1

Wave Soldering Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solderer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Our production work ranges from running Surface Mount Technology Lines, Wave Solder Machines ... Learn and practice standard operating procedures. * Maintain prompt and regular attendance based on ...

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Windsor, CT · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Epic Personnel Partners is hiring a Machine Operator to join a well-established manufacturing ... Prior experience in manufacturing, assembly, or related work , including soldering and assembly ...

Machine Operator II

Winona, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

... solder machine, wave machine, leaded insertion machine) • Ability to work with and train diverse groups • Accepting of opportunities to train on new equipment and to cross-train into other site ...

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Uxbridge, MA · On-site

$22.75 - $24.75/hr

Machine Operator (2nd Shift) Position Location: Uxbridge, MA Position Type/Schedule: On-site ... Set up, adjust, and operate conformal coat, solder wave, SMT, or related equipment per work ...

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 Jul 11, 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Wave Soldering Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
SMT Machine Operator I (2nd Shift)

SMT Machine Operator I (2nd Shift)

SparkFun Electronics

Niwot, CO • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Second Shift: M - F 4 pm - 12 am About SparkFun

Since 2003, SparkFun has been helping turn ideas into reality – whether you’re creating a smart weather station, exploring the frontier of machine learning, building a robot for school or prototyping your first (or tenth) product. No matter your vision or skill level, our open source components, resources and online tutorials are designed to broaden access to innovative technology and make the road to a finished project shorter.

We are an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. SparkFun offers an abundance of opportunities to learn new skills from other Funions, in addition to many other benefits and perks.

About SparkFun's Next SMT Machine Operator I

The SMT Machine Operator I is responsible for running a variety of pieces of machinery including stencil printers, pick and place machines, reflow ovens, selective solder machines, board washers, and automated optical inspection(AOI) machines. This is the start of the overall board assembly process, and is an integral one in setting the pace for the rest of the assembly process.

Working closely with all other members of The Board Assembly Team, the SMT Machine Operator will ensure that SparkFun built products are available for sale at all times, and replenished as quickly as possible when they run out.

The SMT Machine Operator I is expected to perform all necessary duties and responsibilities required to ensure a steady flow of products off of the automated assembly line in a timely matter. The SMT Machine Operator is expected to work with general supervision, getting assistance from other operators/managers when needed. Must be able to assist others when needed, especially an operator-in-training. Must demonstrate excellence in communication and problem solving in a team environment. Prior PCB assembly equipment operations experience is not required. We will train the candidate that is best fit for the position.

Essential Job Functions:
  • Running a complete build including setup, building, and tear down processes.
  • Stenciling accurately and efficiently at a high level of complexity.
  • Pick and Place Machine, Stencil Printer, Automated Optical Inspection, Reflow Oven & Selective Soldering Operation
  • Taking initiative to get the equipment operations area up and running if first to arrive.
  • Coordinating with other Machine Operators in order to streamline the entire PCB assembly process
  • Soldering of PTH(plated through hole) components on initial article to allow for testing.
  • Complete inspection and testing of each initial article before continuing with full production run.
  • Accurately estimate and record build times utilizing SparkFun production tools (software).
  • Perform general maintenance on equipment when applicable.

Requirements

Skills Required:
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time (4-7 hours per day)
  • Experience with SMD(surface mount device) & PTH(plated through hole) soldering
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Consistent work habits, including reliability, punctuality, honesty, & self-motivation
  • Experience with Google's suite of products (i.e. GMail, Sheets, Docs, etc)
  • Must be able to work effectively in a collaborative, team environment

Benefits

SparkFun Benefits & Perks

At SparkFun, we ask a lot of our employees, and that’s why we give so much in return. Here are just some of the benefits:

  • Competitive salary ($20/hour)
  • Medical/dental/vision plan
  • Matching 401(k),
  • A casual dress code for you
  • Dogs - yes, we bring dogs to work
  • Full gym with climbing wall. If that’s not your style we offer a monthly gym stipend or onsite yoga
  • We have a great employee discount and opportunities to create and share content with the SparkFun community
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid time to volunteer
  • EcoPass (public transportation pass)
  • Paid time off + Sick Time
  • Summer BBQs, work parties, and more!