Sanmina Corporation (Nasdaq: SANM) is a leading integrated manufacturing solutions provider serving the fastest-growing segments of the global Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) market. Recognized as a technology leader, Sanmina Corporation provides end-to-end manufacturing solutions, delivering superior quality and support to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) primarily in the communications networks, defense and aerospace, industrial and semiconductor systems, medical, multimedia, computing and storage, automotive and clean technology sectors. Sanmina Corporation has facilities strategically located in key regions throughout the world.
Job Purpose
The Soldering Process Engineer plays a key role in developing, optimizing, and maintaining manufacturing processes for various methods of soldering & PCBA repairs ranging from simple to complex. This position requires a strong understanding of soldering processes related to electronics manufacturing like wave soldering, selective soldering, hand soldering, BGA/PCB repairs and process validation, tooling design for the same. The ideal candidate will apply engineering principles and experience for managing the various soldering processes with a focus on specialized repairs in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Nature of Duties/ Responsibilities
- Develop and execute “First Time Build” process design and reporting for the various solder processes.
- Create and maintain wave solder programs, rework/repair profiles for BGAs, PCBs and latest component packages in use by the industry.
- Identify, conceptualize and procure manufacturing tooling and fixtures for the soldering processes.
- Develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and visual aids for soldering processes.
- Act as a trainer and certifier for personnel in the soldering and repair processes.
- Perform process validation and qualifications of each process.
- Create soldering profiles and techniques for rework/repairs of complex PCBAs.
- Manage suppliers, obtain quotes, and place purchase orders for fixtures and tooling applicable to the soldering processes.
- Experience with various BGA rework & repair equipment and techniques for PCBA complex repairs.
- Address and optimize processes for yield improvements.
- Select appropriate solder, fluxes and necessary chemicals/compounds for different soldering applications.
- Conduct root cause analysis and corrective actions where applicable and familiarity with techniques related to failure and reliability analysis of solder joints for electronics.
- Conversant with IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, IPC 7711, and IPC 7721 standards.
- Expert-level soldering skills for both through-hole and SMT components.
- Qualify and implement new processes and engineering changes.
- Provide technical guidance to production teams and support engineering initiatives related to solders, fluxes, and new equipment.
- Interface with customers to address drawing, data, and material issues.
- Ensure compliance with ESD protocols (ANSI ESD S20.20).
Education and Experience
- University degree in Science, Engineering, or equivalent experience.
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in soldering processes.
- Strong background in process control and assembly procedures.
- Hands-on experience with wave soldering, selective soldering, hand soldering and complex repairs for PCBAs.
- Proficiency in IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, IPC 7711, and IPC 7721.
- Knowledge of PCB pad design, ground plane issues, and component pad layout.
- Experience implementing engineering changes and optimizing mechanical assembly processes.
- Familiar with lean manufacturing principles, 5S, TQM, and DFM.
- Understanding of quality standards such as TL9000 and methodologies like FMEA, SPC Techniques.
- Experience with AutoCAD is a plus.
- This position is ideal for a detailed-oriented engineer with a passion for process improvement, problem-solving, and hands-on involvement in PCBA repair and manufacturing excellence.