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Surface Mount Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NOVA PERSONNEL LLC

Assembly Operator

Houston, TX

$11 - $13/hr

Mount (load) components in correct feeder location onto surface mount machinery, using appropriate ... Operator should possess but not required, at least one of the following: 1. Training from the ...

Pro-Tech Staffing

Machine Operator

Richardson, TX · On-site

$22/hr

SMT / PCB Machine Operator II Job Summary We are seeking an experienced SMT / PCB Machine Operator II to set up, operate, and maintain surface mount technology (SMT) and printed circuit board (PCB ...

ALTEK Electronics

SMT Machine Operator I

Torrington, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Summary The SMT Machine Operator is responsible for setup and operation of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) machines. Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the SMT Machine Operator I at Altek ...

TALENIQUE INC

Senior SMT Operator

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

SMT Operator Location: Merrimack, New Hampshire Department: Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Schedule ... Operate SMT machines to place surface mount components and solder reflow devices onto printed ...

ADURA LLC

Pick and Place SMT Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Surface mount technology (SMT) machine operators work with SMT machines which solder small parts such asPrinted circuit Board, transformers, sockets, and other electronic components. Good manual ...

ZF

Machine Operator

Marshall, IL

$18.50 - $22.76/hr

Req ID 84105 | Elec Op - Marshall, United States ZF Active Safety and Electronics US LLC About the Team Machine operators are direct labor employee responsible for operating SMT (Surface Mount ...

ZF Group

Machine Operator

Marshall, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $22.76/hr

Req ID 84105 | Elec Op - Marshall, United States ZF Active Safety and Electronics US LLC About the Team Machine operators are direct labor employee responsible for operating SMT (Surface Mount ...

ZF Group

Machine Operator

Marshall, IL · On-site

$22.76/hr

Req ID 84105 | Elec Op - Marshall, United States ZF Active Safety and Electronics US LLC About the Team Machine operators are direct labor employee responsible for operating SMT (Surface Mount ...

Reliable Temps Inc

Machine Operator

Palmer, MA

$19/hr

Responsible for performing coating and related production operations in the manufacture of surface ... Set plates and mount them onto shafts as required * Perform general material handling and support ...

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All JobsSurface Mount Machine Operator Jobs

Surface Mount Machine Operator information

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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:
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Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs near you
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.

Surface Mount Operator - 2nd Shift

Hire Energy

Richardson, TX

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: SMT OPERATOR 2nd Shift

Location: Garland, TX 75041

Hours: 2nd Shift: (3pm-11:30pm) Monday-Friday

Pay Rate: up to $25./hr (Depending on Experience)

Looking for motivated individuals with Surface Mount Technology (SMT) operation set up experience. Candidate should be familiar with Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly particularly working with SMT equipment such as screen printers, pick and place machines, reflow ovens, and Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) machines.

**An understanding of the SMT Assembly Process is required which includes the identification of SMT component packages.

**Certification in IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001 is a plus.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced SMT Operator to join our Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) team. In this role, you will be responsible for the setup, operation, and basic maintenance of Surface Mount Technology equipment. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to quality and a proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced contract manufacturing environment while strictly adhering to aerospace and medical quality standards (AS9100D and ISO 13485).
Benefits
Medical insurance, Prescription drug coverage, Wellness program
Culture
Our staffing professionals are committed to meeting your individual needs and exceeding your expectations. Experienced top-quality candidates are the result of our extensive screening process, in-depth evaluations, industry-specific testing, and reference checking.
Responsibilities
This is a second shift (3 pm - 11:20 pm) job
Key Responsibilities
  • Machine Operation: Setup, program, and operate SMT assembly line equipment, including screen printers, pick-and-place machines, and reflow ovens.
  • Component Preparation: Accurately load electronic components onto feeders and reels, verifying part numbers and values against the Bill of Materials (BOM) to prevent loading errors.
  • Quality Assurance: Perform First Article Inspections (FAI) and routine in-process visual inspections of PCBs to ensure correct component placement, solder paste application, and overall board quality.
  • Compliance: Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with internal routing instructions, IPC-A-610 acceptability standards, AS9100D (aerospace), and ISO 13485 (medical device) regulations.
  • Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve minor machine faults, feeder jams, and alignment issues during production runs. Report major mechanical or programming issues to engineering or maintenance teams.
  • Maintenance: Perform daily, weekly, and monthly preventative maintenance on SMT equipment and keep accurate maintenance logs.
  • Documentation: Accurately complete production logs, traceability records, and traveler documents for each assembly run.
  • Continuous Improvement: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by following 5S principles and participating in continuous improvement initiatives.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Experience: Minimum of 1–3 years of experience operating SMT equipment in an electronics manufacturing or PCBA environment.
  • Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with recognizing electronic components (e.g., resistors, capacitors, ICs) and understanding polarity and orientation.
  • Standards Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards. Previous experience working under AS9100D and ISO 13485 quality management systems is highly preferred.
  • Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and precision in handling miniature components and reviewing fine details.
  • Computer Skills: Basic computer literacy to navigate machine software and maintain digital production records.
  • Communication: Good verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with quality assurance, engineering, and warehouse teams.

Requirements
Authorized to work in the US without sponsorship
Accept a background check to be performed
Accept a drug test to be performed
Knowledge in: SMT
Knowledge in: Hand Soldering
Knowledge in: PC Board QC
Equal Opportunity Employer
Hire Energy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Requisition #cmpwasu7qxqsw0jlcc1yttuk7