Wave Soldering Machine Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Manufacturing Process Ownership

• Own and sustain defined manufacturing processes to ensure consistent execution across shifts and product lines
• Establish, document, and maintain standard work, process flows, and operating parameters for SMT processes including solder paste printing, reflow, wave/selective soldering, and inspection
• Ensure processes are clearly defined, understood, and followed by production teams
• Regularly observe process execution on the production floor and address gaps in adherence or understanding
• Maintain a consistent presence on the SMT production line to observe real-time process execution, support operators, and immediately address process variation or non-conformance

Process Control & Stability

• Develop and maintain process control plans and reaction plans for critical manufacturing processes
• Define key process parameters (KPPs) and critical-to-quality (CTQ) characteristics across SMT operations — including solder paste volume, reflow profile parameters, and placement accuracy
• Use SPC and other monitoring methods to confirm process stability and capability
• Lead response and corrective action when processes deviate from defined expectations

SPC & Data-Driven Enforcement

• Implement and sustain SPC methodologies to support process control and early detection of variation
• Select appropriate control chart types and sampling approaches
• Analyze SPC data to identify trends, special cause variation, and opportunities for improvement
• Ensure SPC results drive timely action, not just reporting

Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving

• Lead and support root cause analysis related to process variation, defects, and escapes
• Drive process improvements focused on variation reduction, yield improvement, and defect prevention
• Support process validation, qualification, and change implementation
• Validate improvements through defined process metrics and data analysis

Cross-Functional & Floor Engagement

• Operate primarily from the SMT production floor, partnering directly with operators, technicians, and supervisors rather than working from a traditional engineering office environment
• Provide hands-on coaching and training to operators and technicians on process discipline and control
• Support NPI, process transfers, and production ramp-ups by establishing stable, repeatable processes
• Communicate process risks, gaps, and improvement opportunities clearly to stakeholders

Quality & Compliance Support

• Ensure manufacturing processes and controls align with ISO, AS, IPC, and customer requirements
• Support audits, CAPA activities, and customer issues related to process performance
• Maintain accurate and controlled process documentation

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Statistics, or a related technical field
• 4–6 years of experience in SPC, process control, quality engineering, or manufacturing engineering
• Experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in electronics manufacturing or SMT production environments strongly preferred
• Hands-on experience with SMT processes, including solder paste printing, reflow, wave/selective soldering, or AOI/SPI
• Familiarity with SMT capital equipment such as screen printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, or AOI/SPI systems
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments (ISO 9001, AS9100, IPC standards)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of statistical process control and process capability analysis
• Experience with SPC methodologies, control charts, and reaction planning
• Proficiency with statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, Excel)
• Working knowledge of PFMEA, control plans, and process validation
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and influence cross-functional teams

• Regular standing, walking, and sitting in a manufacturing environment
• Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds
• Frequent use of computer and analytical tools

• SMT and electronics manufacturing production floor environment
• Primary work location is on the production floor and SMT line, not in an engineering office area
• Regular interaction with SMT capital equipment including screen printers, pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and AOI/SPI systems
• Moderate noise levels typical of a production environment
• Daily, continuous on-site presence required to support operations and real-time process control

ITAR Compliance Requirement
This position is located within an ITAR-regulated facility. Due to the nature of the work and access to controlled information, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, asylees, or refugees).