NPI / Manufacturing Engineer

Summary

We are looking for a highly skilled SMT professional with strong electronics background to coordinate and manage programs related to AOI, SPI, Pick & Place (P&P), Reflow/Profile, X-ray inspection, and End-of-Line (EOL) rework activities. The role requires deep expertise in SMT processes, machine programming, defect analysis, and cross-functional coordination to ensure high-quality production output.

Key Responsibilities

Program Coordination

• Coordinate complete SMT program setup and validation including:
  • AOI (Automated Optical Inspection)
    
  • SPI (Solder Paste Inspection)
    
  • Pick & Place machines
    
  • Reflow oven profiling
    
  • X-ray inspection programs
    
• Ensure smooth program releases from NPI to mass production.
  
• Maintain version control and optimization of machine programs.
  

Process Engineering & Optimization

• Develop, validate, and optimize SMT process parameters.
  
• Perform solder paste, stencil, and component placement optimization.
  
• Define and monitor reflow profiles for different PCB assemblies.
  
• Troubleshoot process issues and improve first-pass yield (FPY).
  

Inspection & Quality Control

• Create and fine-tune AOI & SPI inspection criteria and libraries.
  
• Develop X-ray inspection standards for BGA/QFN and critical components.
  
• Analyze defects such as:
  • Solder bridges
    
  • Insufficient/excess solder
    
  • Component misalignment
    
  • Voids and hidden defects
    

EOL Rework Coordination

• Coordinate End-of-Line (EOL) rework activities.
  
• Analyze failure modes and root causes.
  
• Guide rework technicians for complex repairs (BGA, fine-pitch, etc.).
  
• Ensure rework quality meets IPC standards.
  

NPI & Documentation

• Support New Product Introduction (NPI) builds.
  
• Prepare and maintain:
  • Work instructions (WI)
    
  • SOPs
    
  • Process flow documents
    
• Conduct risk assessments and DFx (Design for Manufacturability).
  

Cross-functional Coordination

• Liaise with production, quality, maintenance, and design teams.
  
• Support customer requirements and audits.
  
• Ensure compliance with IPC, ISO, and customer quality standards.
  

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of SMT processes and electronics assembly.
  
• Hands-on experience with:
  • AOI, SPI, P&P programming
    
  • Reflow profiling tools
    
  • X-ray inspection systems
    
• Expertise in defect analysis and root cause methodologies (8D, Fishbone, etc.).
  
• Good understanding of PCB design and electronic components.
  
• Familiarity with IPC standards (IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/7721).
  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  

Educational Qualification

• Bachelor’s / Diploma in:
  • Electronics Engineering
    
  • Electrical Engineering
    
  • Instrumentation or related field
    

Experience

• Minimum 5–10 years of experience in SMT/EMS industry.
  
• Proven experience in program coordination and process engineering.
  

Preferred Skills

• Experience in high-mix, high-volume production environments.
  
• Knowledge of MES systems and Industry 4.0 tools.
  
• Six Sigma / Lean Manufacturing exposure is an advantage.
  

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• First Pass Yield (FPY)
  
• Defect per Million Opportunities (DPMO)
  
• Reduction in rework/rejection rates
  
• Program stability and downtime reduction