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Wave Solder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LSI Industries, Inc.

Solderer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines, Potting Machines and Wire Processing equipment in addition to Soldering, Manual Assembly, Conformal ...

Mercury Systems

Solder Assembler

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

The Intermediate Solder Assembleris responsible forincorporatingrework/repairon boards using anAirVacmachine, hot plate, andmini wave solder pot. In this role, the assembler will have toreview ...

Bose Corporation

Solder Technician I

Binghamton, NY · On-site

$16 - $19.92/hr

Complete solder touch-up operations following wave soldering processes as required. * Install, replace, or remove electronic components in accordance with work instructions and engineering ...

mercury

Solder Assembler

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

The Intermediate Solder Assembleris responsible forincorporatingrework/repairon boards using anAirVacmachine, hot plate, andmini wave solder pot. In this role, the assembler will have toreview ...

Boseallaboutme

Solder Technician I

Binghamton, NY

$16 - $19.92/hr

Complete solder touch-up operations following wave soldering processes as required. * Install, replace, or remove electronic components in accordance with work instructions and engineering ...

Intervala, LLC

PCB Assembler 2

Mount Pleasant, PA · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Hand-solder THT components per specifications * Operate equipment such as, aqueous cleaner and component location equipment. * Assist, as required, with the operation of wave solder or selective ...

Kimchuk Inc

Flow Room Operator

Danbury, CT

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 ...

Acuity Brands, Inc.

SMT Engineer Sr

Crawfordsville, IN · On-site

Job Summary Lead and provide technical support for SMT, Wave Solder, and Conformal Coating processes, including equipment, programming, maintenance coordination, and process optimization. Responsible ...

Acuity Brands

SMT Engineer Sr

Crawfordsville, IN

Job Summary Lead and provide technical support for SMT, Wave Solder, and Conformal Coating processes, including equipment, programming, maintenance coordination, and process optimization. Responsible ...

Mercury Systems

Solder Assembler

Hudson, NH

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

The Intermediate Solder Assembler is responsible for incorporating rework/repair on boards using an AirVac machine, hot plate, and mini wave solder pot. In this role, the assembler will have to ...

Mercury Systems

Solder Assembler

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

The Intermediate Solder Assembler is responsible for incorporating rework/repair on boards using an AirVac machine, hot plate, and mini wave solder pot. In this role, the assembler will have to ...

Mercury Systems

Solder Assembler

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

The Intermediate Solder Assembler is responsible for incorporating rework/repair on boards using an AirVac machine, hot plate, and mini wave solder pot. In this role, the assembler will have to ...

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Wave Solder information

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$12

$19

$27

How much do wave solder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 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.

Can you make a career out of soldering?

Wave soldering is a specialized manufacturing process used in electronics assembly, and careers in soldering can be developed into roles such as solder technicians or process engineers. These positions often require technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols, with opportunities for advancement in manufacturing or electronics industries.

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.

How much do people who solder make?

Soldering technicians or operators typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled solderers with certifications or specialized tools may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or electronics assembly environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wave Solder, and why are they important?

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 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 quality control is essential for this role.

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 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.

Is wave soldering still used?

Wave soldering is still used in electronics manufacturing for through-hole components and some surface-mount applications, especially in high-volume production. However, it has been increasingly replaced by reflow soldering for surface-mount devices due to its precision and efficiency.
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 job categories do people searching Wave Solder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wave Solder jobs are:
Wave Solder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wave Solder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,675 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Manufacturing Associate - Wave Operator (Swing)

Manufacturing Associate - Wave Operator (Swing)

Vanguard EMS, Inc.

Beaverton, OR • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 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

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