Quality Assurance Engineer

Job Summary:
The Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer for SMT is responsible for ensuring the highest quality standards are met throughout the Surface Mount Technology (SMT) assembly process in an Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) environment. This role involves developing, implementing, and maintaining quality control procedures,conducting inspections, analyzing data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify root causes of defects and drive continuous improvement in SMT production.Key Responsibilities:1. Quality System Development & Implementation: Develop, implement, and maintain quality control plans, procedures, and work instructions specifically for SMT processes (e.g., solder paste printing, component placement, reflow soldering, AOI, SPI). Ensure adherence to industry standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, IPC- 7711/7721), customer specifications, and internal quality policies. Establish and monitor key quality metrics (e.g., First Pass Yield, Defect Per Million Opportunities - DPMO, Cost of Poor Quality related to SMT).2. Process Monitoring & Control: Conduct regular audits and inspections of SMT production lines, processes, and equipment to ensure compliance with quality standards and procedures. Monitor and analyze SMT process parameters (e.g., reflow profiles, paste volume, placement accuracy) to ensure optimal quality output. Utilize and interpret data from Automated Optical Inspection (AOI), Solder Paste Inspection (SPI), and X-ray inspection systems to identify trends and potential issues. Implement statistical process control (SPC) techniques for critical SMT parameters.3. Defect Analysis & Root Cause Investigation: Lead or participate in the investigation of SMT-related defects, failures, and customer returns. Conduct root cause analysis using methodologies such as 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, 8D reports, etc. Work closely with SMT Production, Process Engineering, and Design teams to implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA). Verify the effectiveness of implemented CAPAs & ECN’s.4. Inspection & Testing: Oversee and optimize in-process and final inspection criteria for SMT assemblies. Develop and maintain inspection checklists and visual aids for SMT operators and inspectors. Train production personnel on quality standards, inspection techniques, and defect identification.5. Supplier Quality (SMT-related): Collaborate with the supplier quality team to assess and ensure the quality of incoming SMT components and materials. Address and resolve quality issues related to components used in SMT.6. Documentation & Reporting: Maintain comprehensive quality records, including inspection reports, audit findings, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and CAPA documentation. Prepare and present quality reports to management, highlighting SMT performance, trends, and improvement initiatives. Contribute to the creation and revision of manufacturing work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) from a quality perspective.7. Continuous Improvement: Drive continuous improvement activities on the SMT line to enhance yield, reduce scrap, and improve overall product quality. Participating in New Product Introduction (NPI) phases to ensure "Design for Quality" and "Design for Manufacturability" principles are incorporated into SMT processes. Stay updated with the latest SMT technologies, quality trends, and industry’s best practices.RequirementsQualifications: Education: Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering, ElectricalEngineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.Technical Skills: In-depth knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards (Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies) is mandatory; IPC certification (e.g., IPC-A-610 CIS or CSE) is highly preferred. Strong understanding of SMT defects, their causes, and corrective actions. Proficiency in quality tools and methodologies (e.g., SPC, FMEA, 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone, Control Plans). Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and BOMs. Experience with quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001). Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel for data analysis, PowerPoint for presentations).