Quality Inspection PCBA Group Leader

Description

The Quality Inspector – PCBA Group Leader is a working leader responsible for the day-to-day supervision, coordination, and technical oversight of the PCBA Inspection area in Greenville. Reporting to the Quality Systems Manager / Supplier Quality Engineer, this role bridges hands-on PCBA inspection expertise with first-line leadership, ensuring the team delivers consistent, high-quality results aligned with IPC standards and EPC Power’s quality requirements.

This is not a purely administrative role. The Group Leader is expected to lead by example on the floor – performing inspections, mentoring team members, solving technical problems, and driving continuous improvement within the PCBA inspection function.

Requirements

Team Leadership & Supervision:

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to PCBA Inspectors and PCBA/Electronics Specialists.
• Assign tasks, manage workload distribution, and adjust priorities to meet production and quality needs.
• Monitor team performance; provide real-time coaching and feedback; escalate issues when necessary.
• Support the hiring process by reviewing applicant credentials, participating in interviews, and making recommendations.
• Identify and assess team training needs; coordinate, deliver, or arrange appropriate instruction, including IPC-A-610 training and certification support.
• Resolve personnel issues or concerns at the team level when possible; escalate to management when required.
• Ensure all team members operate safely and in accordance with established procedures, ESD requirements, and 5S standards.
  
  

PCBA Inspection & Technical Oversight

• Perform and oversee quality inspections – visual and functional – on PCBAs, electronic components, solder joints, and sub-assemblies per IPC-A-610 acceptance criteria.
• Serve as the area’s technical reference for PCBA inspection standards, defect identification, and disposition decisions.
• Lead non-conformance detection: identify deviations in soldering quality, component placement, and rework; ensure proper escalation and documentation.
• Review incoming PCBA materials and bare boards to verify conformance to specifications and supplier requirements.
• Manage the processing of nonconforming boards returned from production, ensuring proper ESD handling, NCMR documentation, and internal disposition.
  
  

Documentation, Reporting & Quality Systems

• Generate and review Quality Alerts, inspection reports, Non-Conformance Material Reports (NCMRs), and other quality records.
• Maintain departmental files, logs, and databases; ensure data integrity and traceability.
• Prepare impact assessments for process and procedural deviations related to electronics manufacturing.
• Generate reports and status updates for management and cross-functional teams as needed.
• Support the development and revision of PCBA inspection procedures, work instructions, and quality plans.
  
  

Auditing, Compliance & Calibration

• Assist in the preparation and execution of internal audits and follow-up activities related to the PCBA inspection area.
• Support supplier-facing activities, including audits of Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) providers.
• Manage and perform equipment calibrations and maintenance for inspection tools (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, magnification systems, AOI).
• Ensure compliance with IPC standards, company procedures, and all applicable quality regulations.
  
  

Continuous Improvement

• Identify recurring defect trends and drive root cause analysis and corrective action efforts within the inspection area.
• Propose and implement process improvements to enhance inspection effectiveness, throughput, and team capability.
• Actively participate in cross-functional quality improvement initiatives.
  
  

General Duties

• Perform other related tasks and special projects as assigned.
• Uphold EPC Power’s standards for ethics, professionalism, and protection of proprietary information.
  
  

Required Skills

Education & Training – High School Diploma required. Associate degree in Electronics Technology or a related technical discipline preferred.

Specialized Experience – Experience in PCBA or electronics inspection, rework, or repair. Prior experience in a formal or informal team leadership role strongly preferred

Certifications – IPC-A-610 CIS (Certified IPC Specialist) certification required or must be obtained within an agreed timeframe. IPC-A-610 CIT (Certified IPC Trainer) certification a plus.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong working knowledge of IPC-A-610 acceptability standards for electronic assemblies.
• Thorough understanding of ESD handling requirements and procedures.
• Understanding of soldering processes, component types, and common PCBA defects.
• Knowledge of electronics manufacturing processes, inspection tooling, and product/process validation.
  
  

General Skills

• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to develop clear, concise, and timely reports.
• Ability to manage shifting priorities with professionalism and adaptability.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of various teams.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
  
  

Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Disability and life insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee Incentive Program (EIP)
  
  

EPC Power is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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