What does a SMT Engineer do?

Also known as surface mount technology, this is a part of electronic assembly. The technology helps mount electronic components right on top of printed circuit boards. This is the primary technology the PCB assembly process uses. This technology provides an impressive way to reduce manufacturing costs. Also, it helps use PCB space effectively. The introduction of surface mount technology now makes it possible to manufacture complex electronic circuits into smaller assemblies. This is where an SMT process engineer comes in.

The major assignment of an SMT process engineer is in the production line of surface mount technology. Assisting in the attachment of electronic materials to the printed circuit board is one of the job descriptions. The SMT process engineer also inspects all completed assemblies. The major aim is to detect defects and imperfections. They provide feedback on the design process. The engineer also advises on instances where the quality needs an upgrade.

Operate Machinery

The SMT engineer also inspects tools, machines, software, and every material. These are materials that will ensure the smooth flow of the manufacturing process.

Software/Analytic Skills

A person in this role should be able to use simulation software, design software, and others matters a lot. You may also need to analyze and interpret data into charts, reports, and diagrams.

Quality Control

The SMT engineer has to check quality. This happens visually and through various tests. Outputs from manufacturing should be durable. Furthermore, all products should meet the specified standard.

Critical Reasoning Skills

SMT engineers need to possess the ability to detect problems. You should also be able to proffer solutions to the issue from various angles.

How much does a SMT Engineer make?

The average annual salary for a SMT Process Engineer in the United States is $79,001. Salary.com reports that pay typically ranges from $73,931 to $85,155, with most professionals earning between $69,316 and $90,758.

These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

What does the workplace for a SMT Engineer look like?

SMT engineers spend much of their day in an office or laboratory environment. Sometimes they may work in or travel to industrial plants or refineries to monitor operations and solve problems. Due to the involvement of hazardous chemicals, the work can be dangerous, but process engineers should know how to safely handle them. Safety protocols are also regularly enforced.

SMT engineers usually work full time, but they may have extended hours on occasion in order to meet project requirements. Most process engineers work 40-hours weeks during regular business hours.

They typically are involved in the planning, management, coordination, and control of the manufacturing process in the course of their day.

How to become a SMT Engineer?

With a bachelor’s degree in some fields, you qualify for SMT engineering. Some of those fields are Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or Material science.

There might be some companies willing to hire fresh SMT process engineers without experience. However, having experience gives you an edge over others. Bear in mind that experience varies with the companies.

Knowledge of any of the following will set you ahead of the rest:

• Significance experience with continuous improvement in manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with tools, boards, parts, and other components of PCB assembly
• Experience with quality standard and inspection
• Ample understanding of engineering bill of material
• Ability to interpret engineering drawing.
• Understanding of molding materials, SMT, and the process of semiconductor packaging.
• The apt understanding of the assembly process and equipment. This includes SMT process tools.