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Smt Machine Programming Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

... PCBA/SMT manufacturing strongly preferred * PLC programming certifications, robotics experience, machine vision systems expertise preferred * Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and stand for ...

... PCBA/SMT manufacturing strongly preferred * PLC programming certifications, robotics experience, machine vision systems expertise preferred * Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and stand for ...

... and SMT production equipment, including pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, wave soldering ... Partner with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to support new equipment installation, line ...

... and SMT production equipment, including pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, wave soldering ... Partner with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to support new equipment installation, line ...

Smt Machine Programming information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do smt machine programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for smt machine programming in Milwaukee, WI is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is SMT machine programming?

SMT machine programming involves creating and optimizing the software instructions that control Surface Mount Technology (SMT) machines, which are used to place electronic components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) during manufacturing. This process includes generating pick-and-place programs, setting up component libraries, and configuring machine parameters to ensure accurate, high-speed assembly. SMT programmers work closely with engineers and production teams to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and adapt to design changes. Mastery of SMT programming is essential for efficient electronics manufacturing and maintaining high product quality.

What is the difference between Smt Machine Programming vs Smt Operator?

AspectSmt Machine ProgrammingSmt Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications, training in SMT programmingBasic technical knowledge, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesigning, coding, and testing SMT programs in manufacturing settingsOperating SMT machines on the production line
Employer & IndustryElectronics manufacturing, PCB assemblyElectronics manufacturing, PCB assembly

Smt Machine Programming involves creating and optimizing programs for SMT machines, requiring technical skills and certifications. In contrast, Smt Operators focus on running and maintaining the machines during production. Both roles are essential in electronics manufacturing, but they differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by SMT Machine Programmers, and how can they be addressed?

SMT Machine Programmers often encounter challenges such as optimizing machine setups for new PCB designs, minimizing downtime due to changeovers, and troubleshooting placement or soldering issues. These challenges can be addressed by staying up-to-date with the latest software updates, collaborating closely with process engineers and production teams, and continuously analyzing production data to identify areas for improvement. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for ensuring smooth production and high-quality output.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an SMT Machine Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an SMT Machine Programmer, you need a solid understanding of electronics manufacturing processes, PCB assembly, and experience with surface mount technology, often backed by technical diplomas or certifications. Familiarity with SMT programming software (such as Fuji, Yamaha, or Panasonic systems), CAD tools, and knowledge of IPC standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for optimizing production and resolving issues. Mastering these skills ensures efficient, high-quality circuit board assembly and minimizes costly production errors.
What job categories do people searching Smt Machine Programming jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Smt Machine Programming jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Smt Machine Programming jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Smt Machine Programming job openings:
Infographic showing various Smt Machine Programming job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,782 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
SMT Process Control Engineer

SMT Process Control Engineer

Milwaukee Electronics

Milwaukee, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

At Milwaukee Electronics, acceleration isnโ€™t just what we do; itโ€™s how we grow. As an electronics manufacturing services provider with more than 70 years of innovation, we partner with customers to turn ideas into reality. We invest in our people through learning, advancement, and a culture that truly cares. If youโ€™re looking for meaningful work, strong teamwork, and room to go beyond, youโ€™ll feel at home here.

SUMMARYย 

The SMT Process Control Engineer is responsible for owning, defining, and sustaining manufacturing processes to ensure consistent execution, stability, and quality across production. This role focuses on process discipline, standardization, and control, using statistical process control (SPC) and data analysis as tools to monitor performance, detect variation, and drive corrective action.

