Manufacturing Associate - Mechanical 1, Hand Add
About the job
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- Experience using electronics preparation tools.
- Knowledge and use of IPC 610 and J-STD.
- Basic proficiency in computer systems, including Microsoft Excel (such as VLOOKUPs), Microsoft Office, and Outlook.
- Ability to read, understand, and write English.
- Ability to work well independently or with others.
- Detail-oriented; able to demonstrate sound decision-making and mechanical ability.
- Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
- Navigate and perform transactions in the Smarter Production System.
- Follow safety protocols, material-handling processes, and written work instructions.
- Set up and operate press-fit and detab machines.
- Press components into circuit boards.
- Perform torque testing and first-piece run inspection processes.
- Maintain the condition of fixtures, tooling, and detab equipment.
- Work with the Coordinator and Engineering to improve processing.
- Maintain a clean work area.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Experience with pneumatic presses, machine setup, and/or preparing electronics components.
- Soldering printed circuit board assemblies.
About the company
Vanguard EMS delivers electronics manufacturing services for products that must never fail. It provides high-sensitivity manufacturing and test capabilities to customers in Medical, Aerospace, Defense and Infrastructure, supported by strict processes and formal certifications. The core work involves assembling and testing electronics with a focus on quality, traceability, and compliance, guided by established procedures and continuous optimization to adapt quickly to changing needs. The company distinguishes itself by being in the top 10% of EMS providers for capabilities, emphasizing process discipline, rigorous quality control, and seamless program alignment so programs move quickly from planning to production. Its goal is to ensure reliable performance of critical electronics by delivering consistent, traceable manufacturing that reduces risk and accelerates time to market for mission-critical applications.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Beaverton, Oregon
Founded
1988
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Vanguard EMS says it is the Northwest's largest locally owned electronics manufacturer.
- 2026 careers pages and active postings show continued hiring demand.
- Medical and aerospace pages highlight four FDA manufacturer-of-record devices and DoD qualifications.
What critics are saying
- TSMC sold 152 million Vanguard International Semiconductor shares in May 2026, signaling control risk.
- Workforce stays relatively small at 250 employees, limiting capacity against larger EMS rivals.
- Customer concentration in regulated medical and defense programs creates audit and recall exposure.
What makes Vanguard EMS unique
- Beaverton-based, locally owned EMS with 77,000-square-foot Oregon facility.
- Specializes in medical, aerospace, defense, and industrial high-reliability builds.
- SMARTer Manufacturing delivers near real-time traceability across Class II and III devices.
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Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Company Match
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Profit Sharing