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Wave Solder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wave Solder Machine Operator

Olathe, KS ยท On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Wave Solder Machine Operator Location: Olathe, Kansas Department: Through Hole Assembly Reports To: Production Supervisor Hours: Monday thru Thursday 6:00am to 3:30pm. Friday from 6:00am to 2:30pm.

Wave Solder Machine Operator

Olathe, KS ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Wave Solder Machine Operator Location: Olathe, Kansas Department: Through Hole Assembly Reports To: Production Supervisor Hours: Monday thru Thursday 6:00am to 3:30pm. Friday from 6:00am to 2:30pm.

Wave Solder Machine Operator Location: Melbourne, FL Employment Type: Temp to direct Industry: Electro-Mechanical Manufacturing Compensation: $18.00-$20.00 (depending upon experience) +10% shift ...

Soldering Operator

Vandalia, OH ยท On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Inspect solder joints for quality, defects, and conformance to specifications * Use soldering tools such as soldering irons, reflow ovens, wave solder machines, and related equipment * Identify and ...

Soldering Operator

Vandalia, OH

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Inspect solder joints for quality, defects, and conformance to specifications * Use soldering tools such as soldering irons, reflow ovens, wave solder machines, and related equipment * Identify and ...

Solder Technician

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$21/hr

Perform post-wave soldering inspections, touch-ups, and repairs on circuit card assemblies (CCAs) * Complete manual soldering and rework of through-hole components to IPC-A-610 quality standards

$130K - $140K/yr

SMT and Wave Solder experience a must * Solid understanding of Solders, Fluxes, bonding chemicals used in manufacturing process. * Expert understanding of wave solder processes, both for Leaded and ...

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Wave Solder information

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$12

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$27

How much do wave solder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for wave solder in the United States is $19.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wave solder operator?

A Wave Solder operator is a technician responsible for operating and maintaining wave soldering machines used in the assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs). This process involves passing PCBs over a wave of molten solder to attach electronic components to the board. Operators ensure proper machine setup, monitor solder quality, and troubleshoot issues to maintain production efficiency. They also perform routine maintenance and adhere to safety and quality standards. This role is essential in electronics manufacturing for producing reliable and consistent electronic assemblies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wave solder operator?

To thrive as a Wave Solder, you need a solid understanding of electronic components, PCB assembly, and basic soldering techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with wave soldering machines, inspection tools, and adherence to IPC-A-610 standards is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work efficiently in a team environment are standout soft skills. These skills are crucial for ensuring high-quality electronic assemblies, minimizing defects, and maintaining production efficiency.

What are some common challenges wave solder operators face during production, and how can they be addressed?

Wave solder operators often encounter challenges such as solder bridging, insufficient solder coverage, and component misalignment. These issues can usually be mitigated by carefully adjusting machine settings, maintaining optimal conveyor speeds, and ensuring proper preheating. Regular equipment maintenance and thorough inspection of printed circuit boards (PCBs) before and after soldering are essential practices. Operators also benefit from close collaboration with quality control and engineering teams to quickly resolve defects and improve process reliability.

What is the difference between Wave Solder vs Through-Hole Technician?

AspectWave SolderThrough-Hole Technician
Primary RoleOperates wave solder machines to solder through-hole components on PCBsAssembles, tests, and repairs through-hole electronic components and assemblies
CertificationsTypically requires soldering certifications and technical trainingRequires soldering skills, technical training, and possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor, working with soldering equipmentElectronics assembly area, testing stations, repair workshops
Industry UsageElectronics manufacturing, PCB assemblyElectronics repair, manufacturing, and assembly

Wave Solder technicians focus on operating soldering machines to attach components to PCBs, while Through-Hole Technicians handle the assembly, testing, and repair of through-hole components. Both roles require soldering skills and technical knowledge but differ in their specific responsibilities and work environments.

More about Wave Solder jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Wave Solder jobs?

The most popular types of Wave Solder jobs are:

What states have the most Wave Solder jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wave Solder jobs include:

What other helpful pages are available for Wave Solder?

Other pages related to Wave Solder:

Infographic showing various Wave Solder job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,675 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Wave Solder Machine Operator

Olathe, KS โ€ข On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Wave Solder Machine Operator

Location: Olathe, Kansas

Department: Through Hole Assembly

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Hours: Monday thru Thursday 6:00am to 3:30pm.ย  Friday from 6:00am to 2:30pm.ย  Every other Friday off.ย  Occasional extension of typical hours may be necessary, depending upon business needs.

Job Summary

The Wave Solder Machine Operator is responsible for setup, operation, monitoring, and light maintenance of wave soldering equipment used in the assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs). This position ensures products are soldered according to quality standards, production requirements, and safety guidelines while supporting continuous improvement efforts within the manufacturing process.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate wave solder machines according to production schedules, work instructions, and manufacturing specifications.
  • Monitor soldering processes to ensure proper solder flow, temperature control, and product quality.
  • Load, unload, and process PCB assemblies through the wave solder system.
  • Inspect completed assemblies for solder defects including bridging, insufficient solder, cold solder joints, and other workmanship issues.
  • Perform light routine machine maintenance, cleaning, and preventive maintenance activities.
  • Escalate process issues and concerns as needed.
  • Complete production records, quality documentation.
  • Collaborate with Process Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve manufacturing issues and improve processes.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with 6S and company standards.

Qualifications

  • Previous wave solder machine operation experience preferred.
  • Experience in electronics manufacturing, PCB assembly, or Through-hole assembly preferred.
  • Basic understanding of soldering processes and electronic components.
  • Ability to read and interpret work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical Requirements

  • Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions involving hands and arms.
  • Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 5 pounds regularly and up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Ability to visually inspect small electronic components and solder joints.