Our client, a leading Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) company, is seeking an experienced Senior SMT Process Engineer to support process optimisation, quality improvement, automation, and technical support across SMT and electronic assembly operations, based in Pinetown, KZN and reporting to the Operations Director. If you don't have experience with EMS you will not qualify, even coming from a Process or Industrial Engineering background. 

Minimum Requirements

• BSc / BEng / BTech / National Diploma in Electronics, Industrial, Mechatronics, or Mechanical Engineering.
• 5-7 years' experience in electronics manufacturing / EMS environments.
• Strong SMT assembly, wave soldering, reflow, and selective soldering experience.
• Experience with AOI programming, X-ray inspection, and electronic defect analysis.
• Knowledge of DFM, DFA, PFMEA, Lean Six Sigma, 5S, and root cause analysis.
• Experience with ERP/MES systems and SMT line programming.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven experience driving continuous improvement, automation, and cost reduction projects.
• Project management experience within NPI and manufacturing improvement initiatives.
• 1-2 years' supervisory or team leadership experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimise SMT, wave soldering, reflow, and selective soldering processes to improve quality, throughput, and reliability.
• Develop and maintain thermal profiles in line with IPC standards and component specifications.
  Conduct defect analysis, PFMEA, root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve first-pass yield.
• Manage AOI programming, X-ray inspection, and validation of BGA/LGA and hidden solder joints.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma, 5S, line balancing, and automation principles.
• Support NPI activities, pilot builds, prototype validation, and customer return investigations.
• Create and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and process documentation.
• Train operators and technicians on process improvements and best practices.
• Support equipment validation, preventative maintenance, and factory maintenance activities.
• Ensure compliance with IPC-A-610, ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and customer requirements.
• Lead and mentor junior Process and Maintenance Technicians.