Assembler and Fabricator

Alternate Titles

None.

Brief Job Description

Assemblers and fabricators assemble both finished products and the parts that go into them. They use tools, machines, and their hands to make generators, computers, electronic devices, turbines, and other parts.

Education and Training Level Description

Assemblers and fabricators must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Little to no experience is necessary for entry-level roles, and employers often provide several months of on-the-job training. More advanced assembly work may require special training, an apprenticeship, or an associate’s degree.

Several certifications, while not required, can demonstrate a worker’s competence in different areas. For example, the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International offers training and certificates in fabrication, coil processing, and other related topics. Additionally, assemblers and fabricators working in electrical and electronic assembly can receive certifications related to electronic assembly and soldering from the Association Connecting Electronics Industries.

Job Profile

Assemblers are responsible for putting components together to create a larger product and are needed at many stages in the production of marine energy components. They use tools, machines, and their hands to make generators, computers, electronic devices, turbines, and other marine energy equipment. 

The job of an assembler or fabricator ranges from very simple to very complicated. Assemblers and fabricators must determine how different parts should connect and use tools to adjust, align, and fit components together. More skilled assemblers often read detailed schematics or blueprints to determine how to assemble complex equipment or machines. Entry-level assemblers often assemble components with more simple instructions and assembly techniques. 

The tools and machines assemblers and fabricators use also vary widely by their job and skill set. Assemblers and fabricators working with advanced manufacturing systems use a mix of robots, computers, programmable motion-control devices, and various sensing technologies. Despite these manufacturing advances, many parts still have to be put together and fastened by hand, so other assemblers and fabricators use hand, power, or welding tools to perform their work.

Assemblers and fabricators specialize in many different fields. Electrical coil winders, large machinery and equipment riggers, electronic and electromechanical assemblers, engine and machine assemblers, and structural metal fabricators and fitters are some of the most common types of assemblers and fabricators in the marine energy industry. Learn more about these different specializations from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook: Assemblers and fabricators webpage.

Quality control is important throughout the assembly process, so assemblers and fabricators look for faulty components and mistakes in the assembly process. They help to fix problems so no defective products are made.

It has also become more common to involve assemblers and fabricators in product development. Designers and engineers consult manufacturing workers during the design stage to improve product reliability and manufacturing efficiency. Some experienced assemblers work with designers and engineers to build prototypes or test products.

Assemblers and fabricators typically:

• Read and understand schematics and blueprints
• Use hand tools or machines to assemble marine energy array components
• Conduct quality-control checks
• Work closely with designers and engineers in product development.

Job Skills

Assemblers and fabricators typically need:

• Color vision. Assemblers and fabricators who make electrical and electronic products must be able to distinguish different colors because the wires they work with often are color-coded.
• Dexterity. Assemblers and fabricators must grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts and components that are often very small. As a result, they should have a steady hand and good hand-eye coordination.
• Math skills. As the manufacturing process continues to advance technologically, assemblers and fabricators must know basic math and must be able to use computers.
• Mechanical skills. Modern production systems require assemblers and fabricators to be able to use programmable motion control devices, computers, and robots on the factory floor.
• Physical strength. Assemblers and fabricators must be strong enough to lift heavy components or pieces of machinery. Some assemblers must frequently bend or climb ladders when assembling parts.
• Stamina. Assemblers and fabricators must be able to stand for long periods and perform repetitive work.
• Technical skills. Assemblers and fabricators must be able to understand technical manuals and schematics for a wide range of products and machines to properly manufacture the final product.

More Information, Job Opportunities, etc.

For more information on assemblers and fabricators, see: 

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Assemblers and Fabricators.

Resources

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Assemblers and Fabricators

U.S. Department of Energy Wind Energy Technologies Office's Career Map: Assemblers and Fabricators