SMT Test Engineer – Contract Manufacturing (EMS)
Role summary
The SMT Test Engineer will develop, implement, and support test processes for surface mount (SMT) printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) within a high-mix contract manufacturing environment. Key responsibilities include test strategy development, NPI support, production troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous process improvement to enhance test coverage, yield, and efficiency. This role requires a strong understanding of electronics, schematics, and PCBA testing methodologies, with a focus on ensuring product quality and customer satisfaction. The engineer will also manage test equipment, support data integration systems, and interface with customers regarding test results and improvements.
Position Summary
The SMT Test Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and supporting test processes for surface mount (SMT) printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) in a high-mix, contract manufacturing environment. This role ensures product quality, supports new product introduction (NPI), and drives continuous improvement in test coverage, yield, and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Test Development & Implementation
- Develop and deploy test strategies for PCBAs (ICT, flying probe, functional test, boundary scan, AOI/AXI support)
- Create test plans, procedures, and acceptance criteria based on customer requirements and specifications
- Design and debug test fixtures, interfaces, and hardware
NPI (New Product Introduction)
- Collaborate with engineering and customers during NPI to define test requirements and coverage
- Review schematics, BOMs, and Gerber files to ensure testability (DFT – Design for Test)
- Support prototype builds and validate test processes before production release
Production Support
- Troubleshoot test failures and perform root cause analysis (RCA)
- Work closely with SMT, quality, and manufacturing teams to resolve yield issues
- Provide ongoing support for test equipment and fixtures on the production floor
Process Improvement
- Analyze yield data and identify trends to improve first-pass yield (FPY)
- Implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
- Optimize test times and reduce cost of test (COT)
Equipment & Systems
- Maintain and program test platforms
- Ensure calibration and maintenance of test equipment
- Support MES/test data integration and traceability systems
Customer Interface
- Communicate test results, issues, and improvements to customers
- Support audits and customer visits related to test processes
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 2–5+ years in PCBA test engineering, preferably in EMS/contract manufacturing
- Experience with ICT, flying probe, and/or functional testing
- Strong understanding of electronics, schematics, and circuit debugging
- Familiarity with DFT principles
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with boundary scan (JTAG) and RF or high-speed testing
- Knowledge of programming languages
- Experience with test data analysis tools and MES systems
- Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
Key Skills
- Problem-solving and root cause analysis
- Data-driven decision making
- Cross-functional collaboration (manufacturing, quality, design)
- Ability to work in fast-paced, high-mix/low-volume or high-volume environments
Typical Work Environment
- Manufacturing floor + engineering lab
- Fast-paced EMS environment with multiple customer programs
- Hands-on with test equipment and production lines
KPIs / Success Metrics
- First-pass yield (FPY)
- Test coverage %
- Defect detection rate
- Test time / cost reduction
- NPI launch success (on-time, minimal escapes)
Pay: $72,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person