1

Wave Soldering Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

decco is hiring Wave Solder Operators to work with our client located in Windsor, CT. These are ... Identification of good and bad soldering joints. * Perform machine maintenance. Education and ...

decco is hiring Wave Solder Operators to work with our client located in Windsor, CT. These are ... Identification of good and bad soldering joints. * Perform machine maintenance. Education and ...

Performs wave solder and final assembly of printed circuit boards. Must have a thorough ... Perform machine maintenance. Education and Experience: * High school diploma or equivalent ...

Performs wave solder and final assembly of printed circuit boards. Must have a thorough ... Perform machine maintenance. Education and Experience: * High school diploma or equivalent ...

Machine Operator

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines ... Learns and practices standard operating procedures * Maintains prompt and regular attendance based ...

Machine Operator

Alpharetta, GA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines ... Learns and practices standard operating procedures * Maintains prompt and regular attendance based ...

Machine Operator

Alpharetta, GA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines ... Learns and practices standard operating procedures * Maintains prompt and regular attendance based ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Wave Soldering Machine Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$23

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

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for wave soldering 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 is a wave solder operator job description?

A wave soldering machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining wave solder machines used in electronics manufacturing. They ensure proper soldering of printed circuit boards by monitoring machine parameters, inspecting solder joints, and adhering to safety and quality standards. This role often requires technical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of soldering processes and equipment.

What are wave soldering machine operators?

Wave soldering machine operators are skilled technicians who set up, operate, and maintain wave soldering machines used in the assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs). These machines apply molten solder to electronic components and connections, ensuring that all parts are securely attached to the board. Operators monitor the soldering process, adjust machine settings for optimal performance, and inspect finished products for quality. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep production running smoothly.

What is the difference between Wave Soldering Machine Operator vs Soldering Technician?

AspectWave Soldering Machine OperatorSoldering Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or electronics assembly facilitiesElectronics manufacturing, repair shops, or assembly lines
Job FocusOperating and maintaining wave soldering machinesPerforming soldering tasks, repairs, and quality checks

Wave Soldering Machine Operators primarily focus on operating and maintaining wave soldering equipment in manufacturing settings, while Soldering Technicians perform manual soldering, repairs, and quality inspections. Both roles require technical skills and work in electronics or manufacturing environments, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

Is wave soldering still used?

Wave soldering is still used in electronics manufacturing for through-hole component assembly and some surface-mount applications. As a Wave Soldering Machine Operator, understanding the process and safety protocols remains important, although many manufacturers are shifting toward reflow soldering for surface-mount components. The technique continues to be relevant in specific production contexts.

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

To thrive as a Wave Soldering Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of electronics manufacturing, soldering processes, and quality control, often gained through vocational training or relevant experience. Familiarity with wave soldering machines, inspection tools, and adherence to IPC standards or certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure the efficient production of reliable electronic assemblies while minimizing defects and maintaining safety standards.

Who is a machine operator's salary?

The average salary for a wave soldering machine operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and familiarity with soldering equipment may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing environments with shift work or overtime opportunities.

What are some common challenges faced by Wave Soldering Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Wave Soldering Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent solder quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring proper setup for different PCB assemblies. Addressing these issues typically involves regular machine maintenance, careful monitoring of solder temperatures and conveyor speeds, and following strict quality control protocols. Collaborating closely with quality assurance teams and line supervisors can also help operators quickly resolve process issues and minimize production downtime.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs typically include roles such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators and specialized manufacturing machine operators, which often require advanced skills and certifications. These positions can offer higher wages due to the technical expertise and precision required, especially in industries like aerospace, automotive, and electronics manufacturing.
More about Wave Soldering Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Wave Soldering Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Wave Soldering Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Wave Soldering Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Wave Soldering Machine Operator jobs include:
Wave Machine Operator - Components 2nd Shift

Wave Machine Operator - Components 2nd Shift

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Appleton, WI

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Illinois Tool Works rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Candidate will be responsible for all aspects of machine operation and must be a self-starter and team player.
This person must be able to set up and operate the wave solder machine, flux unit and water wash unit. Their duties also include maintaining quality of soldered PC boards, inspection of product and recognizing defects based on IPC-A-610 class 2 standards. They will hand solder, touch up, and make minor repairs to PC boards. They will perform all regular cleaning of the equipment. They will clip leads on soldered boards and train clippers. Wave Solder Operators will cross train and work in other areas as required by workload. Start and end times may vary depending on workload and overtime may be required.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • 6 months of experience in PCB assembly or equivalent required
  • Read English sufficient to understand schematics and assembly instructions
  • Read English sufficient to understand basic computer use instructions, company policies, safety directives and other work instructions
  • Ability to communicate in English to understand and give verbal work instructions to coworkers who only speak English
  • Handwrite work related notes in English
  • Add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers
  • Decimals / fractions used with use of calculator
  • Basic computer skills
  • Using MS Outlook, create and send emails
  • Enter production numbers into an Excel spreadsheet
  • Ability to solder to IPC-A-610 class 2 standards
  • Ability to work flexible schedules and 50 hours per week Monday through Saturday
  • Read and understand bill of material, process routings, layout drawings, and circuit and wiring diagrams
  • Ensure IPC-A-610 Class 2 standards are met
  • Use computers, small hand and torque tools, scales, calculators, and rulers

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience operating a wave solder machine
  • Mechanics and electronics experience
  • Machine operator experience

Essential Functions:
  • Perform set-up, operation, and cleaning of all related equipment
  • Maintain the quality of soldered PC boards, inspection of product and recognize defects based on IPC-A-610 Class 2 standards.
  • Hand clip leads on soldered boards as needed.
  • Physical Demands:
    • Constant use of fine finger dexterity, neck flexion, and reaching
    • Frequently required to use both hands to hold circuit boards, bins, tools, and components
    • Frequently lift, push, or pull 11-25lbs and occasionally lift, push, or pull 26-50lbs
    • Occasional bending at knees and waist
    • Close vision, midrange vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and balance are requirements of this position
    • Ability to visually differentiate colors
    • Constantly Sitting/Standing/Alternating

What Illinois Tool Works employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Illinois Tool Works logo

About Illinois Tool Works

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ITW is a global industrial company built around a differentiated and proprietary business model. The company’s seven industry-leading segments leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns in markets where highly innovative, customer-focused solutions are required. From state-of-the-art dishwashers, ovens and refrigerators in restaurants and hotels, to automobile components inside vehicles all over the world ... the products we manufacture and the solutions we design are all around us. The buildings where we live and work are built with ITW construction and welding products, and our ITW test & measurement solutions help to ensure the quality and safety of millions of products. ITW’s dedicated colleagues around the world thrive in the company’s decentralized and entrepreneurial culture. Our leaders have deep expertise in the ITW Business Model and leverage it to deliver superior performance and value to our customers.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glenview, IL, US

Year founded

1912