A mechanical assembler is a professional who assembles or fabricates mechanical parts, pieces or products. In most cases, this occupation is with a manufacturing organization that produces parts or products that can range from small items to cars and aircraft. Work is often performed in a team environment with other assemblers and quality control professionals.
Education
Most employers require a high school diploma or GED for this occupation. This occupation may require some technical or vocational training depending on the type of product being manufactured, but most employers provide on-the-job training.
Qualifications
These professionals are required to follow directions carefully, so basic reading skills are required to perform the job. Other attributes to be successful as a mechanical assembler include basic technical knowledge, manual dexterity, good eyesight, as well as the ability to perform repetitive tasks.
Responsibilities
A mechanical assembler uses a variety of tools and equipment to assemble units according to required specifications in a specific area of a production line. This involves reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches and written instructions to assemble the parts or products. To ensure quality, an assembler also looks for faulty components during the assembly process and may be required to test assembled parts or products to ensure functionality.
Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expected a 11.8 percent decline for these occupations between 2018 and 2028. The decline was expected due to increased productivity through automation, and the overall decline in manufacturing, as well as some manufacturers moving their assembly functions to other countries to cut costs.
Salary
Salary can vary for these occupations depending on the type of goods being manufactured and the skills required to assemble different mechanical products. The BLS listed a national average salary of $34,970 per year for these occupations in May 2020.
