Semiconductor Assembly Machine Operator Jobs in California

Machine Operator – SMT Production - $21/hr - Sorrento Valley

Job Description

The Machine Operator will set up and operate surface-mount technology (SMT) equipment used to build printed circuit boards. This role involves performing machine changeovers and mechanical adjustments, configuring feeders, loading and running production programs through the machine’s computer interface, and verifying component placement and polarity before and during production runs. The Machine Operator monitors production quality, documents all work performed, and ensures that quality standards and manufacturing output targets are consistently achieved.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate SMT machines used in automated manufacturing of printed circuit boards.
• Perform machine changeovers, including mechanical adjustments and feeder setup, to support different product builds.
• Use the machine’s computer interface to load and run manufacturing programs that control PCB builds.
• Review and follow detailed work instructions, bills of materials, and production setup sheets for each job.
• Verify component placements, orientation, and polarity prior to and during production runs to ensure accuracy.
• Monitor production for defects, identify issues promptly, and take corrective action as needed.
• Document all work performed, including setup parameters, production results, and any adjustments or corrective actions.
• Maintain production quality and ensure manufacturing counts and output goals are achieved.
• Operate automated manufacturing and packaging equipment safely and efficiently.
• Adhere to all ESD (electrostatic discharge) requirements and procedures in the production environment.
• Comply with all facility policies, including strict adherence to the no-phone policy on the manufacturing floor.
• Collaborate with the manufacturing team and align with team goals and production culture.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience operating automated manufacturing machines, preferably SMT equipment.
• Proficiency in basic machine operation, including setup, adjustments, and routine changeovers.
• Ability to use computers to load, run, and monitor manufacturing programs and machine interfaces.
• Experience in a production or manufacturing environment, with an understanding of production workflows.
• Capability to read and follow work instructions, bills of materials, and production setup sheets accurately.
• Attention to detail when verifying component placement, orientation, and polarity on printed circuit boards.
• Ability to monitor production defects and implement appropriate corrective actions.
• Strong documentation skills to record setup information, production data, and quality-related activities.
• Commitment to following ESD safety procedures and general manufacturing floor rules, including a strict no-phone policy.
• Reliability and consistency in meeting production quality and output targets.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience operating SMT equipment in a contract manufacturing environment.
• Background in electronics or printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) manufacturing.
• Prior experience working in an ESD-controlled environment.
• Familiarity with packaging processes in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to assimilate into an established manufacturing team and support shared goals and culture.
• Willingness to grow into future roles, including potential leadership opportunities as the operation expands.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable manufacturing team where many employees have worked together for a long time, fostering a collaborative and supportive culture. The organization is experiencing significant growth, creating new opportunities for advancement and future leadership roles. They actively look for potential in their employees and focus on converting strong performers to full-time employment, promoting based on capability and growth rather than tenure alone. You can expect a consistent schedule, a clear structure, and a workplace that values providing long-term opportunity and career development for each team member.

Work Environment

This role is based in an ESD-controlled manufacturing environment focused on electronics and printed circuit board assembly. Standard hours are 1:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with a regular 30-minute meal break taken at the same time each day and minimal overtime expected. The production floor operates with automated SMT and other manufacturing and packaging equipment, and employees are expected to follow all ESD requirements and safety procedures. The team includes long-tenured manufacturing staff, and new hires are expected to integrate into the existing culture and support collective production goals. There is a strict no-phone policy on the manufacturing floor, and violation of this policy can result in removal from the role.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Diego, CA.

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in San Diego,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 9, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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.