Production Associate

at Aerotek in Meridian, Idaho, United States

Job Description

Job Title: Production Associate

Job Description

This role offers a long-term career opportunity in a clean, modern electronics manufacturing environment, where you operate and maintain highly automated machinery used to produce printed circuit boards (PCBs). You use your mechanical aptitude, ability to read SOPs and blueprints, and attention to detail to build high-quality electronic assemblies to industry standards, while supporting continuous improvement and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

+ Operate automated electronics assembly equipment, including selective solder machines, wave solder machines, solder fountain machines, PCB depaneling machines, and other manufacturing equipment used to build a wide variety of electronic devices and printed circuit board assemblies to IPC Class 2, Class 3, and J-Standard specifications.

+ Set up, load, and perform necessary adjustments and routine maintenance on automated electronics assembly equipment, ensuring optimal performance and product quality.

+ Train other team members in the safe and effective operation, setup, loading, adjustment, and maintenance of automated electronics assembly equipment for various products.

+ Perform thorough inspection and verification of component placement prior to running assemblies through automated equipment, ensuring accuracy and compliance with specifications.

+ Read, understand, and strictly follow all assembly documentation each time an assembly is built, and train others to do the same.

+ Ensure production lines run in strict accordance with the correct revision of assembly documentation and area work instructions.

+ Know, understand, and adhere to all area work instructions and assembly documentation, and train others to follow these standards consistently.

+ Identify opportunities to improve processes and submit recommendations to support continuous improvement in quality, efficiency, and safety.

+ Complete and maintain all required training and certifications, including IPC-A-610 and J-STD-001, and keep credentials current.

+ Work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with colleagues to meet production goals and quality standards.

+ Communicate effectively and professionally with fellow employees on the production line and in other production areas, as well as with Shift Supervisors, Manufacturing leadership, and other departments to provide information and feedback on build quality and production issues.

+ Maintain a clean and organized production area in accordance with 5S standards, including proper storage and handling of tools, materials, and documentation.

+ Strictly comply with company core values and motto, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and respect in all interactions.

+ Assist in other production areas as needed and proactively inform management when work is limited or issues arise that affect workflow.

+ Arrive to work on time, follow established schedules, and support production requirements, including overtime and alternative shifts when needed.

+ Perform general production, assembly, packaging, inspection, and hand tool tasks related to electronics and printed circuit board manufacturing, using good hand dexterity and fine motor skills.

+ Apply a basic understanding of wiring and harness components and equipment terminologies, such as stripping, tinning, crimping, lacing, splicing, and component identification, to support assembly and production activities.

Essential Skills

+ High school diploma or equivalent GED.

+ Minimum of an Associate Degree or at least 3 months of working experience in the electronics manufacturing industry in skilled manufacturing assembly operator roles or related positions to be considered for direct hire.

+ Ability to meet or exceed all key job responsibilities, compliance requirements, and non-conformance handling duties outlined in the job description.

+ Understanding of electronic components, PCBs, and equipment terminology, including polarity, SMT, ESD, component identification, component types, SPI, and AOI.

+ Ability to read and interpret SOPs, blueprints, and assembly documentation accurately.

+ Efficient computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.

+ Effective written and verbal communication skills for clear interaction with team members and other departments.

+ Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple activities concurrently in an environment with frequent interruptions.

+ Self-motivation and the ability to work productively both independently and as part of a team.

+ Ability to work any required shift, including weekend or night shifts and overtime as needed.

+ Good mechanical aptitude and hand dexterity for operating machinery and performing detailed assembly and inspection tasks.

+ Basic understanding of production, assembly, packaging, inspection, and general electronics manufacturing processes.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Minimum of 4+ years of recent experience as an electronics assembly machine operator, including operation of automated equipment such as selective solder machines, wave solder machines, solder fountain machines, PCB depaneling machines, and other manufacturing equipment to achieve IPC Class 2, Class 3, and J-Standard specifications.

+ IPC-A-610 (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies).

+ IPC-A-600 (Acceptability of Printed Boards) is preferred.

+ Working knowledge of J-STD-001 (Requirements for Soldered Electrical and Electronic Assemblies).

+ Working knowledge of IPC-7711/7721 (Rework, Modification, and Repair of Electronic Assemblies).

+ Experience with wiring and harness components and processes such as stripping, tinning, crimping, lacing, splicing, and component identification.

+ Experience in electronics production, assembly, and handling of printed circuit boards.

+ Comfort using hand tools and performing detailed inspection work.

+ Demonstrated ability to follow 5S principles and contribute to a clean, organized workspace.

+ Prior experience with SOP-driven environments and adherence to documented processes.

+ Previous soldering experience in an electronics manufacturing setting.

Why Work Here?

You join a culture-driven organization that values teamwork, quality, and continuous learning in a clean, modern manufacturing environment. Employees enjoy clear opportunities for growth, with pathways to become leads, trainers, supervisors, and beyond. As you gain additional certifications and cross-train in new areas, you receive pay increases that recognize your expanding skills and contributions. Long-tenured employees reflect a stable, supportive workplace where you can build a lasting career.

Work Environment

You work in a clean electronics manufacturing facility with dedicated workstations where you complete your portion of electronic and PCB assemblies. The production floor follows strict 5S standards, emphasizing organization, cleanliness, and safety. While on the production floor, you wear a smock and shoe straps as part of the standard attire to support ESD control and product protection. The typical schedule runs Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the potential for overtime and alternative shifts as needed. You use automated assembly equipment, hand tools, computers with MS Office software, and industry-standard documentation and inspection tools in a structured, process-driven environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Meridian, ID.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 – $18.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may d