Through-Hole Operator

About the Role

As a Through-Hole Operator at Rocket EMS, you’ll be an essential part of our PCB assembly process — ensuring all components are hand-placed, soldered, and inspected to the highest quality standards. You’ll work closely with engineering, quality, and production teams to build boards that meet IPC-A-610 Class 2 and 3 workmanship standards. This position demands steady hands, sharp attention to detail, and the ability to follow precise build documentation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Review build documentation including MPIs, assembly drawings, ECOs, and customer requirements before starting work.
Manually insert through-hole components onto printed circuit boards according to polarity, orientation, and bill of materials (BOM) requirements.
Perform soldering operations using hand soldering tools, wave solder, or selective solder equipment.
Inspect solder joints and component placement for compliance with IPC-A-610 workmanship standards.
Identify and correct soldering or placement defects; escalate systemic or recurring issues to the Lead or Engineer.
Perform basic rework and touch-up on solder joints when needed.
Complete first-article verification and in-process inspection forms as required.
Maintain clean, organized work areas and adhere to all ESD and MSD handling procedures.
Record production data and communicate pass-downs and quality updates to supervisors.
Support other assembly or rework areas as directed by Supervisor, Engineer, or Manager.
Participate in continuous improvement and 5S initiatives to enhance quality and efficiency.

Qualifications

Education

High school diploma or equivalent (required)

Experience

Minimum 2 years of experience in through-hole assembly or hand soldering in a contract manufacturing or electronics production environment.
IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification (preferred or required depending on role level).

Skills

Strong soldering ability for both leaded and lead-free assemblies.
Ability to read assembly drawings, schematics, and BOMs.
Understanding of polarity, component identification, and color codes.
Familiarity with selective and wave soldering processes.
Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Basic computer literacy (MS Excel, Word, Outlook).
Clear communication skills in English, both verbal and written.

Benefits

401(k) with company match
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Opportunities for advancement in a growing, technology-driven manufacturing environment

Schedule

8-hour shift, Monday – Friday
Overtime and weekends as needed

Pay Range

$20—$25 USD

ITAR/EAR Compliance: Due to the nature of the work performed at Rocket EMS, this position may require access to export-controlled technical data or technology. The successful candidate must be eligible to access such information under applicable U.S. export-control laws or be eligible for any required government authorization.

Rocket EMS will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act. Candidates are not required to disclose criminal history or participate in a background check unless and until a conditional offer of employment has been made. Any final offer of employment may be conditioned on completion of a background check, consistent with applicable law.
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Pay Range 20 - 25 USD

Rocket EMS

Machine Operator - Through-Hole

About the job