AOI Operator

The Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining AOI equipment used in the manufacturing and inspection of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). This position ensures that all products meet customer specifications, industry standards, and company quality requirements by identifying, verifying, and documenting defects throughout the manufacturing process.

The AOI Operator plays a critical role in maintaining product quality, minimizing defects, reducing scrap, and supporting efficient production operations while adhering to established safety, quality, and manufacturing procedures.

• Set up, operate, and monitor Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) equipment to inspect printed circuit boards for manufacturing defects.
• Perform AOI inspections according to customer specifications, engineering drawings, work instructions, and established quality standards.
• Identify and verify defects, including opens, shorts, missing or incorrect features, trace defects, spacing violations, and other PCB manufacturing irregularities.
• Review AOI inspection results and distinguish actual defects from false calls to ensure accurate defect identification.
• Perform visual inspections using microscopes, magnification equipment, and other inspection tools as necessary.
• Load and unload printed circuit boards into AOI equipment while ensuring proper handling to prevent damage.
• Verify correct job setup, inspection programs, product identification, and inspection parameters before beginning production.
• Make authorized adjustments to AOI inspection settings and programs to improve inspection accuracy and minimize false calls.
• Communicate identified defects, quality concerns, and equipment issues to the Production Supervisor, Quality Department, or appropriate management representative.
• Accurately document inspection results, defects, production quantities, and other required information in company tracking systems and production records.
• Segregate and properly identify nonconforming products in accordance with company procedures.
• Coordinate with production personnel and Quality Control to ensure defective products are properly evaluated and dispositioned.
• Follow established procedures for handling, storing, and transporting printed circuit boards to prevent damage or contamination.
• Maintain accurate records of inspected boards, accepted products, rejected products, and rework requirements.
• Perform routine equipment checks, cleaning, and basic operator-level maintenance to ensure proper equipment operation.
• Report equipment malfunctions or abnormal operating conditions to the appropriate personnel.
• Read, understand, and follow manufacturing travelers, engineering drawings, customer specifications, and applicable work instructions.
• Comply with applicable IPC standards, ISO procedures, and company quality management system requirements.
• Follow all company safety policies, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), chemical safety procedures where applicable, and safe equipment operation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Meet established production schedules, quality objectives, and departmental performance expectations.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at improving inspection accuracy, reducing defects, and increasing manufacturing efficiency.
• Assist with training new AOI Operators as directed by management.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in PCB manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, or…