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Surface Mount Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Twinsburg, OH ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Duration: 05 - 06 Months with possibility of extension Location: Twinsburg, OH ... Works with Surface Mount Technologies and other machining processes Set up and operate multiple ...

Machine Operator

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... a Machine Operator. With this role the employee is responsible for Operate and maintain surface ... Perform daily operation of surface mount and/or auto insertion machines for assembly of printed ...

Machine Operator

Alpharetta, GA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines ... Learns and practices standard operating procedures * Maintains prompt and regular attendance based ...

SMT Machine Operator 1st Shift

Boonton, NJ ยท On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Responsible for setting up and operating printed circuit board assembly machinery utilizing surface mount technology. Expertise is applied to setting up and using the solder paste screen machine ...

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SMT Machine Operator Type of Role: Temp to Hire Shift / Hours : 1st 6am to 2:30pm M-F /2nd Shift 2 ... knowledge of Surface Mount Technology processes and equipment Ability to read, write and ...

As a Surface Mount Operator SMT you will: * Program, set up, and operate SMT Surface Mount ... The ideal candidate will have: * 1+ year of SMT machine operation and setup experience , including ...

SMT Operator

Chelmsford, MA ยท On-site

$23 - $25/hr

SMT Machine Operator II $23-$25hr We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented SMT Machine Operator to join our Surface Mount team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating ...

SMT Operator

Milpitas, CA ยท 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 ...

Mount (load) components in correct feeder location onto surface mount machinery, using appropriate procedures and work instructions, to produce surface mount assemblies per specification. Manually ...

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... operating Surface Mount Technology (SMT) equipment including pick-and-place machines, screen ... printers, and reflow ovens in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Essential Duties ...

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Surface Mount Machine Operator information

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$12

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$23

How much do surface mount machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface mount machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is SMT operator a good job?

Surface Mount Machine (SMT) operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining surface mount technology equipment used in electronics manufacturing. The job typically offers steady employment, requires attention to detail, and may involve shift work; certifications in electronics or machinery operation can enhance job prospects. Overall, it can be a stable career for those interested in manufacturing and technology.

What are some common challenges Surface Mount Machine Operators face during production, and how can they be addressed?

Surface Mount Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as component misfeeds, solder paste alignment issues, and machine downtime due to maintenance needs. Addressing these challenges typically involves routine equipment checks, careful setup and calibration, and close attention to quality control procedures. Operators work closely with quality assurance and engineering teams to troubleshoot problems quickly, ensuring smooth production flow and minimizing defects. Continuous training and adherence to safety protocols also play a vital role in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surface Mount Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surface Mount Machine Operator, you need knowledge of electronics assembly, soldering techniques, and the ability to interpret assembly drawings, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training in electronics manufacturing. Familiarity with SMT equipment, pick-and-place machines, and quality inspection tools such as AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure high-quality, efficient production of electronic circuit boards and to minimize errors in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Surface Mount Machine Operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in electronics manufacturing can earn higher wages, especially in roles requiring precision and technical expertise. Supervisory or specialized roles in high-demand industries may also offer higher pay for machine operators. Overall, roles involving complex equipment and quality control tend to be the highest paying in the field.

How much do SMT operators make in the US?

Surface Mount Machine (SMT) operators in the US typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What is the difference between Surface Mount Machine Operator vs Pick and Place Machine Operator?

AspectSurface Mount Machine OperatorPick and Place Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentElectronics manufacturing, assembly linesElectronics manufacturing, assembly lines
Industry UsageCommon in PCB assemblyCommon in PCB assembly
Job FocusOperating surface mount machines to place componentsOperating pick and place machines for component placement

Both roles involve operating machinery in electronics manufacturing, with similar credentials and work environments. The main difference lies in the specific equipment used: Surface Mount Machine Operators focus on surface mount technology machines, while Pick and Place Machine Operators handle pick and place equipment. Both roles are essential in PCB assembly and often overlap in daily tasks.

What is a surface mount machine operator?

A surface mount machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining surface mount technology (SMT) pick-and-place machines used to assemble electronic circuit boards. They ensure proper placement of components, monitor machine performance, and troubleshoot issues to maintain production quality and efficiency. This role often requires knowledge of electronics, attention to detail, and familiarity with manufacturing safety standards.
More about Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Surface Mount Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surface Mount Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

MARS Solutions Group

Twinsburg, OH โ€ข On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Contractor

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Machine Operator

Duration: 05 - 06 Months with possibility of extension

Location: Twinsburg, OH 44087

Shift:ย 3rd Shift โ€“ 10:30 PM to 6:30 AM, Monday to Friday

Description:

Sets up and operates a variety of automatic or semi-automatic machines used in the production of the company's product.

Works from process sheets or written/verbal instructions given by supervisor to perform production tasks.

Checks and inspects operation against predetermined tolerances.

Skills:ย 

Works with Surface Mount Technologies and other machining processes

Set up and operate multiple machines and work stations at once - Works with components and full PC board layouts for final product creation

Creates and applies labels onto PCBs (manually and/or automated)

Burns firmware programs into electronic components using programming machines

Prepares reels and feeders for use on surface mount technology (SMT) machines; counts materials and moves to production line

Sets up and operates optical inspection machine and performs visual classification and repair of rejected boards

Follows established procedures on routine work and standard operating procedures

Frequently interacts with peers and customers (typically internal) to exchange or present factual information

Operates plated through-hole (PTH) machine to install axial, radial and DIP electronic components onto PCBs

Makes setups and adjustments holding tolerances to blueprint specifications

Perform other duties as needed

Basic qualifications:

At least 18 years of age

High School Diploma or GED OR 1 year of related work experience

Preferred qualifications:

Preferred a minimum of 1+ years of related experience in machining or electronics field but not required

Basic Computer Literacy

Basic Reading and Writing

Qualification:

Typically requires no previous related experience. Acquires job skills and learns company policies and procedures to complete routine tasks.

Completed High School (Diploma or GED)