Machine Operator
Job Description
Job Title: Machine Operator (SMT Placement)
Location: San Diego, CA Pay Rate: $20.92 – $26.15 per hour Position Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This is NOT an entry-level position. We strictly require candidates to have prior, hands-on experience operating automated Surface Mount Technology (SMT) placement equipment, setting up component feeders, and applying IPC standards for printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. Candidates without direct SMT machine operation experience will not be considered.
We are seeking a detail-oriented, quality-driven Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team in San Diego. In this role, you will be responsible for machine operation, equipment setup, and component verification on surface mount technology (SMT) assembly lines. A core focus of this position is ensuring that all production output strictly adheres to IPC standards. This is a dynamic, multi-step production role offering great career stability and growth potential for a candidate dedicated to manufacturing excellence and industry compliance.
Key Responsibilities
IPC-Compliant Operation & Setup: Perform equipment setup, machine operations, material replenishment, and parts verification with rigorous adherence to IPC standards (such as IPC-A-610) and established best practices.
Quality Assurance: Continually inspect component identification, placement, and alignments to guarantee ongoing compliance with industry quality requirements.
Read Schematics: Read and interpret moderately complex assembly aids, written instructions, and technical blueprints to determine machining needs, setups, and layout specifications.
Problem Solving: Use deductive reasoning to troubleshoot technical problems or deal with novel production line circumstances; quickly identify deviations from IPC standards and solve moderately complex issues or escalate them to engineering/management.
Team Communication: Collaborate closely with team leads and peers to provide real-time status updates, report impending obstacles regarding quality or compliance, and recommend workflow solutions.
Project Execution: Execute individual project priorities, deadlines, and deliverables with minimal supervision, adapting quickly to production changes without compromising standard operating procedures.
Level of Responsibility & Scope
Works under some supervision while maintaining ownership over individual output, ensuring the assigned machinery line consistently meets required IPC criteria.
Tasks require a multi-step workflow requiring basic planning, time management, and task prioritization to minimize errors, rework, and compliance failures.
Requires clear verbal and written communication skills to pass routine factual information between shifts and management.
Qualifications & Experience Required
Experience: 1+ years of direct, hands-on work experience operating Surface Mount Technology (SMT) placement equipment. (No entry-level or non-SMT machine operators).
Technical Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of IPC standards and practices for component identification, placement, and parts verification. Active or prior IPC Certification is highly preferred.
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
Physical Requirements: Ability to safely push, pull, and lift up to 25 lbs.
Top Skills We Are Looking For
Direct experience running surface mount placement machinery or automated SMT/AOI lines to exact IPC specifications.
Fluency reading assembly prints, wiring diagrams, or mechanical layouts.
High attention to detail, a strong commitment to quality control, and a proactive attitude toward workplace safety.
ATR International is a staffing and workforce solutions firm providing high‐quality talent across a wide range of industries, including technology, operations, and professional services.
