Which SMD component as IR barrier?
If there is an extra or manual labor cost for THT 0.1" headers, try SMD 0.1" headers. Pick &amp; Place and wave soldering compatible, but from what I've seen (samtec catalog) these need a minimum of 3 pins due to the alternating smd feet to keep them standing before the solder holds them on.


That, or switch to an IR transistor/Diode pair that already comes with a molded body, unless those don't exist in smd (try asking Vishay, they do everything IR).