SMT Operator

Job Title: SMT Operator
Location: Littlehampton, West Sussex
Salary: £26,000 - £28,000, depending on experience
TPA Recruit is supporting an established electronics design and manufacturing business in the search for an SMT Operator. This hands-on role will set up, run and monitor surface-mount production equipment using approved job documentation, programmes and working methods.
The SMT Operator will be responsible for accurate material loading, first-off preparation, line monitoring, routine fault recovery, traceability and safe escalation of non-standard issues.
Key Responsibilities
* Complete SMT setup and changeover from approved works orders, header files and feeder or magazine information.
* Load and verify components, feeders, stencils, solder paste, PCB panels and line support equipment.
* Check part identity, orientation, polarity, quantities, revision status and traceability before production.
* Support peer-reviewed startup and first-off checks before releasing the job into full production.
* Operate printers, pick-and-place equipment and associated SMT line equipment using approved programmes.
* Monitor paste, feeders, print quality, placement, wastage and general line stability during production.
* Recover routine operator-level stoppages safely and escalate repeated, quality-related or non-standard faults.
* Complete visual checks, Manutrax records, downtime logging, ESD controls and housekeeping requirements.
Experience and Skills Required
* Previous SMT production, electronics assembly or similar manufacturing experience.
* Experience with SMT printers, placement equipment, feeders or associated line equipment.
* Ability to follow controlled works orders, setup instructions, programmes and standard procedures.
* Understanding of component identification, orientation, polarity and basic PCB quality checks.
* Awareness of ESD, electronic component handling and manufacturing traceability.
* Accurate record keeping and confidence using computer-based manufacturing systems.
* Methodical working style, good judgement and willingness to develop through cross-training.
What the Role Offers
* £26,000 - £28,000 salary, depending on experience.
* A stable position within an established electronics manufacturer.
* Work supporting products used in MedTech, industrial, rail, instrumentation and aerospace markets.
* Training toward full SMT setup and line-running competence.
TPA Recruit is a specialist recruitment agency acting on behalf of our client to source and assess suitable candidates for this position. All applications will be reviewed and processed by our team, who will liaise directly with shortlisted individuals throughout the hiring process