About Garner Osborne Circuits
Garner Osborne Circuits is a long‑established UK manufacturer of high‑quality printed circuit boards and electronic assemblies. We pride ourselves on technical excellence, reliability, and building strong partnerships with our customers across a wide range of industries. Our people are at the heart of our success, and we foster a culture built on high standards, continuous improvement, and mutual respect.
We are now looking for SMT Operator's to join our SMT Assembly team and support the continued delivery of high‑quality products to our customers.
The Role
As an SMT Operator, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining automated SMT assembly equipment to ensure the accurate placement of surface mount components on printed circuit boards (PCBs). This role is critical to the efficiency, quality, and consistency of our production line.
You will work closely with the SMT Team Leader, Quality, and Engineering teams, ensuring all work is completed safely, accurately, and in line with company standards, IPC requirements, and our commitment to continuous improvement.
Shift Patterns Available:
Late Shift
- Monday to Thursday: 13:00 – 22:00
- Friday: 13:00 – 19:00
- Includes a 20% late‑shift pay enhancement
Overtime available, paid at time and a half.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and operate SMT pick‑and‑place machines (Yamaha & Juki).
- Load reels, feeders, and trays with surface mount components.
- Program and adjust machine settings to meet job specifications.
- Carry out job changeovers in line with production schedules.
- Monitor machine performance and output for accuracy and consistency.
- Inspect PCBs for correct placement, alignment, and solder paste application.
- Print solder paste manually or using stencil printer machines.
- Reflow PCBs using reflow ovens and follow correct thermal profiles.
- Operate X‑ray inspection equipment to verify solder joints, including BGAs.
- Troubleshoot basic machine, feeder, and process issues.
- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of SMT equipment.
- Ensure all work complies with IPC‑A‑610 workmanship standards.
- Maintain a clean, tidy, and well‑organised work area.
- Complete production records and documentation accurately.
- Follow ESD, PPE, health and safety, and quality procedures at all times.
- Promptly report defects, issues, or safety concerns.
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Previous experience operating SMT machines within a manufacturing environment.
- Conversational level of written and spoken English.
- Ability to read and follow assembly drawings, BOMs, and work instructions.
- Experience with solder paste printing, reflow ovens, and X‑ray inspection.
- Knowledge of IPC‑A‑610 workmanship standards.
- Good attention to detail and manual dexterity.
- Understanding of ESD precautions.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
- IPC‑A‑610 certification.
- Experience in high‑mix, low‑to‑medium volume production.
- Knowledge of feeder calibration, stencil cleaning, and SMT troubleshooting.
- Experience in ISO or quality‑controlled manufacturing environments.
Our Values
- High Standards – Pride in quality and ownership
- Positive Energy – A proactive, can‑do attitude
- Solutions Driven – Focused on improvement and practical outcomes
- Integrity & Respect – Doing the right thing and valuing others
Pay: £14.50-£18.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company events
- Company pension
- Enhanced maternity leave
- Free flu jabs
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
Experience:
- SMT Assembly: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
