An assembly technician’s primary responsibility is to keep the assembly line running. His job is to observe what is going on with the line and make necessary adjustments so that everything runs smoothly. He may also be responsible for training new line workers, transporting materials, and making suggestions to management.
The assembly technician must first conduct basic inspections and gather data before determining what needs to be done on the line. This necessitates physically entering the assembly area and inspecting individual machines and their components. It also entails collecting and analyzing computer-generated readings related to machine operation, as well as inspecting gauges, dials, and other similar equipment. The technician looks for data readings that are outside of the acceptable range, physical flaws or problems with the machines, and whether they have what they need to run, such as enough oil or an electrical connection. During the inspection, the assembly technician pays close attention to determine where problems are present and how serious they are.
When the technician receives the inspection results, he makes any necessary adjustments to the assembly line equipment. It’s sometimes as easy as turning a dial. Other times, the technician must supervise a lengthy physical adjustment that may necessitate the use of saws, wrenches, presses, testing lights, and other tools. An assembly technician can also make changes to the line using computer software programs to enter specific commands.
Assembly technicians consult line equipment documentation to determine how to approach line issues. He might, for example, look at charts or schematics. This necessitates the technician’s ability to read technical material and translate it into a workable plan of action.
Because making adjustments to the line can slow or even stop production, the assembly technician collaborates with the line operator and other managers to devise a plan for making the changes. With the help of these professionals, he determines how and when the adjustments will be made. He also determines who will complete work that he is unable to complete due to time constraints or a lack of specific technical expertise.
It’s possible that an assembly technician won’t always have what he needs to repair the line in the assembly area. Alternatively, he may need to remove any defective parts or machines from the assembly area after the repairs are completed. As a result, he may be responsible for transporting materials from one location to another, often using a forklift.
The technician is in charge of keeping the assembly area clean while he works. This not only helps to keep the line looking as nice as possible, but it also helps to improve the safety of workers in the assembly area. A safe assembly area ensures that production can continue and that the company is not exposed to legal action.
When a technician is performing his general duties, he may notice areas where he can improve. If this occurs, the company anticipates the technician speaking up and bringing the idea to management’s attention. The reason for this is that improvements lead to higher production, which means more revenue and profit.
Because he is familiar with the entire line, as well as the machines and other equipment on it, an assembly technician may be in charge of training line workers. He may also train other technicians to assist or replace the assembly technician after he retires. The amount of training required the technician is determined the type of line and the precise location on the line.