Assembler - Light Industry

Also known as:

Factory Assembly Worker

Introduction

Light industry assemblers often work in the electrical, electronic and information technology industries. They fit parts or components together to form completed products or parts of other products.

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Work Activities

Assemblers fit parts together to form completed products or parts of other products. Items might include, for example, furniture, televisions, cars or washing machines.

Assemblers usually work on a conveyor system in a factory where they add a part or parts to the item as it goes past them. Sub-assemblies (parts of products) may go to other factories for fitting into completed products.

Assemblers often do one particular task. The tasks are usually simple and repetitive but sometimes it may be necessary to follow sets of instructions and diagrams.

Assemblers may use tools such as screwdrivers, pliers and tweezers. Assembly of some electronic circuitry may involve the use of soldering irons.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You will need patience and good practical skills. You will need to work quickly and accurately and have a good eye for detail. You might also need to follow instructions or diagrams.

You might need good close eyesight. Your colour vision may be tested if the tasks involve electrical wiring.

You must be able to concentrate for long periods of time. The work can be repetitive and you may stand or sit at a bench for most of the day.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Light industry assemblers earn in the range of £210 - £240 a week, rising to £270 - £330. Higher earners can make around £400 a week.

Assemblers usually work 37-40 hours, Monday to Friday. Shift work and early morning starts may be required. Part-time work and overtime may be available.

Employers throughout the UK are manufacturers (mainly in the electrical and electronics industry) and companies that supply parts and assemblies to them.

Opportunities are continuing to decline as more assembly processes are automated and as firms increasingly buy in assembled units from overseas.

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Adult Opportunities

It is 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.

Skills and abilities gained in or practical or technical work using your hands are useful for people wanting to become assemblers.

• 5% of people in occupations such as assembler work part-time.
• 8% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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