Any mechanical assembler’s primary responsibility is to assemble, or put together, products for a manufacturer. This person assembles things by hand, but sometimes with the help of a machine, as part of the manufacturing process, and is frequently required to read detailed technical instructions or engineering blueprints in order to complete the job successfully. Soldering, welding, gluing, or molding parts together can be done with a variety of tools or machinery. Job details can and do vary depending on the type of product in question as well as the level of expertise required to put it all together and finish. The majority of these workers spend the majority of their time working in production or on assembly lines, and they usually work in shifts that can occur at any time of day or night.
Job Description for Beginners
Most manufacturing processes include a significant amount of assembly. Some of it is extremely technical, as is often the case with large and small electronic and mechanical components. Many simpler products, on the other hand, require some pre-sale assembly. Some of the most basic assembly can be completed by machines or robots, but the majority of the work must be completed by hand. In places where mechanical assembly is prohibitively expensive, hiring people to put things together may be both cheaper and more efficient.
Environments of Production
Mechanical assemblers can work in a variety of manufacturing settings. Work may entail putting together a single part or piece of a product, or it may entail putting something together completely from start to finish. On an assembly line, workers don’t always have a lot of time to devote to each piece, and it’s common for different people to be in charge of different tasks. For example, one person might punch holes, while another lace cording through those holes and attach that cording to a separate piece.
Small parts or products, such as circuit boards or electronic parts, may be assembled by these workers. Electronic mechanical assembler is a term used to describe this type of worker. Some employees also work for companies that manufacture large products, such as automobile or aircraft manufacturers. In these cases, completing the assembly may necessitate the use of heavy machinery or equipment. Larger products may necessitate an assembler following detailed procedures to ensure workplace safety while also making proper use of safety equipment.
Clean-Room Manufacturing Considerations
Assemblers who work in a “clean-room environment” are common in companies that manufacture computers or medical equipment. Manufacturing in a dust-free or germ-free environment is common in clean rooms. This is especially important for pharmaceutical companies and those who work with medical equipment and tools; some food companies also follow these guidelines. Assemblers in these environments are typically required to follow certain procedures, such as washing their hands and wearing specific clothing and masks each time they enter the “clean” room or space, regardless of what they’re making.
Education and training are required.
A high school diploma or its equivalent is usually required for these jobs, and advanced or university-level education isn’t always required or even desirable. This type of work is typically considered menial and entry-level, which means that no specific skills are typically required. Workers, on the other hand, usually need good eyesight, especially if they’re working with small parts. If the job entails lifting or moving heavy objects, a physical examination may be required. Dexterity is important for these professionals because their jobs require them to quickly and accurately put together pieces or parts.
During the first few weeks of employment, most employers provide on-the-job training. Although most employers do not require advanced training, they may conduct dexterity and technical abilities tests on job candidates. A quality control department usually inspects the assembled products to ensure they meet the organization’s standards.
Considerations for a Shift
Employment opportunities for these types of jobs are typically available during day or evening shifts that may or may not correspond to a “traditional” 9-5 job. This is due in large part to the fact that many manufacturing companies operate 24 hours a day. Many employers offer contract-based mechanical assembler jobs because production may increase or decrease depending on demand for the products being manufactured. Contract assembly jobs are only available for a few weeks or months at a time. These jobs can pay more money, but they frequently require prior experience.