At a Glance
- Tasks: Set up and monitor SMT production equipment for electronics manufacturing.
- Company: Established electronics design and manufacturing business in Littlehampton.
- Benefits: Salary between £26,000 - £28,000, stable position, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity for cross-training and career development in a growing industry.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and support innovative products in MedTech and aerospace.
- Qualifications: Experience in SMT production or electronics assembly preferred.
Location: Littlehampton, West Sussex
Salary: £26,000 - £28,000, depending on experience
TPA Recruit is supporting an established electronics design and manufacturing business in the search for an SMT Operator. This hands-on role will set up, run and monitor surface-mount production equipment using approved job documentation, programmes and working methods. The SMT Operator will be responsible for accurate material loading, first-off preparation, line monitoring, routine fault recovery, traceability and safe escalation of non-standard issues.
Key Responsibilities
- Complete SMT setup and changeover from approved works orders, header files and feeder or magazine information.
- Load and verify components, feeders, stencils, solder paste, PCB panels and line support equipment.
- Check part identity, orientation, polarity, quantities, revision status and traceability before production.
- Support peer-reviewed startup and first-off checks before releasing the job into full production.
- Operate printers, pick-and-place equipment and associated SMT line equipment using approved programmes.
- Monitor paste, feeders, print quality, placement, wastage and general line stability during production.
- Recover routine operator-level stoppages safely and escalate repeated, quality-related or non-standard faults.
- Complete visual checks, Manutrax records, downtime logging, ESD controls and housekeeping requirements.
Experience and Skills Required
- Previous SMT production, electronics assembly or similar manufacturing experience.
- Experience with SMT printers, placement equipment, feeders or associated line equipment.
- Ability to follow controlled works orders, setup instructions, programmes and standard procedures.
- Understanding of component identification, orientation, polarity and basic PCB quality checks.
- Aware of ESD, electronic component handling and manufacturing traceability.
- Accurate record keeping and confidence using computer-based manufacturing systems.
- Methodical working style, good judgement and willingness to develop through cross-training.
What the Role Offers
- £26,000 - £28,000 salary, depending on experience.
- A stable position within an established electronics manufacturer.
- Work supporting products used in MedTech, industrial, rail, instrumentation and aerospace markets.
- Training toward full SMT setup and line-running competence.
TPA Recruit is a specialist recruitment agency acting on behalf of our client to source and assess suitable candidates for this position. All applications will be reviewed and processed by our team, who will liaise directly with shortlisted individuals throughout the hiring process.
SMT Operator in Littlehampton employer: Terry Parris Associates
Join a reputable electronics design and manufacturing company in Littlehampton, where you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to producing high-quality products for critical sectors such as MedTech and aerospace. With a focus on employee development, you will receive comprehensive training in SMT operations, ensuring your skills grow alongside the company's innovative projects. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values accuracy, teamwork, and continuous improvement, making it an excellent place for those seeking a rewarding career in electronics manufacturing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SMT Operator in Littlehampton
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Terry Parris Associates, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace SMT Operator in Littlehampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Terry Parris Associates specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Terry Parris Associates
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Terry Parris Associates, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Terry Parris Associates value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
