Precision Assembler
Precision assemblers play a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, responsible for assembling intricate products that include components used in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and weapons systems. These professionals work with detailed parts that necessitate multistage assembly processes, often in environments such as factories or industrial plants. The work requires a strong emphasis on mechanical systems, industrial processes, and attention to detail, with precision assemblers regularly using specialized tools and technology.
Employment in this field is characterized by a projected decline, with a median annual earning of approximately $39,720, translating to about $19.10 per hour. While a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, relevant technical training can enhance employability and advancement opportunities. Precision assemblers engage in various tasks depending on their specific roles, from fitting small electronic components to constructing large mechanical systems like turbines and engines. The work environment can vary significantly, ranging from quiet, temperature-controlled spaces for electronics assembly to noisy, industrial settings for transportation production.
Individuals interested in this career often possess strong skills in mechanics and industrial production, and they may benefit from courses in math, drafting, or computer science during their education. The role may also involve collaboration with engineers and technicians, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and effective communication in precision assembly operations.
Precision Assembler
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Mechanical systems, industrial processes and production, mechanics, electrical components, computer science
Earnings (Yearly Median): $39,720 per year $19.10 per hour
Employment & Outlook: -6% (Decline)
Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work. Precision assemblers are responsible for assembling a wide range of finished products, many of which include detailed components requiring multistage assembly. They produce components or goods with intricate parts, such as products used in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, weapons systems, electronics, radios, and some elements of computer systems. Precision assemblers work on a wide variety of products in varying subfields, assembling electrical and mechanical components for industrial, agricultural, and military use.
Work Environment. Virtually all precision assemblers work in facilities that produce a durable product. Since they work with such a large variety of materials, the work may require long periods of standing or sitting and may take place in hot, cramped factories or vast aerospace and automotive production plants. Precision assemblers on radio and computer assemblages tend to work in quiet, brightly lit, temperature- and dust-controlled spaces. At the same time, those in transportation production often come into contact with grease, oil, and industrial chemicals and may work in facilities with high noise levels.
Occupation Interest. Individuals drawn to the profession of precision assembler enjoy detailed work. They can work on complex projects quickly without sacrificing quality. They are often involved in preparing materials for other stages in manufacturing, such as welding or soldering, and so must have a working knowledge of other stages in the process. Precision assemblers often work with cutting-edge technology and should be interested in mechanical systems and industrial processes. These positions are often filled by lower-level factory employees who demonstrate an aptitude for complex work.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. The daily duties of precision assemblers vary according to the type of goods they produce and the materials with which they work. Some work on electrical systems and components that make radio and computer equipment; these workers spend most of their day fitting small parts into finished products, using specialized instruments, or working on the components themselves. Others work on machines such as turbines and engines used in aerospace and automotive manufacturing. Precision assemblers build the mechanical components and systems used in oil and natural gas production, food packaging, industrial agriculture, and paper and printing. They may be responsible for producing specific parts of automobiles or aircraft, such as landing gear or wing sections, and work with large, heavy materials and components. Precision assemblers who work with weapons systems, such as missiles and drone aircraft, may work in or interact directly with a military environment.
Some experienced precision assemblers work directly with engineers and technicians to design and implement specific instructions or create test patterns and prototypes. They may supervise the work of other assemblers on a project, or they may be involved in product development and advise engineers about how to best use a production facility. Assemblers need to be able to read blueprints and computer-generated instructions and to use precision tools.
Machine Builders (600.281-022). Machine builders analyze blueprint assembly instructions and manuals to construct, assemble, or rebuild engines and turbines.
Aircraft Power Plant Assemblers (806.381-022). Aircraft power plant assemblers analyze blueprints and other materials to put together and install parts of airplanes such as wings or landing gear.
Electronics Assemblers (726.684-018). Electronics assemblers assemble electronic equipment, such as missile control systems, radio and test equipment, and computers.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Precision assemblers work in a variety of environments, depending on the type of product they are assembling. Virtually all work is performed indoors in a factory or industrial plant facility. Assemblers may need to stand and maintain focus for long periods of time. They generally work forty hours per week, and several daily shifts are common.
Plant Environment. Plants may be noisy, so assemblers may need to use safety equipment to reduce damage to hearing. These facilities can be hot and cramped. Workers may run the risk of coming into contact with industrial chemicals.
Human Environment. Precision assemblers must be comfortable following detailed directions exactly while working with minimal supervision. They tend to be experienced employees and, as such, may mentor and train colleagues. They may work with engineers and technicians to refine or test designs, so they should be comfortable in a collaborative environment.
Technological Environment. Precision assemblers must be able to read blueprints and computer-generated designs and instructions. They should be familiar with all production stages of the item or system they are producing, which may mean a working knowledge of highly advanced robotic assemblers. They use highly calibrated tools and must be able to work with industrial-management software.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Students interested in a career as a precision assembler should have a strong background in mechanics, math, and shop and a strong interest in industrial production. Drafting, model-making, and computer science are also useful skills. Students may wish to take courses relevant to the specific goods they wish to produce, such as radio and computer technology or automotive repair.
Postsecondary. Some precision engineers require more advanced training than others. For example, an electronics assembler may be required to have a technical degree or equivalent military training. Most technical colleges offer degrees that are relevant to precision assemblers, from automotive technology to electrical systems training.
Related Occupations
− Electromechanical Equipment Assembler
− Metal/Plastic Working Machine Operator
Bibliography
"Assemblers and Fabricators." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/production/assemblers-and-fabricators.htm. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.
"Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023 51-2090 Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators." US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes512090.htm. Accessed 26 Aug. 2024.