PCB Assembler

A printed circuit board (PCB) assembler works to build electronic components onto printed circuit boards (PCB) to prepare the boards for use. Your responsibilities in this career are to read wiring diagrams, follow sample boards, select electrical components, and finalize the boards using hand tools.

Inserting wires, using a heat gun, applying sealer, installing heat sinks, sockets, and faceplates, and press-fitting component leads onto the board are some of the duties you have as a circuit board assembler. You work with transistors, capacitors, integrated circuits, relays, and resistors.

What does a PCB Assembler do?

A PCB (printed circuit board) assembler is either an individual or business tasked with building electrical products onto a PCB. In other words, their job is to carry out the process of PCB assembly, primarily by connecting the electronic device to the board via the designated wiring.

The PCB assembly (PCBA) process requires high-tech machines, powered hand tools, and manual labor, all toward the goal of soldering a given electronic device onto its designated PCB. Throughout the process, you might enact a few quality control operations, such as:

Solder paste inspection (SPI)
Automated optical inspection (AOI)
In-circuit testing (ICT)

PCB assemblers are crucial to assuring the functionality of various electronics across numerous industries. You may need to master several methods to progress in your career as an assembler, so study your desired industry to learn more about the specific experience required for your prospective career.

PCB Knowledge

Have essential PCB knowledge about the terminologies that comprise a PCB, the tools and technology used to create these boards and basic design principles.
Problem Solving Skills

PCB assemblers will troubleshoot any issues with designs or production. They also quickly and effectively detect malfunctions with machinery and inform managers or upper-level staff of issues as they arise.

Machine Operation Knowledge

PCB assemblers operate design machinery and modify machinery settings as needed to meet design specifications. They must also operate power tools and other heavy machinery while following strict safety guideline.
Detail Oriented

PCB assemblers receive, read, and understand complex design specifications. Additionally, they must perform maintenance tasks to maintain equipment in good condition.

Fabricators

Fabricators, such as ironworkers, often assemble large pieces of metal or sheet work, and they need to be able to use welding equipment.

Machine Operator

Machinists operate tools and mechanisms that create different parts, which are then put together by Assemblers.

Quality Control Inspector

At the end of an assembly line, quality control inspectors examine each product to ensure that it meets the guidelines laid out in company blueprints.

Salary

PCB assemblers earn an average yearly salary of $30,000.

Starting-level

Starting-level PCB assembler earnings begin at:

$12 per hour

$24,000 per year

Senior-level

Senior-level PCB assembler earnings begin at:

$16 per hour

$33,000 per year

Mid-level

Mid-level PCB assembler earnings begin at:

$15 per hour

$30,373 per year

Top-level

Top-level PCB assembler earnings begin at:

$17 per hour

$36,000 per year

Junior-level

Junior-level PCB assembler earnings begin at:

$13 per hour

$27,000 per year

These are 2021 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.

PCB assemblers most often work in the manufacturing and tech industries and come from all sorts of professional backgrounds, such as machine operators. They typically work a regular 40-hour week, although overtime may be required to meet deadlines.

PCB assemblers may work on teams with designers, engineers, and technicians, or they may work independently. PCB assemblers must be able to work well under pressure and meet deadlines while ensuring that the quality of their work is high.

How to Become a PCB Assembler?

To become a PCB assembler, you need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Further education in high-tech manufacturing can prepare you for working on complex printed circuit boards (PCB), and you earn a certificate or associate degree. You learn component identification, inspection techniques, assembly of a printed circuit board, and soldering skills.

In addition to educational qualifications, you must have manual dexterity and excellent eye-hand coordination, as well as experience reading blueprints. You work with color-coded wires, meaning color deficiencies may hinder your performance.

Typical Qualifications:

0-6 years of experience, depending on previous education and current skills
Experience working with computer-aided drafting (CAD) software
Ability to read and interpret drawings and designs
Proven knowledge and experience using drafting tools and machinery
Safety-conscious with an extreme respect for established safety guidelines and rules
Experience with or willingness to learn production tools and methods

Similar Careers

Assembly Operator

Assembly operators are responsible for building the products that we use every day. They take parts from various suppliers and assemble them into a finished product, often under strict quality control standards.

Electronic Assembler

An electronic assembler works behind the scenes to bring together the pieces of equipment we use every day, such as computers, electronic devices, toys, and engines.

PCB Designer

A PCB designer is a technical professional who uses computer software programs to design the layout for circuit boards and collaborates with engineers to create 3D models of circuit boards.

Sources:

Candorind.com, 2022 | Canva.com, 2022 | Glassdoor.com, 2022 | Indeed.com, 2022 | Zippia.com, 2022 | Ziprecruiter.com, 2022

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