Conformal Coating Process Engineer

StepBeyond Solutions recruits for EMS SMT Electronics Manufacturing
A San Jose EMS is seeking a
Conformal Coating Process Engineer

Job Title: Conformal Coating Process Engineer

Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled Conformal Coating Process Engineer to join our team, specializing in Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA). This role will serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) in developing, qualifying, and optimizing conformal coating processes to enhance PCB reliability against environmental challenges. The engineer will drive high-yield production, troubleshoot defects, and manage automated selective coating systems.

Key Responsibilities:
Process Development & Optimization: Define and validate coating application parameters, including spray patterns, atomization, nozzle performance, and viscosity management to ensure high-quality results.
Equipment Management: Program, maintain, and troubleshoot automated selective coating machines to optimize production efficiency.
Material Selection: Evaluate and select suitable coating materials (acrylic, silicone, urethane, parylene, UV-curable) based on environmental requirements such as thermal, chemical, and moisture resistance.
Quality Assurance & Troubleshooting: Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) on defects (e.g., de-wetting, cracking) and implement Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPA) to enhance product quality.
Masking Strategy: Establish masking procedures and jigs to ensure precise coating application while preventing coverage on designated keep-out areas (e.g., connectors, test points).
New Product Introduction (NPI): Support new product initiatives by defining coating requirements, acceptance criteria, and conducting Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews.
Documentation & Training: Create and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), process sheets, and training materials for production operators.

Required Qualifications:
Education: Bachelors Degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Science preferred).
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of process engineering experience in PCBA, with a focus on conformal coating in high-reliability environments.
Industry Standards: In-depth knowledge of IPC standards (IPC-CC-830, IPC-A-610 Class 2 & 3, J-STD-001).
Technical Skills: Proficient with selective coating equipment, such as PVA and Nordson ASYMTEK, as well as curing ovens.
Material Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of solvent-based and UV-cured chemistry.

Preferred Skills:
Lean/Six Sigma certification.
SMTA Certified Process Engineer.
Experience with automated optical inspection (AOI) for conformal coating applications.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand or walk on the manufacturing floor to monitor processes.
Capable of wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators.
Occasional lifting of equipment or boards weighing up to 25 lbs.

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about enhancing the reliability of electronic components, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to drive innovation in our manufacturing processes.