What does an Electronic Assembler do?

Opening up the inside of a home computer provides a sense of the complexity of this type of work. A computer motherboard, for example, is a small circuit board that consists of dozens and dozens of individual components: resisters, transistors, wires, connectors, CPU sockets, battery connectors, and power connectors, just to mention a few.

All of these tiny parts need to be fixed to the board and connected in order for the computer to function. Many large manufacturers outsource things like circuit boards to companies in China and India. However, these pre-assembled components still need to be put together manually.

With new technological advancements requiring smaller and smaller micro electronics, mass production technology has become more automated. Changes in technology have transformed the way electronic equipment is made, and modern manufacturing systems use robots, programmable motion-control devices, sensing technologies, and computers.

Electronic assemblers most often work as part of an assembly line or production facility. They assemble and fabricate electronic products, meeting very precise specifications. Many different tools are used in the process, from hand-operated tools such as soldering guns and small power tools, to large automatic and semi-automatic machines.

The work ranges from fairly basic and easy assembly to complicated tasks that require advanced knowledge and experience. Assemblers often work with the designers and engineers in product development, sometimes assisting with prototypes and building test products. For more complicated tasks, being able to read and comprehend detailed blueprints and schematics is necessary.

Operate Machinery

Electronic assemblers operate design machinery and modify machinery settings as needed to meet design specifications. They also operate power tools and other heavy machinery while following strict safety guidelines. They will assemble various parts and products based on physical and digital designs.

Soldering Knowledge

Parts of the job involve manually placing and soldering resistors, diodes, capacitors, transistors, wires, and integrated circuits onto printed circuit boards.

Quality Control

Quality checks are conducted to identify faulty components and replace them at the source. Problems need to be fixed as early as possible in the stream, before large-scale manufacturing of defective products can occur.

Communication Skills

Electronic assemblers collaborate with team members to ensure proper delineation of production roles. Communicate with engineers and design staff to ensure consistency and troubleshoot any issues with designs or production.

How much does an Electronic Assembler make?

The average Electronic Assembler salary in the United States is $38,600, but the salary range typically falls between $34,964 and $43,240. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

What does the workplace for an Electronic Assembler look like?

Electronic assemblers generally work for assembly or manufacturing plants. Shift work is common, since manufacturing is done around the clock. Most plants are located in large urban centers where there is good access to parts, services, and customers.

As an electronic assembler, your primary duties are to assemble electronic parts, such as circuit boards, mount them into larger assemblies or casings, ensure the proper soldering and installation of electric wiring, and test or troubleshoot equipment before it is put into or returned to service.

Electronic assemblers tend to work on assembly lines and within manufacturing settings. You will usually collaborate with other fabricators and engineers to ensure that devices are assembled according to specifications.

How to become an Electronic Assembler?

A high school diploma is required for this position, and on-the-job training is typically provided. Even though there are no standard educational requirements for this position, basic knowledge of electronics and some experience working with electrical components is definitely an asset.

Skilled assembly jobs may require technical education and certification, such as an associate degree in electronics engineering technology. Some workers may advance to supervisory positions, or as equipment testers and inspectors. This may involve specialized training in electronic theory, testing techniques, and testing equipment.

To succeed in electronic assembler careers it is a good idea to earn popular professional certifications among electronic assemblers like, IPC Certification Using IPC-7711 and IPC 7721, Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma), or Industrial Electronics (IND).