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Overview
Surface-mount technology machine operators run SMT machines that place and solder small electronic components onto printed circuit boards for surface-mounted devices.
In job descriptions, look for SMT lines, PCB handling, component feeders, soldering, machine setup, inspection, production faults, rework handover and clean handling of electronic assemblies.
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Open in Job ExplorerWork context
SMT machine operators usually work on electronics production lines with printed circuit boards, component feeders, solder paste and inspection points. The work links machine setup, steady production, fault spotting and careful handover when boards need rework.
Skills and specializations
Useful strengths include reading production instructions, loading feeders correctly, monitoring soldering results, recognizing misplaced components and keeping electronic assemblies clean. Some roles focus on high-volume line operation, others on prototypes or small batches.
Salary context
Salary context is shaped by shift pattern, line complexity, responsibility for setup, inspection duties, rework handover and experience with SMT equipment. Roles that combine operation with troubleshooting or first-line maintenance are usually scoped differently from basic line work.
Career paths
Experience can lead toward SMT line lead, electronics assembly quality control, production planning, test technician work or maintenance support for placement and soldering equipment.
Good to know
Check whether the advert expects only machine operation or also feeder preparation, visual inspection, fault logging, minor maintenance and communication with rework or quality teams.
Editorial note
This guide gives editorial career context for SMT machine operation, not official labour-market statistics or salary data.
Map overview
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O*NET relationships
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Alternative labels
Occupation group
Electrical and electronic equipment assemblers (8212)
Source facts
| ESCO URI | http://data.europa.eu/esco/occupation/52c25b47-c36e-49ff-92ce-8a8c5413fde6 |
|---|---|
| ESCO code | 8212.4 |
| ISCO group | 8212 |
| Concept type | Occupation |