A trained professional who installs electrical systems in various industrial applications is known as an electrical assembler. To create a working electrical system, this may entail running wires, cutting wire sheaths, soldering, working with small connectors and other small parts, and reading blueprints or schematics. An electrical assembler must complete a high school education or an equivalent qualification, gaining basic math, reading, and communication skills in the process. The majority of the skills required of an assembler can be learned on the job, but it is recommended that the assembler attend a trade school or vocational school to obtain the necessary credentials and licenses.
An electrical assembler’s specific responsibilities vary depending on the industry in which he or she works. In some industries, such as aerospace, the electrical assembler will most likely be required to undergo extensive on-the-job training in order to learn as much as possible about aircraft electrical systems. He or she could end up installing electronics on new planes, repairing or replacing electronic systems on older planes, or even installing electrical systems in missiles and other weapons. Many of the systems to be installed will interact with one another, so the assembler will need to know how they all work together.
A thorough understanding of how electricity works is also required of the electrical assembler. To troubleshoot electrical systems, the assembler will use various tools to test the conductivity of materials, and he or she will need to be able to interpret the results to ensure the safety of all workers and the efficiency of the electrical system. On a well-established system, diagnostic tools are usually the first tools used an assembler. To make the system work, wires may need to be cut, soldering may be required, and other components may need to be installed or changed.
Electrical assemblers may work on an assembly line or as part of a team in manufacturing. Automobile manufacturers, for example, may employ a number of assemblers to deal with the complexities of electrical systems in automobiles and heavy machinery. Much of the work can be automated and completed computers, but electrical work may require the attention of a human assembler who can test the systems, install small components, run wires, and install critical system components. In such situations, the electrical assembler is more likely to work as part of a team rather than alone.