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Wave Solder Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SMT Engineer Sr - Crawfordsville, IN

Crawfordsville, IN ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Lead and provide technical support for SMT, Wave Solder, and Conformal Coating processes, including ... Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance strategies and machine installation Ensure ...

Manufacturing Engineer II, Wave Solder

Andover, MA ยท On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

... operator support. Individual will be required to participate in process improvement initiatives ... Computer and machine programming for manufacturing automation * Dispositioning of discrepant ...

Assembler-2nd Shift

Oldsmar, FL ยท On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... wave solder machine). Strong visual inspection skills; ability to use microscopes and AOI equipment to detect defects. Detail oriented, strong problem solving abilities, effective communication, and ...

... operator support. Individual will be required to participate in process improvement initiatives ... Computer and machine programming for manufacturing automation * Dispositioning of discrepant ...

PCB Assembler 2

Mount Pleasant, PA ยท On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Operate equipment such as, aqueous cleaner and component location equipment. * Assist, as required, with the operation of wave solder or selective solder machines. * Wire and solder prototypes and ...

Operates and sets up wave solder, selective solder, washing machines and contamination tester under guidance of area supervisor and Manufacturing Engineer. * Performs basic assembly operations ...

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Wave Solder Machine Operator information

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How much do wave solder machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for wave solder 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 tasks I would perform as a Wave Solder Machine Operator?

As a Wave Solder Machine Operator, your primary responsibilities include setting up and operating the wave soldering equipment, monitoring solder quality, and inspecting printed circuit boards for defects before and after soldering. You will also be responsible for performing routine machine maintenance, adjusting machine settings according to work orders, and documenting production data. Collaborating with quality control teams and other production staff is a regular part of the job to ensure products meet company and industry standards. This position often requires standing for extended periods and working in a manufacturing team environment where accuracy and reliability are essential.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles like CNC machine operators or those operating complex automated systems tend to have higher salaries compared to standard machine operators like wave solder machine operators.

How much does soldering get paid?

Wave solder machine operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. Wages can also vary based on the complexity of the equipment and shift differentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Wave Solder Machine Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wave Solder Machine Operator, candidates need a solid understanding of electronics assembly, attention to detail, and experience with manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with wave soldering machines, inspection tools, and adherence to IPC-A-610 standards or similar certifications is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a keen ability to follow safety procedures help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring high-quality circuit board production, minimizing errors, and maintaining efficient workflow in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What is a Wave Solder Machine Operator job?

A Wave Solder Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining wave soldering machines used in PCB (printed circuit board) assembly. They ensure proper solder flow, monitor machine performance, and inspect boards for defects. The operator must adjust machine settings, load components, and follow safety protocols to maintain quality and efficiency. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of soldering processes.

What is a wave solder operator job description?

A wave solder operator is responsible for operating and maintaining wave soldering machines used in electronics manufacturing to apply solder to printed circuit boards. They set up equipment, monitor the soldering process, ensure quality standards, and troubleshoot issues to ensure proper solder joints and efficient production. Knowledge of soldering techniques, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications are important for this role.

Is wave soldering still used?

Wave soldering is still used in electronics manufacturing for through-hole components and some surface-mount applications. Wave solder machine operators need to understand the process, equipment setup, and quality control to ensure proper solder joints. Despite the rise of reflow soldering, wave soldering remains relevant for specific assembly needs.
More about Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Wave Solder Machine Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs? The most popular types of Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Wave Solder Machine Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wave Solder Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 67% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Manufacturing Associate - Wave Operator (Swing)

Manufacturing Associate - Wave Operator (Swing)

Vanguard EMS, Inc.

Beaverton, OR โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Wave Operator collaborates with the manufacturing team to create defect-free printed circuit board assemblies to schedule using Wave equipment and documented process specifications to meet customer and Company quality standards.
Vanguard EMS, Inc. is in the service business. Even with Vanguard's state of the art technology, vast manufacturing capability, and leading-edge information tools, we wake up every day thinking about how best to serve our customers, suppliers, and the communities in which we live.
Requirements
What you'll do:
  • Run PCBA's through Wave machines daily according to schedule.
  • Perform machine set-up and cleanup according to documented procedures.
  • Document and maintain quality records for wave solder.
  • Perform minor maintenance as required to operate the machine in an efficient manner.
  • Assist maintenance team on scheduled preventive maintenance activities.
  • Move product to and from wave process to keep processes moving and meet schedule commitments.
  • Maintain clean, orderly machine and surrounding area and perform other duties as required.

What you'll need:
  • Strong affinity for mechanical technology
  • Displays a high-level critical thinking, analysis , and attention to detail.
  • Demonstrates self-motivation, problem solving abilities, team spirit and a "hands on" mentality
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
  • Proactive approach in preventive maintenance.

Education and/or Experience
  • High School Diploma, GED or Equivalent
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Wash processes on PCBA's

While performing the duties of this job, the employee uses his/her hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, or crouch; talk or hear. The employee uses computer and telephone equipment. Specific vision requirements of this job include close vision and distance vision.
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described above are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
This Job Posting is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities associated with this position. Management reserves the right to modify and assign other duties as necessary
Benefits
Employees benefits package includes:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision
  • 401K (with employer match)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid holidays
  • Profit Sharing