Datalink Electronics Ltd
SMT Operator

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Company Description
Datalink Electronics Ltd, established in 1983, is a UK-based contract electronics manufacturing company certified to ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 standards. The organization delivers integrated design and production services, including conceptual design, PCBA layout, rapid NPI, PCBA manufacturing and testing, and final product assembly. With a focus on low to medium volume, high mix product profiles, Datalink serves a range of sectors and offers both one-off production and full turnkey solutions, managing the entire supply chain. Customers range from multinational PLCs to start-ups, with many long-term partnerships reflecting the company’s commitment to tailored service and high-quality outcomes in a dynamic industry.
Role Description
The SMT Operator role is a full-time, on-site position based in Loughborough. The SMT Operator will set up, operate, and monitor SMT equipment, including pick-and-place machines, reflow ovens, and inspection systems, to manufacture high-quality PCB assemblies. Daily tasks include loading components and stencils, performing machine program changes, conducting visual and automated inspections, and ensuring correct soldering and component placement. The role also involves reading and interpreting engineering drawings and work instructions, completing quality documentation, performing basic equipment maintenance, and collaborating with production and engineering teams to resolve issues. The SMT Operator is expected to follow health and safety procedures and contribute to continuous improvement in the manufacturing process.
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Qualifications
- Strong experience with SMT production processes, including set-up, operation, and basic maintenance of SMT lines (e.g., pick-and-place, reflow ovens, AOI).
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents such as PCB layouts, assembly drawings, bills of materials, and work instructions.
- Good understanding of electronics manufacturing quality standards and practices, ideally within ISO 9001 and/or ISO 13485 environments.
- Attention to detail and manual dexterity for handling small components, performing visual inspection, and ensuring accurate placement and soldering.
- Basic IT and data entry skills for using production software, recording process parameters, and completing quality and production records.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with production, engineering, and quality teams.
- Willingness to follow health, safety, and ESD procedures and contribute to a clean, organized working area.
- Previous experience in electronics manufacturing or SMT assembly is highly beneficial; vocational or technical qualifications in electronics or manufacturing are an advantage.


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Applicants must currently reside in the UK and have the unrestricted right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
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