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Smt Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OurStaff, LLC

SMT Operator

Lake Forest, CA

$20 - $26/hr

We are looking for a an SMT Operator to join a contract manufacturing PCB company located in Lake Forest, CA. This is a temp to hire opportunity and we have 2 shifts. 1st shift - 7AM-3:30PM 2nd shift ...

Manpower

SMT Operator Lead

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

As a SMT Operator Lead, you will be part of the Manufacturing Department supporting production operations. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and excellent ...

Emerald Technologies

SMT Operator II

Brea, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The SMT Operator II plays a key role in our PCB assembly process, responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring advanced SMT production equipment to ensure high‑quality, reliable builds.

XLR8 EMS

SMT Operator

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Train and assist SMT Operator I team members as needed * Follow ESD, safety, and quality procedures at all times * Work overtime as required to meet production schedules Job Requirements: * High ...

VOLT

SMT Operator

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

As a SMT Operator you will: * Knows feeder type and pitch * Knows thru hole vs SMT components * Knows how to adjust rotation on the machine for components feeders and sticks * Pin one assignment on ...

XLR8 EMS

SMT Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

Train and assist SMT Operator I team members as needed * Follow ESD, safety, and quality procedures at all times * Work overtime as required to meet production schedules Job Requirements: * High ...

Omega EMS

SMT Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

All SMT Operators are responsible to ensure highest product quality and products manufactured per MPI or Instructions. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates SMT automatic assembly ...

Naprotek LLC

SMT Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively complex SMT machine operator experience in a PCB manufacturing environment. Must read, write and understand English, understanding verbal and written ...

Omega EMS

SMT Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

All SMT Operators are responsible to ensure highest product quality and products manufactured per MPI or Instructions. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates SMT automatic assembly ...

InCube Labs

SMT Operator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced individual to operate SMT machines to place surface mount parts on PCBs. The ideal candidate should be familiar with programming equipment such as screen ...

ADURA LLC

Pick and Place SMT Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Pick and Place SMT Operator Experience with YAMAHA pick amp; place machine is preferred. General knowledge of solder pastes and solder paste printing machine. Monitor product through entire SMT ...

Rocket EMS

SMT Operator (Second Shift)

Santa Clara, CA

$20 - $25/hr

SMT OperatorAbout the Role As an SMT Operator at Rocket EMS, you will be responsible for operating and supporting surface mount technology (SMT) production processes to ensure high-quality, reliable ...

Advanced Motion Controls

SMT OPERATOR

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$19 - $27.50/hr

Minimum 2 years' experience operating SMT equipment in a fast-paced environment, including familiarity with SMT equipment operation (pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, solder paste printers)

Rocket EMS

SMT Operator (Second Shift)

Santa Clara, CA

$20 - $25/hr

SMT OperatorAbout the Role As an SMT Operator at Rocket EMS, you will be responsible for operating and supporting surface mount technology (SMT) production processes to ensure high-quality, reliable ...

Omega EMS

SMT Programmer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

The SMT operator is responsible for creating build documentation and pick and place programs to facilitate SMT automated assembly. The Operator is required to verify the First Article using the ...

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Smt Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do smt operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for smt operator in California is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an SMT operator?

An SMT operator monitors and maintains equipment used to create electronic circuits with surface mount technology (SMT). Your primary job duties involve operating an SMT machine to mount electronic components directly onto circuit boards. As an SMT operator, you play a pivotal role in the production of devices and equipment used in a range of industries, from auto manufacturing to electronics. To gain entry into this career, you should have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED certificate with SMT experience. You can also pursue a college degree in electronics or SMT operator certification through a specialized training course to gain a competitive edge. In addition to educational requirements, you need to have electronics, automated equipment, and soldering skills, along with sharp eyesight and excellent dexterity.

