Job Description
Production Engineering Specialist - PCBA
Job Location:  San Giovanni Valdarno
Department:  Process Engineering
Work Model:  On Site
Full-Time/Part-Time:  Full Time
Contract Type:  Permanent
Job Req ID:  1411

As a Production engineering specialist – PCBA, you will be responsible for developing and optimizing electronic board assembly processes (SMT & THT) from early design phases to mass production. You will work cross-functionally with international design, quality, testing, and maintenance teams to ensure production scalability, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.

 

Key Responsibilities:

 

1. Industrialization & Process Design

  • Define robust and scalable production processes for Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA), including Surface Mount Technology (SMT) and Through-Hole Technology (THT).
  • Support DFM/DFT analysis to ensure product manufacturability and testability.
  • Specify and validate production equipment (pick-and-place, AOI, SPI, wave soldering, selective soldering, etc.).
  • Define layout, CapEx investment, and industrialization timeline.

2. Production Ramp-up & Operations

  • Coordinate and supervise the ramp-up of new PCBA lines, ensuring smooth transitions from prototyping to full-scale production.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues related to SMT/THT processes and work closely with R&D and suppliers to implement corrective actions.
  • Maintain and update technical documentation, including Work Instructions, Control Plans, and SOPs.
  • Monitor production KPIs such as yield, FPY, defect rate, and cycle time.

3. Data Analysis & Process Optimization

  • Analyze process data (e.g., SPI/AOI results, reflow profiles, soldering quality) to drive continuous improvement.
  • Define strategies for automation, outsourcing, and efficiency boosting where applicable.

4. Innovation & Continuous Improvement

  • Scout new assembly technologies, materials (e.g., solder pastes, conformal coatings), and testing solutions.
  • Drive implementation of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma tools to reduce cost and increase reliability.
  • Promote a culture of zero-defect and preventive quality.

 

Requirements:

 

  • Master’s degree in Electronic, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent).
  • Previous experience in PCBA manufacturing, especially in SMT and/or THT processes.
  • Knowledge of IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-610) and electronic component technologies.
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, Minitab, or equivalent).
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in cross-functional teams.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

 

Nice to Have:

 

  • Experience with SMT equipment and inspection systems (AOI, SPI, X-Ray).
  • Familiarity with MES and traceability systems for electronics manufacturing.
  • Experience in NPI (New Product Introduction) and fast-paced prototyping e
Information at a Glance

Operations

Welcome to Operations, where strategic supply chain management and operational excellence meet. Our teams focus on supply chain strategy, vendor partnerships, and KPI tracking to ensure cost-effective operations. We manage transitions to mass production and fulfill European and North American demand from our factories in San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy and Phoenix, USA whilst optimizing the global value chain. Within Operations advanced capabilities drive quality standards and continuous improvement, while HSE ensures safety and environmental compliance. Warranty management and PMO lead operational projects aligned with strategic goals.