Job Description

Sterling Engineering is seeking an experienced SMT Process Engineer/Technical Center Lead to oversee technical center operations, lead customer demonstrations, and provide hands-on engineering support for advanced SMT equipment and applications. This role requires extensive SMT process engineering experience, strong troubleshooting capabilities, and the ability to work directly with customers to develop and demonstrate technical solutions.

Location : Vernon Hills, IL 60069

Compensation : $115k-$125k

Benefits : A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan.

Travel : Up to 15% Domestic and International

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead proof-of-concept builds, customer demonstrations, technical evaluations, and advanced SMT applications.
• Configure, program, troubleshoot, and optimize SMT placement equipment and production line systems.
• Diagnose complex machine, software, electrical, mechanical, and process-related issues.
• Partner with customers to understand technical requirements, develop solutions, and demonstrate equipment capabilities.
• Oversee daily Technical Center operations, including equipment readiness, scheduling, and technical priorities.
• Support smart factory technologies, automation, MES connectivity, and Industry 4.0 applications.
• Analyze equipment performance, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare technical reports, process recommendations, and customer-facing documentation.
• Support customer training and major trade show activities.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent directly relevant industry experience.
• 10+ years of SMT process engineering experience or closely related technical experience.
• Strong hands-on experience with SMT equipment, programming, process optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across mechanical, electrical, software, and production processes.
• Experience leading customer demonstrations, technical evaluations, and proof-of-concept builds.
• Knowledge of smart factory systems, manufacturing automation, and connected production technologies.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work directly with customers and internal engineering teams.
• Ability to travel up to 15% domestically and internationally.

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