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Surface Mount Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

Reliable Temps Inc

Machine Operator

Palmer, MA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

SMT Operator

Coopersville, MI · On-site

$20/hr

SMT Machine Operator - Coopersville, MI 2nd Shift: 3 PM - 11 PM 3rd Shift: 11 PM - 7 AM Pay: $20/hr ... In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining Surface Mount ...

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ETEMCO

SMT Operator

Lancaster, PA

$20 - $25/hr

Responsible for setup, operation, and maintenance of surface-mount machinery (Stencil Printer, Samsung/Hanwha Pick and Place, and Reflow Ovens) * Follows written and verbal work instructions.

Aerotek

Smt Machine Operator

Chippewa Lake, OH

$20 - $30/hr

SMT Machine Operator | 1st Shift | $20-30+HR We are seeking a dedicated Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Operator and Setup Technician. This role involves operating and setting up SMT equipment, with ...

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Surface Mount Machine Operator information

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

As of Jul 17, 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.

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 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 a skilled worker responsible for operating and maintaining surface mount technology (SMT) machines used to place electronic components onto printed circuit boards (PCBs). They set up the machines, load components, monitor the assembly process, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. This role requires attention to detail, technical know-how, and often experience with quality control standards in electronics manufacturing. Surface Mount Machine Operators play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and accurate assembly of electronic devices.
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:
What job categories do people searching Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs are:
Surface Mount Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Mount Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Machine Operator

ZF Group

Marshall, IL • On-site

$18.50 - $22.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

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 Technology) equipment.
What you can look forward to as a Machine Operator
  • Set up machine operation at the start of the shift to include:
    • Verify PCB identification, program name, conveyor width, solder paste, mistake proofing, etc.
  • Troubleshoot various pieces of equipment (i.e. placement machine, reflow oven - KIC system, etc.) as needed.
  • Performs operation, setup, and product changeover.
  • Knowledgeable of manufacturing instructions.
  • Occasionally change feeders, splice reels, scan parts.
  • Understand Panapro for correct part identification.
  • Perform hourly SPC inspections, where applicable, also includes start-up and changeovers.
  • Perform EPIC inspection per instruction to be done hourly, at start-up, and during changeovers.
  • Perform daily, weekly, monthly, and tri-monthly (per work order instructions) maintenance on the machine according to the rotational maintenance schedule.
  • Benchmark placement of machine(s) & laser etch to be verified, where applicable.
  • Assist Cell Leads with training new operators
  • Must become certified and perform:
    • All machines within assigned line (qualified within business unit)
  • Comply with and support the health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Your Profile as a Machine Operator
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must be able to perform reading and math functions at the 8th grade level.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Must be able to rotate into final assembly positions within assigned line, including ICT.
  • Must successfully complete applied mechanics and workmanship standards classes.
  • Excellent attention to detail.

Why you should choose ZF in Marshall, IL?
The expected base compensation for this role is $18.50 - $22.76 hourly. Actual base compensation within the identified range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.
What We Offer:
  • Annual Incentive Plan
  • Paid time off
  • 401k Plan
  • Health Care Benefits
  • Paid Holidays
  • A supportive collaborative team environment
  • Tuition reimbursement for educational advancement
  • A strong diversity culture
  • Supportive Employee Groups and community outreach activities

Be part of our ZF team as Machine Operator and apply now!
Contact
Rachel Rainey
+1 217 826 1460
DIVERSITY COMMITMENT:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more than just words for us. They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a natural reflex. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that every member of ZF can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape next generation mobility, safety, sustainability and social justice.
With four generations across 118 nationalities in 41 countries, ZF combines a unique variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. Together, we solve problems, drive innovation and shape next generation mobility.
Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran
What does DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) mean for ZF as a company?
At ZF, we continuously strive to build and maintain a culture where inclusiveness is lived and diversity is valued. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that all our employees can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this vision in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape the future of mobility.
Find out how we work at ZF:

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