How to Be Electrical Assembler - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 29, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Electrical Assembler is a key role in the manufacturing of electrical goods. Their job is to read and interpret electrical schematics, then assemble the components into finished products. This requires an attention to detail and an understanding of the electrical components and how they fit together.

If the Electrical Assembler does not complete the job correctly, it can lead to costly repairs, delays in production and even product recalls. As such, it is important that all Electrical Assemblers have a solid understanding of the relevant safety regulations, industry standards and electrical principles to ensure that the finished product meets all quality standards.

Steps How to Become

Start by earning a high school diploma or GED. Most employers prefer to hire electrical assemblers with at least a high school education.
Consider enrolling in a vocational program or technical college to obtain a certificate in electrical assembly. This will give you an edge over other candidates who are applying for the same job.
Obtain relevant work experience. You may want to start off by working as an apprentice or volunteer in an electrical assembly setting. This will give you hands-on experience and help you develop the skills necessary to become an electrical assembler.
Consider obtaining certification from a professional organization such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). This certification is widely recognized in the industry and will demonstrate your knowledge and skills in electrical assembly.
Search for job openings that match your qualifications. Make sure to include an updated resume and portfolio of your past work experience when applying for the job.
Complete any additional training that may be required by the employer. Once hired, you may need to undergo on-the-job training to learn the specific procedures and guidelines of the company.

Electrical Assemblers must possess a wide range of skills and capabilities in order to effectively complete their job. These skills include knowledge of wiring, electrical theory, electronics, and the ability to read blueprints. In addition, they must have the ability to use various tools such as soldering irons, multi-meters, crimpers, and wire strippers.

Without these skills, electrical assemblers would not be able to accurately install wiring, components, and cables for electrical products. Furthermore, failure to adhere to safety protocols when assembling can lead to hazards such as electric shocks and even fires. Thus, it is imperative that electrical assemblers are properly trained and competent in their craft in order to ensure the safety of the products they are creating.

You may want to check Electrical Design Engineer, Electrical Commissioning Engineer, and Electrical Inspector/Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Read and interpret detailed electrical schematics, drawings, and specifications.
Assemble electrical components such as switches, lights, circuit boards, and wiring harnesses.
Utilize hand tools and powered equipment to assemble and install parts.
Use testing equipment to verify that electrical systems meet safety and performance criteria.
Troubleshoot electrical issues and coordinate repairs with other team members.
Maintain a clean and organized work area.
Document product assembly processes and results.
Monitor and report on inventory levels of required supplies and materials.
Inspect finished products to ensure quality control standards are met.
Prepare reports of all completed work activities.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Good hand-eye coordination
Ability to understand and follow detailed instructions
Knowledge of wiring diagrams and schematics
Ability to use hand tools such as drills and screwdrivers
Knowledge of electrical circuits and components
Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and specifications
Good problem solving and troubleshooting skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to work accurately and neatly
Ability to stand for long periods of time
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Being an electrical assembler requires a strong attention to detail and a thorough knowledge of electrical systems. It is a critical role that requires technical skills, problem solving abilities, and multitasking capabilities. Having a thorough understanding of electrical schematics, component selection, and assembly procedures are essential for this role.

Working knowledge of various tools such as soldering irons and multimeter is also important. Good hand-eye coordination and the ability to read and interpret technical drawings are other important skills that are beneficial for this job. an electrical assembler should have strong communication skills in order to effectively interact with other members of the team.

This will ensure that any problems that arise during assembly can be addressed promptly and accurately. By having these skills, an electrical assembler can be a valuable asset to any team.

Electrical Service Technician, Electrical Automation Engineer, and Electrical Quality Inspector are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in electrical assembly?
What kind of tools are you familiar with for electrical assembly?
How comfortable are you troubleshooting and repairing electrical components?
How do you handle customer complaints or service requests?
What safety protocols do you follow when performing electrical assembly?
Describe a situation where you had to assemble an electrical component quickly and accurately.
What methods do you use to ensure accuracy when building or repairing electrical components?
How do you stay updated on the latest electrical assembly techniques and tools?
Tell me about your experience with wiring diagrams and schematics.
What challenges have you faced in electrical assembly, and how did you resolve them?

Common Tools in Industry

Soldering Iron. A handheld tool used to heat up and melt metal, such as solder, to join two pieces of metal together. (eg: Joining two wires together)
Wire Stripper. A tool used to strip insulation from the ends of electrical wires. (eg: Stripping insulation from the ends of two wires to connect them)
Multimeter. An electronic testing device used to measure voltage, current, and resistance. (eg: Testing for a short in a circuit)
Crimping Tool. A tool used to crimp electrical terminals or connectors to a wire. (eg: Connecting an electrical terminal to a wire)
Pliers. A hand-held tool used to grip and manipulate materials such as wire. (eg: Cutting and bending a wire)
Heat Gun. A tool used to heat materials such as plastic or plastic-coated wires. (eg: Shrinking electrical insulation on a wire)
Drill. A power tool used to make holes in various materials. (eg: Drilling a hole in a plastic enclosure to mount a switch)

Professional Organizations to Know

IEEE - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Electrical Apparatus Service Association (EASA)
International Society of Automation (ISA)
Association for Technology Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)
Assembly Technology Association (ATA)
Professional Electrical Apparatus Recyclers League (PEARL)
Connected Industries Association (CIA)
International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)

We also have Electrical Project Manager, Electrical Project Superintendent, and Electrical Maintenance Electrician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Soldering - A process that joins two metals together by melting and flowing a filler metal (solder) into the joint.
Wiring - The process of connecting electrical components using conductive materials, such as wires, to complete an electrical circuit.
Crimping - A method of forming a joint between two pieces of metal or other materials by deforming one or both of them to hold them together.
Shielding - The practice of surrounding an electrical component or circuit with a conducting material to protect it from electromagnetic interference.
Connectors - Devices used to join two or more electrical components together.
Circuit Board Assembly - The assembly of electrical and electronic components onto a printed circuit board in order to create a functioning device.
Testing - The process of verifying that an electronic system or component is operating correctly.
Troubleshooting - The process of identifying and resolving issues with an electronic system or component.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become an Electrical Assembler?

Qualifications needed to become an Electrical Assembler include a high school diploma or equivalent, basic electrical knowledge, and experience with hand and power tools.

What types of tasks do Electrical Assemblers perform?

Electrical Assemblers typically perform tasks such as reading and interpreting electrical schematics, wiring and soldering components, making cable harnesses and subassemblies, and testing electrical circuits.

What skills are necessary for an Electrical Assembler?

Skills necessary for an Electrical Assembler include attention to detail, problem-solving, dexterity, mechanical aptitude, the ability to work with small parts, and proficiency in using tools such as soldering irons, crimpers, pliers, and screwdrivers.

What safety precautions should be taken when performing electrical assembly?

Safety precautions for electrical assembly include wearing protective gear such as gloves and eye protection, using only insulated tools and materials, following electrical codes and standards, and properly disposing of hazardous materials.

How much does an Electrical Assembler typically earn?

The average salary for an Electrical Assembler is around $32,000 per year. Salaries may vary depending on experience and location.

Web Resources

Edmonds College: Electrical Assembly Certificate watrcenter.edmonds.edu
Electrical and Electronic Equipment Assembler - City Colleges of www.ccc.edu
Specialist Electrical Assembler - University of Colorado Boulder jobs.colorado.edu