Machine Assembler

Your Fit

Income

$52K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-18.9%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Machine Assembler?

Machine Assemblers are skilled technicians who assemble or fabricate mechanical parts, pieces, or products using a variety of tools and equipment according to required specifications in a manufacturing organization.

Sample job titles:

Assembler, Assembly Line Worker, Engine Assembler, Machine Assembler

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Machine Assembler.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Machine Assembler earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$43K per year	$52K per year	$70K per year	$74K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $3.04K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Machine Assembler do?

Work environment

Machine Assemblers typically work in manufacturing plants. They may work on assembly lines or at individual workstations, handling tasks that involve manual dexterity and the use of tools, machines, and their hands. The environment is often fast-paced and requires adherence to safety standards.

Quick task list

Reads and interprets blueprints and assembly instructions.
Aligns, fits, and assembles parts to build complete units.
Inspects and tests assembled products for functionality and quality.
Operates tools and machinery to fabricate parts and components.
Maintains a clean and safe work environment.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Electronic Assembly: Focusing on assembling electronic components and systems.
Automotive Assembly: Specializing in the assembly of automotive parts and vehicles.
Aerospace Assembly: Concentrating on the construction of aircraft and spacecraft components.

Description

Machine Assemblers play a crucial role in the manufacturing sector. Their primary responsibility is to assemble parts and pieces of machinery or equipment, ensuring that these components meet quality and specification standards. They need to be proficient in reading and understanding complex blueprints and diagrams and using a variety of tools and machines.

Their work demands precision and attention to detail, as they often deal with small, intricate parts. Machine Assemblers need to have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. Beyond technical skills, they must be able to work effectively in a team, as the assembly process often involves collaboration with other technicians.

Safety is paramount in this role, as assemblers often work with heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials. They must be knowledgeable about safety protocols and consistently adhere to them to ensure a safe work environment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The tangible results of building and assembling mechanical components.
Opportunities for problem-solving and applying technical skills.
Working as part of a team towards a common goal.

You might make a good Machine Assembler if you are...

Detail-oriented and precise in your work.
Skilled at working with your hands and using tools.
Interested in mechanics and how things work.
Able to follow instructions and blueprints accurately.
A team player who enjoys collaborative environments.

Pros:

Active and hands-on work environment that can be satisfying for those who enjoy practical, physical tasks.
Opportunity to work in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, offering diverse career paths.
Skill development in mechanical systems can open doors to advancement into more specialized technical roles.
The role often provides clear tasks and objectives, leading to a sense of accomplishment upon completion of projects.

Cons:

The work can be physically demanding, often requiring standing for long periods and handling heavy machinery parts.
Potential exposure to hazards associated with machinery, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.
The job may involve repetitive tasks, which can be monotonous for some individuals.
Depending on the industry, there might be a need for shift work, including evenings and weekends.

How to become a Machine Assembler

Typical education

Usually, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with some on-the-job training. Additional technical training or certification can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in mechanics, metalwork, or woodworking to gain practical skills.
Physics and Mathematics to understand the principles behind machine operation and assembly.
Technical drawing or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) courses to develop an understanding of mechanical blueprints.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining robotics or engineering clubs to get hands-on experience with assembling machines.
Participating in maker fairs or DIY projects that involve building or repairing mechanical devices.
Volunteering or interning in local manufacturing companies or automotive repair shops.

Preparation after high school

Enrolling in a technical or vocational school with programs in machine technology, mechanical engineering technology, or a related field.
Seeking apprenticeships in machine assembly or manufacturing to gain on-the-job training.
Obtaining certifications in specialized areas like welding, hydraulics, or pneumatics to enhance job prospects.
Staying informed about the latest technology in machinery and manufacturing processes.

More resources

National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) - Offers skills standards and credentials for precision manufacturing trades.
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) - Provides a wealth of resources, including educational programs and certifications for manufacturing professionals.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - Offers resources and training opportunities for mechanical engineers and technicians.
Manufacturing Institute - Focuses on education, training, and workforce development in the manufacturing industry.

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