SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
Etched is building custom AI inference hardware, combining chip design, racks, software, and manufacturing. They are seeking an experienced SMT Process Engineer to establish their first PCB assembly (PCBA) manufacturing facility in San Jose.
You will lead the end-to-end launch of the company's first SMT production line, from equipment selection and installation through volume production. This is a hands-on role with significant ownership and technical leadership responsibility.
Key responsibilities include:
- Equipment selection, specification, and vendor coordination for SMT line installation
- Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) support
- SMT equipment programming and process development (solder paste printers, SPI, pick-and-place, AOI, AXI, depanelization)
- Tooling definition, procurement, and qualification (stencils, fixtures, pallets, rework equipment)
- Manufacturing support across prototype, EVT, DVT, PVT, and production builds
- Development of equipment operating procedures, work instructions, and process controls
- Operator training and certification
- Technical leadership and coaching of one SMT Engineering Technician
- Process and lab readiness (reflow profiles, characterization, failure analysis support)
- Continuous improvement initiatives focused on first-pass yield (FPY), throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
The role requires hands-on technical expertise, vendor management, cross-functional collaboration with engineering teams, and the ability to establish manufacturing standards and best practices from scratch. You will work in a fully in-person environment at Santana Row in San Jose with a team that values engineering excellence and cross-disciplinary contribution.
QUALIFICATIONS (MUST-HAVE):
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent practical experience
- 10+ years of SMT manufacturing engineering experience
- Demonstrated experience supporting SMT line installation, commissioning, or factory startup
- Experience with equipment acceptance testing, qualification, and production ramp-up
- Hands-on experience programming and optimizing SMT equipment
- Experience supporting PCBA manufacturing from prototype builds through high-volume production
QUALIFICATIONS (NICE-TO-HAVE):
- Experience leading technicians or small technical teams
