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Vanguard EMS

Vanguard EMS

Critical-sector electronics manufacturing and testing

Manufacturing Associate - Inspector I, Swing

Full-Time
No salary listed
Entry
Associate's
Beaverton, OR, USA
In Person

About the job

Requirements
  • A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required.
  • Ability to obtain J-STD and IPC certification within 90 days is required.
  • Basic proficiency in computer systems is required.
  • English reading, writing, and verbal communication ability is required.
  • General mathematics ability is required.
  • Ability to follow detailed written and verbal directions is required.
  • Strong critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills are required.
  • Ability to use a microscope for extended periods is required.
  • Ability to manipulate extremely small or fragile components and tools is required.
  • Ability to use visual aids and complicated drawings to verify product quality is required.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision and use time productively is required.
  • Ability to perform the physical activities of the job, including using hands to handle tools or controls, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, talking, and hearing, is required.
Responsibilities
  • Inspect boards produced through hand or machine assembly processes.
  • Ensure products meet customer and regulatory requirements.
  • Perform work-in-process transactions in the company software system to ensure traceability.
  • Communicate quality issues to the appropriate team, manager, and engineer as needed.
  • Stop workflow when necessary to prevent repeated manufacture of defective products.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Ensure benches, tools, and equipment are maintained in good working condition.
  • Drive continuous improvement by identifying opportunities and completing improvement projects that improve performance and profits.
  • Apply knowledge of common manufacturing processes and operate manufacturing equipment as needed.
  • Communicate with employees, vendors, and customers in person, by phone, email, internet, or writing in a positive and professional manner.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Desired Qualifications
  • An associate degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred.
  • J-STD and IPC certification is preferred.
  • Experience with surface-mount technology, through-hole, wave, or selective solder processes or equipment operation is preferred.

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