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Wave Soldering Machine Operator Jobs in Renton, WA

Industrial Mechanic

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

Overhaul and test machines or equipment to ensure operating efficiency. * Repair, rewire, and ... Weld or solder broken parts and structural members using electric or gas welders and soldering ...

... techniques (soldering, lamination, machining) and has a good attention to organization and ... Operating custom calibration and assembly equipment * Writing documentation and reports relating to ...

Engineering Technician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

... operator control. Our intuitive OverWatch C2 interface provides commanders with precise ... machine shop tools and welding preferred. * Proficiency with electrical wiring, soldering and cable ...

Optical Technician

Redmond, WA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... techniques (soldering, lamination, machining) and has a good attention to organization and ... Operating custom calibration and assembly equipment. * Writing documentation and reports relating ...

Optical Technician

Redmond, WA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... techniques (soldering, lamination, machining) and has a good attention to organization and ... Operating custom calibration and assembly equipment. * Writing documentation and reports relating ...

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Wave Soldering Machine Operator information

See Renton, WA salary details

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for wave soldering machine operator in Renton, WA is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.
SMT/HASS Production Operator (Starlink)

SMT/HASS Production Operator (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$29.50 - $37/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SMT/HASS PRODUCTION OPERATOR (STARLINK)

At SpaceX, we're leveraging our experience in building rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink, the world's most advanced broadband internet system. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation and is providing fast, reliable internet to millions of users worldwide. We've only begun to scratch the surface of our potential global impact and are looking for best-in-class technicians to help maximize Starlink's utility for communities and businesses around the globe.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Operated PCB assembly machines to manufacture circuit boards, including SMT placement, reflow soldering, solder paste printing, conformal coating, masking, epoxy application, selective coating, optical inspection, and X-ray inspection.
  • Conducted thermal and functional testing of electronic hardware, encompassing setup, instrumentation, test execution, teardown, and troubleshooting.
  • Documented failure modes in detail and leveraged data analysis to enhance product quality and process improvements.
  • Maintained and calibrated production equipment through scheduled preventive maintenance to ensure operational reliability.
  • Managed schedule priorities and executed tasks independently to meet company deliverables and deadlines.
  • Performed component kitting and precise measurement to support assembly processes.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school degree or equivalency certificate.
  • 1+ years of hands-on work experience with electromechanical tools, assembly, or testing.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • 2+ years of experience in electro-mechanical assembly, integration, or mechanical assembly.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and work from layout drawings, mechanical drawings, assembly procedures, schematics, engineering drawings, and parts lists.
  • Proficient in using a PC, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office suite, ERP, and related programs.
  • Soldering proficiency including IPC and/or J-STD certification.
  • Experience setting up and running tests and experiments.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willing to work all shifts, overtime and weekend as needed. Estimated shift times:
    • 1st shift: 5:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • 2nd shift: 3:30 PM - 1:30 AM
  • Standing for long periods of time, climbing up and down ladders, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, and stretching may be required to perform the functions of this position
  • Able to lift up to 25lbs. unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay range:    

Starlink Production Technician/Level 1: $22.00 - $26.50/hour    
Starlink Production Technician/Level 2: $25.50 - $31.00/hour    
Starlink Production Technician/Level 3: $29.50 - $37.00/hour    

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.


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