Job Summary

The AOI Operator is responsible for operating Automated Optical Inspection equipment to verify the quality of assembled printed circuit boards (PCBAs). The operator ensures defect detection, accurate inspection, and reporting to support high product quality and process efficiency. This role plays a critical part in identifying assembly defects before they move to the next manufacturing stage.

ACCOUNTABILITIES/ SCOPE

Interfaces:

· Quality Assurance Team – For reporting defects, rework verification, and quality feedback.

· Process / SMT Engineers – For providing inspection feedback and discussing false calls or systemic issues.

People Managed: None

Decisions:

· Determine acceptance or rejection of inspected boards based on AOI results and IPC standards.

· Escalate inspection issues or equipment malfunction to appropriate personnel.

· Make judgment calls on false positives versus real defects within defined limits.

· Recommend adjustments to AOI programming to reduce false calls (with engineer support).

Impact of Error:

· High impact – Undetected defects can result in product failures, costly rework, missed deliveries, and customer dissatisfaction.

· Incorrect rejection increases workload and inspection bottlenecks.

· Data entry errors can distort defect trend analysis and lead to incorrect process conclusions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate AOI machines (2D/3D) to inspect PCBAs for soldering defects, component misplacements, polarity errors, and other visual defects.
• Load and unload PCB panels to/from AOI equipment safely and efficiently.
• Review and verify inspection results, including differentiating between false calls and true defects.
• Perform first article inspection using AOI and manual visual inspection as required.
• Interpret AOI inspection reports and categorize defects per IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-610).
• Communicate non-conformities to the appropriate teams (e.g., SMT technicians, QA, rework).
• Document and track inspection data and defect trends.
• Assist in machine setup, maintenance checks, and basic troubleshooting of AOI systems.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in inspection and quality control processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures and ESD protocols.

KNOWLEDGE/ SKILLS

· Understanding of PCB assembly processes, components, and soldering defects.

· Proficient in reading PCB layout diagrams, assembly drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM).

· Familiarity with AOI software (e.g., Koh Young, Mirtec, CyberOptics, or equivalent).

· Basic knowledge of IPC-A-610 standards.

· Attention to detail with strong visual inspection ability.

· Computer literacy (data entry, basic software navigation).

· Good communication and teamwork skills.

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE

Education:

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· Technical certification or coursework in electronics or manufacturing is a plus.

Experience:

· Minimum 1-2 years of experience in PCB assembly or quality inspection.

· Prior experience with AOI equipment preferred but not mandatory; on-the-job training may be provided.

· Familiarity with SMT and reflow processes is a plus.

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.