This position is embedded directly on the SMT production floor and requires a continuous on-floor presence. The SMT Process Control Engineer works alongside operators, technicians, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production teams on the line to establish clear process expectations, maintain control plans and reaction plans, and ensure processes are followed, understood, and capable over time. This is a hands-on, floor-based role, not a desk-based or remote engineering position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following:
ย 

Manufacturing Process Ownership

  • Own and sustain defined manufacturing processes to ensure consistent execution across shifts and product lines
  • Establish, document, and maintain standard work, process flows, and operating parameters for SMT processes including solder paste printing, reflow, wave/selective soldering, and inspection
  • Ensure processes are clearly defined, understood, and followed by production teams
  • Regularly observe process execution on the production floor and address gaps in adherence or understanding
  • Maintain a consistent presence on the SMT production line to observe real-time process execution, support operators, and immediately address process variation or non-conformance

Process Control & Stability

  • Develop and maintain process control plans and reaction plans for critical manufacturing processes
  • Define key process parameters (KPPs) and critical-to-quality (CTQ) characteristics across SMT operations โ€” including solder paste volume, reflow profile parameters, and placement accuracy
  • Use SPC and other monitoring methods to confirm process stability and capability
  • Lead response and corrective action when processes deviate from defined expectations

SPC & Data-Driven Enforcement

  • Implement and sustain SPC methodologies to support process control and early detection of variation
  • Select appropriate control chart types and sampling approaches
  • Analyze SPC data to identify trends, special cause variation, and opportunities for improvement
  • Ensure SPC results drive timely action, not just reporting

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

  • Lead and support root cause analysis related to process variation, defects, and escapes
  • Drive process improvements focused on variation reduction, yield improvement, and defect prevention
  • Support process validation, qualification, and change implementation
  • Validate improvements through defined process metrics and data analysis

Cross-Functional & Floor Engagement

  • Operate primarily from the SMT production floor, partnering directly with operators, technicians, and supervisors rather than working from a traditional engineering office environment
  • Provide hands-on coaching and training to operators and technicians on process discipline and control
  • Support NPI, process transfers, and production ramp-ups by establishing stable, repeatable processes
  • Communicate process risks, gaps, and improvement opportunities clearly to stakeholders

Quality & Compliance Support

  • Ensure manufacturing processes and controls align with ISO, AS, IPC, and customer requirements
  • Support audits, CAPA activities, and customer issues related to process performance
  • Maintain accurate and controlled process documentation
QUALIFICATIONSย 
ย 

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Statistics, or a related technical field
  • 4โ€“6 years of experience in SPC, process control, quality engineering, or manufacturing engineering
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in electronics manufacturing or SMT production environments strongly preferred
  • Hands-on experience with SMT processes, including solder paste printing, reflow, wave/selective soldering, or AOI/SPI
  • Familiarity with SMT capital equipment such as screen printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, or AOI/SPI systems
  • Experience in regulated manufacturing environments (ISO 9001, AS9100, IPC standards)

ย Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Advanced knowledge of statistical process control and process capability analysis
  • Experience with SPC methodologies, control charts, and reaction planning
  • Proficiency with statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel)
  • Working knowledge of PFMEA, control plans, and process validation
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and influence cross-functional teams
ย 
Physical Demandsย 
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Regular standing, walking, and sitting in a manufacturing environment
  • Occasionalย lifting upย to 25 pounds
  • Frequent use of computer and analytical tools
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.ย 
  • SMT and electronics manufacturing production floor environment
  • Primary work location is on the production floor and SMT line, not in an engineering office area
  • Regular interaction with SMT capital equipment including screen printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and AOI/SPI systems
  • Moderate noise levels typical of a production environment
  • Daily, continuous on-site presence required to support operations and real-time process control

ITAR Compliance Requirement
This position is located within an ITAR-regulated facility. Due to the nature of the work and access to controlled information, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or refugees).

MILWAUKEE ELECTRONICS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 414-228-5000 or hr@milwaukeeelectronics.com.

For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster:ย Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (eeoc.gov).ย 
ย ย 
Because this job has access to controlled technology, we must comply with ITAR. Any job offers will be contingent on verification that the candidate is a U.S. person (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent resident, or individual granted asylum/refugee status in the U.S.) or can otherwise satisfy ITAR compliance requirements. If applicable, if an individual is not a U.S. person, our policy is to not take the extra step of seeking approval from the federal government for that person to work in this position.
ย ย 
Upon hire, the successful candidate must present acceptable proof of identity and current authorization to work in the U.S., as required on Form I-9. We do not provide sponsorship support for employment-based visas such as H-1B.