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

To thrive as an SMT Operator, you need knowledge of surface mount technology processes, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in electronics. Familiarity with SMT assembly machines, solder paste printers, reflow ovens, and quality inspection tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow detailed instructions help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize defects, and maintain high-quality electronic assemblies in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Is a Smt operator a good job?

A Surface Mount Technology (SMT) operator is responsible for assembling electronic components on circuit boards using specialized equipment. The job typically requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of soldering and inspection processes; it can offer stable employment and opportunities for skill development in electronics manufacturing.

What are some common challenges SMT operators face during the assembly process, and how can they be addressed?

SMT Operators often encounter challenges such as component misplacement, solder paste defects, and machine malfunctions during the assembly process. These issues can lead to production delays or quality concerns if not promptly addressed. To overcome them, operators typically perform regular equipment maintenance, follow strict quality control procedures, and collaborate closely with engineering and quality assurance teams. Continuous training and attention to detail are also key to minimizing errors and ensuring smooth production runs.

What is the difference between Smt Operator vs PCB Assembly Technician?

AspectSmt OperatorPCB Assembly Technician
CredentialsDiploma or ITI in electronics or manufacturingDiploma or ITI in electronics or manufacturing
Work EnvironmentSurface-mount technology line, electronics manufacturingAssembling printed circuit boards, electronics assembly
Industry UsageElectronics manufacturing companies, OEMsElectronics, consumer devices, industrial equipment
Job FocusOperating SMT machines, quality checksManual assembly, component placement

The Smt Operator primarily focuses on operating surface-mount technology machines and ensuring quality in electronics manufacturing. In contrast, the PCB Assembly Technician handles manual assembly and component placement on printed circuit boards. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their specific tasks and work environments.

More about Smt Operator jobs

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Cities in California with the most Smt Operator job openings:

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For Smt Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Smt Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Smt Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 11% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,536 per year, or $20 per hour.

SMT Operator

OurStaff, LLC

Lake Forest, CA

$20 - $26/hr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a an SMT Operator to join a contract manufacturing PCB company located in Lake Forest, CA. This is a temp to hire opportunity and we have 2 shifts.

1st shift - 7AM-3:30PM
2nd shift - 3:30PM-11:30PM

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Operate SMT Equipment
• Preventive Maintenance SMT and Production Equipment
• Independently operate SMT automatic assembly equipment: Screen Printer, SPI, Pick & Place, Reflow Oven to produce high quality complex circuit board assemblies.
• Responsible to setup, read and understand Set-up lists, Assembly Instructions, and assembly notes.
• Prepare and load components to feeders
• Familiar with the ESD handling procedures of sensitive electronic devices per ANSI/ESD s20.20-2007.
• Familiar with IPC-A-610 and JSTD-001 Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies.
• Identify manufacturer’s part number markings on various components.
• Identify critical component features: Package type and Size
• ROHS of non-ROHS compliance and compatibility.
• Identify, document, and report non-conforming material.
• Identify proper feeder type (8mm x 2mm, 16mm x 8mm, vibratory, etc.)
• Recognize Sn63 and Pb free solder pastes.
• Print solder paste on PCB. (From simple part to 0201, less than 15mil fine pitch and BGA packages).
• Perform routine maintenance for production equipment

Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
• Experience in SMT industry (minimum of 3 years). And SMT equipment experience: Screen Printer, SPI, Pick & Place, Reflow Oven and AOI
• Must IPC-A-610, IPC-A-620 and JSTD-001 Certified or Knowledge (minimum of 3 years)
• Ability to be trained for equipment maintenance
• Good computer skills, and MS Office

ADDITIONAL NOTES Seeking qualified candidates for SMT Operator on its manufacturing assembly team. Please note that candidates will be asked to demonstrate competent knowledge of SMT machine operations in the interview process. The SMT Operator is responsible for loading proper parts into machine and filling solder paste, the adjustment, set up and operation of SMT machines per job order and the monitoring of the product through entire SMT process

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About Ourstaff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Fountain Valley, CA, US

Year founded

2014

View All Ourstaff Jobs