuracy
  • Experience with soldering PCBAs, including soldering in tight spaces such as 0402 packages and high-density ICs, installing jumpers, and performing dead-bugging
  • Expertise in manufacturing and repairing intricate testing systems
  • Familiarity with Atlassian tools such as SVN, Confluence, and JIRA
  • Basic comprehension of electronic principles and theory
  • Skills in project management

Additional Requirements:

  • Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted