PCB | Cross Section Lab Technician - Day ShIFT

Full job description

Cross Section Lab Technician

Summary:
The PCB Cross Section Lab Technician is responsible for preparing and analyzing microsections of printed circuit boards (PCBs) to evaluate internal structures and ensure compliance with customer, IPC, and industry standards. This role plays a critical part in the quality assurance process by providing detailed data on internal layer alignment, plating thickness, drill accuracy, and other essential PCB attributes.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

· Prepare microsections of PCBs using precision cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing and etching techniques.

· Perform optical and microscopic inspection of cross-sections to verify internal features and plating conformity.

· Prepare microsections of PCBs using precision cutting, flux, molten solder, alcohol, and solder pot to perform Solderability Test on Printed Circuit Boards

· Perform Solderability Test per J-STD-003 to verify the conformity to customer and industry standard requirements.

· Record and interpret dimensional and structural data using calibrated measurement tools (microscope, caliper, micrometer, etc.).

· Document and maintain detailed reports, photos, and analysis records according to IPC standards (e.g., IPC-A-600, IPC-6012, and ANSI/J-STD-003).

· Interface with Quality Engineers and Process Engineers to provide feedback on process performance.

· Ensure proper calibration and maintenance of lab equipment.

· Handle and dispose of chemicals used in the cross-sectioning process in accordance with Westak’s safety protocols and environmental regulations.

· Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities for quality issues.

· Maintain a clean and organized work environment in accordance with 5S and safety protocols.

· Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions, adhere to established procedures, and effectively prioritize tasks based on a defined priority list.

Education and Qualifications:

· High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training in electronics, materials science, or a related field preferred.

· 1+ years of experience in PCB manufacturing or materials testing, in a cross-section lab environment.

· Knowledge of IPC standards (especially IPC-A-600, IPC-TM-650 and ANSI/J-STD-003).

· Experience using metallographic microscopes, microhardness testers, and image capture software.

· Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting (MS Excel, Word, ERP systems).

Preferred Education and Qualifications:

· Associates degree or certification in electronics technology, quality assurance, or materials science.

· OSHA or RCRA training certification (company-provided if not available).

Physical Requirements:

· Ability to sit or stand at a workstation for extended periods (up to 8 hours per shift).

· Manual dexterity for handling small tools and PCB samples with precision.

· Vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus under a microscope.

· Occasional lifting of items up to 30 pounds (equipment, materials, chemicals).

· Must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and lab coats, as needed.

Exposure to lab chemicals; proper use of ventilation hoods and PPE is required to ensure safety.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance

• Employee assistance program

• Flexible spending account

• Health insurance

• Health savings account

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift

• 8 hour shift

• Day shift

• Monday to Friday

• Overtime

• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person