Job Description

Anchor Audio is the industry leader in portable sound systems and portable public address (PA) systems. Based in Carlsbad, California, we pride ourselves on manufacturing the highest quality products which are available worldwide. Anchor Audio portable sound systems are proudly manufactured in the United States of America.

The PC & SMT Associate is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining SMT production equipment used in the assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs). This includes Universal SMT machines, solder paste printing machines, reflow ovens, and wave soldering machines. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in electronics assembly and a strong understanding of SMT processes. This position offers various training programs, mentorship/coaching opportunities, and challenging projects that will help you enhance your professional skills. The organization is committed to fostering an environment where employees can thrive and advance in their careers, making it an ideal place for those looking to take the next step in their professional journey.

Location: Carlsbad California

Job Title: PC SMT Associate

Classification: Full time, non-exempt

Reports to: Sr. Production Manager

Salary Range : Up to $58,500/annually

Work Schedule : Onsite (no hybrid work consideration)

Essential Duties:

• Set up, program, and operate Universal SMT machines (e.g., Genesis, Advantis, Fuzion) for both new and existing PCB assemblies. Working from standard operating procedures, engineering drawings, schematics and/or verbal instruction.
• Operate and maintain solder paste printing machines, ensuring accurate stencil alignment and paste application.
• Operate reflow ovens, setting thermal profiles according to board and component requirements.
• Operate wave soldering machines for through-hole assembly processes.
• Load feeders, configure nozzles, and verify component placements according to BOM and layout files.
• Create and optimize placement programs using Universal software (Uflex, Dimensions, Line Manager).
• Perform first article inspections and monitor quality throughout production runs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve set-up or machine issues in coordination with the production manager and engineering.
• Document and report increased trends in failures to direct manager and engineering, while initiating root-cause investigations.
• Conduct preventive maintenance and calibrations on SMT-related equipment.
• Maintain clear and accurate setup sheets, logs, and production documentation.
• Operate equipment and instruments safely and according to proper procedures, exercising the necessary precautions to prevent damage to test equipment and instrumentation.
• Ensure compliance with ESD protocols and IPC-A-610 standards.
• Assist Production Manager with special projects as requested.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other production business units to support company goals as requested.
• Keep work area clean and organized.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Education & Experience:

We have identified the following programs, experience, and knowledge which have helped others find success in this role at Anchor Audio. We understand though that knowledge comes from many forms of learning and experiences. Above all, we consider a person’s potential impact in the role and value their unique path to this point in their career.

Knowledge and Skills/Required:

• Support Anchor Audio’s C.A.R.E.S Core Values and our commitment to serving our customer, team members, product, and community (our CARES values will be discussed at your welcome/orientation meeting and highlighted throughout your employment)
• Minimum of 5 years of related experience.
• Electronic Technician Certificate and/or AS Degree in Electronic Engineering.
• Strong experience operating and programming Universal SMT machines.
• Proven experience working with solder paste printers, reflow ovens, and wave soldering machines.
• Solid background in production testing, debugging, and troubleshooting, quality inspection processes and SMT manufacturing best practices.
• Experience reading and interpreting PCB layouts, BOMs, and assembly drawings.
• Experience working with standard test equipment such as oscilloscopes, RMS meters, high power conversion equipment, etc.
• Ability to build products within a standardized time (build times are tracked daily)
• Proficiency in MS Word and Excel.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and multitasking skills.
• Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds.
• Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions/temperatures.
• Ability to stand, kneel, twist, reach and freely move from one position/department to another.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English at a level that is sufficient to perform the essential functions of this position, to ensure safety, and efficient operation of business.
• Positive attitude – we are a small team, and a positive attitude is a must!
• Ability to receive constructive feedback with professionalism, including but not limited to constructive criticism and opportunity for improvement.
• Full-time, in-office attendance required – no remote work option.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Successful completion and satisfactory results of background check, drug screen, and completion of new hire forms.

Knowledge and Skills/Preferred:

• Sage 100 proficiency.
• Universal SMT Certification.
• Experience with AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) and SPI (Solder Paste Inspection).
• Manual soldering experience (SMT and through-hole).
• Working knowledge of IPC and ESD standards.

Compensation & Benefits:

· Salary, DOE

· Bonus opportunities

· 401(k)

· Discretionary Profit-Sharing Plan

· Generous Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance policies

· 97% employer paid MediExcel (healthcare) for qualifying employees

· Pet Protection Program

· Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

· Wellness Reimbursement Program

· Vacation – 10 days’ vacation the first year, increases with seniority

· Sick Leave, Paid Holidays

· Floating Holiday to celebrate personal cultural or religious observances

· Company Lunches/Events

· Work/life balance

Notice to Third Party Agencies:

Anchor Audio does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to Anchor Audio in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where Anchor Audio has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of Anchor Audio and Anchor Audio will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation – no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

Pay Transparency Statement:

Our compensation philosophy reflects the Company’s reasonable expectations at the time of posting. We consider several factors when making individual compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill set, experience, location, and other business needs.

EOE Statement:

Anchor Audio is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Our employment decisions are based on individual qualifications, job requirements and business needs without regard to race, color, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, religion, disability, citizenship status, national origin, pregnancy, veteran status and/or any other legally protected characteristics. 

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