Hand Solder Technician III

Senior Hand Soldering TechnicianSenior-level technician and subject matter expert who leads hand soldering operations, drives quality and process improvements, and serves as the go-to technical resource for the most demanding builds. Acts as a working lead on the production floor, supports engineering during new product introduction, and plays a key role in maintaining IPC certification standards across the team.
Both shifts are available for this position. Let us know your preferred shift when you apply.
First Shift 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM Second Shift 2:00 PM – 10:30 PMResponsibilitiesLead and execute the most complex hand soldering and rework operations, including high-reliability aerospace and defense assemblies requiring IPC J-STD-001 Class 3 with space addendum workmanshipServe as the subject matter expert on IPC J-STD-001 soldering standards and IPC-A-610 inspection criteria across all product classesPerform and oversee advanced rework including BGA reballing, micro-soldering, pad repair, and conformal coating removal and reapplicationCollaborate with engineering on new product introduction, design for manufacturability reviews, and first article productionDevelop and refine work instructions, soldering procedures, and visual aids for hand solder operationsLead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for soldering-related defects and non-conformancesServe as a working lead, coordinating daily work assignments and priorities on the production floorTrain, mentor, and evaluate technicians at all levels; support IPC certification preparation and skills advancementOversee wave solder setup, profiling, and optimization; troubleshoot solder defects and process deviationsDrive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction using 6S and other lean methodologiesSupport internal and customer audits by demonstrating process compliance and workmanship standardsInterface with quality engineering on inspection criteria, acceptance standards, and process validationMaintain expert-level proficiency across all hand soldering tools, rework equipment, and inspection systemsRequirementsMinimum 5 years of progressive experience in electronics hand soldering, rework, and assemblyExpert knowledge of IPC J-STD-001 standards with demonstrated Class 3 build experienceIPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification requiredIPC-A-610 Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) certification requiredProven ability to lead teams, coordinate production activities, and mentor technicians at all levelsStrong problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and corrective actionAbility to read and interpret complex schematics, assembly drawings, and engineering specifications independentlyExcellent communication skills with the ability to interface with engineering, quality, and managementExperience working in an AS9100D-certified or equivalent quality management system environmentPreferred QualificationsIPC J-STD-001 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certificationIPC-A-610 Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) certificationIPC 7711/7721 Rework, Modification, and Repair certificationExperience with ITAR-controlled programs and defense manufacturing requirementsExperience with conformal coating application and removalFamiliarity with ERP/MRP systems and production planning toolsDemonstrated experience leading continuous improvement or lean manufacturing initiativesLocation: Houston, TXEmployment: Full-timeShifts: 1st & 2nd