SMT Manager at Regal Technology Partners Inc – Santa Ana, California

Job Summary:

The SMT Manager is responsible for leading and managing day-to-day Surface Mount Technology (SMT) production operations, including oversight of personnel, processes, and equipment to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality manufacturing of electronic assemblies.

This role serves as a front-line leader with primary responsibility for supervising SMT personnel, managing production performance, and ensuring operational goals are met. The SMT Manager works closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to support production objectives, new product introductions, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Production & Operational Oversight

• Oversee daily SMT production operations, including scheduling, staffing, and workflow coordination.
• Ensure production schedules, output targets, and quality requirements are consistently met.
• Provide direction and oversight for machine setup, programming, operation, and troubleshooting of SMT equipment (Yamaha pick-and-place machines, stencil printers, reflow ovens, AOI).
• Monitor production performance, identify issues, and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance activities with Engineering and Maintenance teams.

Leadership & People Management

• Supervise, lead, and develop a team of SMT Technicians, including assigning work, setting priorities, and managing performance.
• Ensure adequate staffing coverage and adjust resources based on production needs.
• Provide coaching, training, and ongoing development for team members.
• Participate in hiring decisions, performance management, and disciplinary actions in partnership with Human Resources.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all safety, ESD, quality, and regulatory requirements, including IPC standards and customer specifications.
• Support audits, inspections, and customer visits as required.
• Lead or participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive initiatives.
• Review production metrics, yields, and defect data; implement corrective and preventive actions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering and Quality on new board introductions and first article builds.
• Communicate production status, risks, and constraints to Manufacturing leadership.
• Support companywide initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience supervising or leading teams in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of SMT manufacturing processes, equipment, and materials.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex SMT equipment and process issues.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, travelers, and technical documentation.
• Strong organizational, communication, and decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 8+ years of SMT manufacturing experience, including prior leadership or or supervisory responsibilities.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications preferred.
• Experience with Yamaha SMT equipment.
• Familiarity with IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-610, IPC-7711/7721).
• Experience supporting NPI and continuous improvement initiatives.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and frequently perform tasks that require repetitive motion, such as typing on a keyboard.
• Regular use of a computer, telephone, and headset is required, including participation in virtual meetings via Microsoft Teams.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and move throughout production and office areas.
• Manual dexterity and visual acuity required to work with small electronic components and precision equipment.
• This is primarily an office-based role located within a shared open-concept office inside a warehouse facility. The work environment may include elevated noise levels due to open workspaces and conversational noise. Employees should be comfortable working in a setting where sound carries and interruptions may occur.

Additional Information:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications required.

Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time based on business needs and in accordance with applicable laws. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Security Clearance Eligibility:

Some positions at Brandywine Communications may require the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance. While not all roles require an active clearance at the time of hire, applicants must be eligible for clearance under federal guidelines, and employment may be contingent upon successful completion of a government background investigation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

Brandywine Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Brandywine Communications strives to create a workplace that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require accommodation during any part of the application or hiring process, please contact the Human Resources department.