SMT Process Engineer-Technical Center Lead

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Full Time Vernon Hills, IL, US

4 days ago Requisition

Job Summary

The Technical Center Lead is responsible for leading and managing technical center activities, including customer demonstrations, proof-of-concept builds, advanced applications, and troubleshooting of complex SMT equipment and production-line issues. The role provides hands-on process engineering and technical leadership to support customer requirements and the successful application of SMT technologies.

The position requires strong software aptitude and the ability to work effectively with advanced manufacturing technologies and digital tools. The Technical Center Lead evaluates and applies emerging technologies and capabilities to practical customer and production environments, supporting continuous improvement and the advancement of SMT processes and applications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the Technical Center, including scheduling, priorities, safety, appearance, and customer readiness.
• Plan and lead customer demonstrations, technical evaluations, product trials, training activities, and proof-of-concept builds from preparation through final presentation and follow-up.
• Work with customers and internal teams to define application requirements, demonstration objectives, process conditions, and measurable success criteria.
• Configure, program, operate, and optimize Fuji placement equipment and support SMT line systems.
• Perform high-level troubleshooting of machine, software, mechanical, electrical, material-handling, programming, and process-related issues.
• Maintain Technical Center equipment, feeders, tooling, software, spare parts, boards, materials, and consumables in an organized and fully operational condition.
• Demonstrate smart factory and connected-line capabilities, including Industry 4.0 concepts, MES connectivity, production data, automation, and applicable line communication standards.
• Prepare demonstration reports, technical summaries, process recommendations, training materials, and customer-facing technical documentation.
• Support major trade show activities
• Other duties as assigned by manager.

Skills, Qualifications, & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or equivalent directly relevant industry experience.
• Extensive experience in SMT process engineering, or a closely related technical field; at least 10 yrs.
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead customer demonstrations, and technical evaluations
• Advanced troubleshooting capabilities across mechanical, electrical, software, programming, material-handling, and process-related issues.
• Knowledge of smart factory systems
• Ability to analyze production and machine performance, identify root causes, and develop practical corrective actions.
• Ability to travel up to 15% domestic/international

Physical Requirements

Employees are required daily to stand, walk, and work with hand and automated tools. Employees are required to climb or balance, reach for controls, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and stand for long periods. Must occasionally lift, move push or pull up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.