Assembly Technician Responsibilities

An assembly technician works in warehouses, factories, large manufacturing, or production units. Assembly technician responsibilities include assembling different components or parts of semi-finished or finished goods, so as to deliver a product which is ready to be sold in the stores or other industries. Thus, they play a crucial role in broadening the horizons for any business, especially the production and fabrication industries.

Key Responsibilities of an Assembly Technician

If you are planning to take up a career as an assembly technician, you must be fully aware of the responsibilities that need to be handled by them. Here is a list of the key responsibilities that need to be carried out by them:

To study, read, and understand the schematic diagrams, blueprints, product manuals, process documents, and gather information regarding its parts, fixtures, tools, etc.
To set up, arrange, and operate equipment as per the specifications and instructions from the supervisor
To assemble parts or components to build a whole new product
To contribute in fitting, building, or reconstruction of various parts to ensure smooth process of component amalgamation
To perform regular test and inspection procedures to ensure that the product is formed in accordance with the specifications
To implement and identify needs for improvement by conveying it to the senior personnel, so that quality of products is maintained

In addition to these responsibilities, they are also responsible for the following duties:

To maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment and ensure the compliance with the company's rules and policies
To maintain and update the results related to various tests and inspection procedures conducted regarding the product specification
To make sure that all the parts, labor, and other processes are progressing at the given time
To resolve discrepancies and maintain the integrity of the subordinate staff members by keeping a close eye on their timings and attendance
To discipline, orient, train, and motivate the staff members to achieve highest level of quality. Occasionally, they may need to train new members
To monitor, maintain, and repair the equipment as per the requirements and to ensure good team work by constantly keeping in touch with labor supervisor, quality analyst, and other senior members

Essential Skills

An ideal assembly technician would definitely have a good hand and eye coordination with demonstrated excellent manual dexterity for precision alignment. This is essential, as they will need to handle small parts or chips and also require strength to lift heavy things. A good physique and patience is equally important as they will need to work for hours together doing the same monotonous work. An ability to track fine details visually and discover defects in the inspected parts is another important quality that will be helpful. Ability to read and comprehend schematic engineering drawings and blueprints and ability to learn and master new assembly skills along with strong communication skills is equally important.

Educational Requirements

A high school diploma or a general educational diploma is sufficient for an entry level position in the manufacturing units, which require them to join and attach small parts or items going down in the assembly line. However, those who need to perform complex tasks like electrical or aircraft structures may need more in-depth knowledge. A two or four year degree in the relevant field or an additional certification would be beneficial.

Salary Details

The salary for assembly technicians varies with experience and technical expertise and knowledge. The hourly wages vary in the range of $13 to $18.

Work Hours

They need to stand and work for long hours performing the same task repetitively. Their daily routine includes an eight hour work shift.

Career Prospects

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for assembly technicians is going to decrease. However, those with advanced skills and technician knowledge and expertise surely have got more chances for advancement.

So you are now fully acquainted with the assembly technician responsibilities, skills, and educational background that are required to be eligible to apply for the post of an assembly technician and ensure success in the relevant field.