Job description
Machine assemblers use tools and machines to build, assemble and reconstruct a variety of industrial products, including engines, turbines, aircraft and other equipment utilised in paper manufacturing, construction or textiles industries. They put together finished products and the pieces that go inside every item, requiring extensive reading of instructions, manuals and blueprints provided by the manufacturer.
Duties
- Study assembly instructions, specification manuals and operational methods to build operations
- Review the parts lists, subassemblies, tools and materials to ensure correct construction
- Lay out the parts and position them correctly by using manufacturer templates
- Use different hand tools and machines to assemble components
- Resolve assembly issues by modifying dimensions to meet specifications, and make notes
- Lubricate parts when necessary to ensure proper installation
- Do quality control inspections and ensure that the schematics and blueprints were followed
- Confirm specifications by measuring the completed products
- Maintain equipment and perform preventive maintenance for good condition for future use
- Document and submit paperwork if anything is wrong with the components
- Comply with workplace procedures, regulations and rules to ensure a safe workplace
- Collaborate with product designers and engineers in the development stage
- Test completed products to verify correct functioning and compliance to specifications
- Submit orders for needed supplies, and verify receipts upon delivery
Skills and qualities
Job outlook
Projected growth
-17%
New jobs
-6.5k
Automation risk
82%
Career progression
Machine assemblers will need to complete several years of work experience before being considered for a promotion. Most machine assemblers will climb the ranks by advancing to the position of supervisor or manager. With the right education and sufficient productivity levels, some machine assemblers could get transferred to a more white-collar position.
Working conditions
Average hours
40h/ week
Typical schedule
Full Time
Standard business hours
As a machine assembler, you will complete a typical 40-hour workweek, with some opportunity for overtime in evenings or on weekends. Most machine assemblers work in manufacturing facilities, requiring enough physical stamina to endure long periods of standing or sitting.
Salary
Bottom 10%
$29k
Median
$44k
Top 10%
$63k
Annual salary estimates are based on percentile wage data collected through the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey of US workers.
Qualifications and training
Education level
High school
On-the-job training
Study time
6 months
To become a machine assembler, you will typically only need a high school diploma. However, in an industry that has become fiercely competitive with foreign markets and automation, some employers will hire candidates with experience or require employees to obtain additional training for advanced assembly work. Of course, preference will be given to applicants who possess an education – diploma or coursework – in subjects related to engineering, technology or physics.
Last Updated: Wednesday, November 2, 2022
