Metal and Soldering Operator at Europa Eyewear – Vernon Hills, Illinois

Role Description:

The Metal and Soldering Operator is responsible for performing precise soldering and assembly of metal components in accordance with technical drawings, production standards, and quality control procedures. This role ensures that all parts meet required specifications and quality expectations before moving to the next stage of production. The operator is responsible for maintaining high workmanship standards, performing visual inspections, following quality control frequency requirements, and accurately documenting inspection results.

About Europa Eyewear

Europa Eyewear, based in Vernon Hills, IL, is one of the largest independent designers and manufacturers of eyewear frames in the United States. Europa offers a diverse portfolio of 11 independent eyewear brands, including STATE Optical Co., which launched in 2015, and American Optical (AO Eyewear), which are both produced in our Chicago factory, the largest eyewear manufacturing facility in the United States. Europa partnered with Blue Point Capital Partners in April of 2023 to prepare for its next stage of growth. As part of the platform strategy, Blue Point made its first acquisition, in eyebobs, an omni-channel premium readers brand based in Minneapolis, MN, in 2023 as well.

Why Europa?

Europa is committed to serving our customers and the optical market with unique, high-quality, independent eyewear brands and partner-first support. We are equally committed to empowering our team, ensuring they have the support, freedom, and opportunities to grow. At Europa, we’re not just a company - we’re a community driven by a shared purpose. Our culture is built on the pillars of independence, entrepreneurship, grounded values, and approachability, which makes us an exciting and dynamic place to build a career.

We offer generous benefits, competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. We prioritize and maintain an inclusive, diverse, and respectful culture, and ensure reasonable accommodation is made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their role.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform precise soldering of metal components following technical drawings, work instructions, and company quality standards.
• Conduct regular visual inspections of components prior to and during the soldering process.
• Verify that parts are properly aligned and match technical drawings, using approved control pieces at the workstation andquality control office for comparison when necessary.
• Follow the required quality control inspection frequency to ensure ongoing production accuracy.
• Accurately complete the quality control trackers, including operator name, inspection date, number of acceptable parts produced, and number of rejected parts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation while following all company safety and production procedures.

Competencies Needed for Success

• Attention to Detail: Ability to identify defects and ensure high-quality soldering work.
• Fine Motor Skills: Ability to handle and assemble small components with steady and controlled hand movements.
• Quality Focus: Commitment to producing parts that meet strict quality standards.
• Problem Recognition: Ability to identify potential issues and escalate concerns appropriately.
• Documentation Accuracy: Ability to maintain accurate quality control records and production documentation.
• Time Management: Maintains productivity while ensuring quality standards are met.

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience in soldering, metal assembly, or manufacturing preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience working with technical drawings or assembly diagrams is an advantage.
• Familiarity with production quality control processes is beneficial.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify small surface imperfections.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.
• Basic knowledge of soldering tools and techniques.
• Strong visual inspection and quality assessment skills.

Position Details

• Full-time onsite position based at our Vernon Hills, IL Headquarters