Electronics/Electrical Assembler

Also known as:

Assembler, Electronics/Electrical

Introduction

Electronics/electrical assemblers put together electronic equipment either by hand or using simple tools like screwdrivers and pliers. For example, they may assemble domestic electrical appliances or equipment that is used in industry and technology.

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Work Activities

Electronics/electrical assemblers work on a wide range of equipment. For example, they may insert microchips into a printed circuit board that will form part of a television set or the control program element of a washing machine. They may wind coils for electrical motors or transformers or insert them with other components into kitchen blenders, hair dryers or windscreen wipers.

Electronics/electrical assemblers usually work in factories. There are two main types of work: mass production or batch production.

In mass production, assemblers usually work on an assembly line, working at the same speed as everyone else in the line. They keep the parts they need near their work. They sit near a moving conveyor belt that carries the items to be worked on.

For example, the belt may carry the main board for a television set. As each board passes in front of them, the assembler inserts a particular number of components into the correct positions. The board then moves on to the next assembler who adds another set of components.

In batch production, assemblers usually work at a bench. A supervisor gives the assembler a number of components and special instructions, which may include a parts list and a diagram or technical drawing.

Assemblers then work to finish the batch within a target time. They may stand up to work on larger products or components. In batch work, assemblers may put together radar or broadcasting equipment, or industrial machinery.

Depending on the type of equipment being assembled, this work can either be quite simple and repetitive or more complex and time-consuming.

Assemblers may wear overalls, hair covering, gloves and safety glasses. Electronics factories are very clean and dust free to avoid damaging the components. Assemblers may wear an earthed wrist or ankle band to eliminate any static electricity.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

To be an electronics/electrical assembler, you'll need agile fingers for handling small components and hand tools. You must be able to work quickly, neatly and accurately.

You need to be patient and able to cope with repetitive work.

You will need good literacy and number skills to follow wiring diagrams and written instructions. You must have normal colour vision to work with colour-coded components and wires.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Electronics/electrical assemblers earn £230 - £260 a week, rising to £320 - £390 a week. Higher earners can make around £430 a week.

Electronic/electrical assemblers typically work a 39-hour week, Monday to Friday. Shift work and early morning starts may be required. Part-time work and overtime may be available.

Employers include large companies that manufacture finished products with an electrical or electronics content, and companies that supply electronics and electrical components and assemblies to them.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Modern Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

• 8% of electronics/electrical assemblers work part-time.
• 8% have flexible hours.
• 6% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy.