Assembly Worker

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Assemble essential products that meet global demands.

Utilise your skills to assemble raw materials into finished goods. As an assembly worker, you’ll engage in hands-on tasks with cutting-edge tools and machinery, applying your technical know-how and keen attention to detail to streamline production processes and ensure top-quality results.

As an assembly worker you will provide a vital role, responsible for putting together components to create finished products, ensuring they meet quality and efficiency standards. You will follow detailed instructions and use various tools and machinery to piece together components, creating finished products.

Your close attention to detail and exceptional commitment to safety will see you work across a range of products in manufacturing including, automotive parts, electronics, household appliances, furniture, machinery and equipment, and more.

Assembly workers are focused individuals who recognise the importance of their contribution within a sequence of team members, and therefore must have great communication and collaboration skills. Assembly workers play a crucial role in ensuring that products are built efficiently and to specification, contributing to the overall success of the manufacturing process.

Your role may include duties as follows:

  1. Understanding detailed diagrams and instructions to ensure accurate assembly.
  2. Operating hand tools, power tools, and machinery to fit parts together securely.
  3. Inspecting components and assembled products for defects and ensuring they meet quality standards.
  4. Adhering to safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
  5. Working alongside other assembly workers and supervisors to meet production goals.

Becoming an assembly worker in manufacturing typically doesn’t require formal qualifications to start, but having relevant skills and certifications can significantly enhance job prospects and career progression. On-the-job training is common in this field. Here are some steps to become an assembly worker:

  1. Complete Year 12 or equivalent education, with a focus on maths and technical subjects
  2. Consider completing a Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology or Certificate II in Engineering Pathways
  3. Obtain relevant certifications (e.g., forklift)
  4. Gain entry-level experience in manufacturing or production environments
  5. Apply for assembly worker positions and be prepared for on-the-job training
Also Known As:
  • Assembler
  • Production Assembler
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a assembly worker include:

  • Attention to detail
  • Manual dexterity
  • Problem solving
  • Safety awareness
  • Technical proficiency
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a assembly worker include:

  • Reliable
  • Quality-focused
  • Safety-conscious
  • Adaptable
  • Physical stamina
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Engineering Skills
  • Furnishing Skills
  • Industrial Technology Skills
  • Science in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for an Assembly Worker can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$45,000
Median
$55,000
High
$65,000

Vocational education and training can provide valuable skills and knowledge for a career as an assembly worker in manufacturing. Here are some relevant qualifications:

  • Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422)
  • Certificate II in Engineering – Production Technology (MEM20219)
  • Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology (MSM20216)
  • Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways (MSF20522)

Qualifications that may support progression in this role include:

  • Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Machining) (MEM30219)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting) (MEM30219)
  • Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Fitting/machining) (MEM30219)

While university education is not typically required for Assembly Worker positions, it can be beneficial for career advancement into management or specialised technical roles within manufacturing.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Operations Manager
Operations Manager

As an Operations Manager in manufacturing, you’ll be at the helm of production processes, aligning resources, technology, and personnel to achieve operational excellence.

– Up to $135,000 salary

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Production Planner
Production Planner

Production Planners are the strategic minds behind manufacturing operations, ensuring that production processes run smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule.

– Up to $65,000 salary

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Production Leader (Food and Beverage)
Production Leader (Food and Beverage)

Production Leaders in the Food and Beverage sector play a crucial role in overseeing the daily operations of manufacturing facilities.

– Up to $90,000 salary

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Quality Assurance Officer
Quality Assurance Officer

Quality Assurance Officers in manufacturing are the custodians of product integrity and operational excellence.

– Up to $90,000 salary

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Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry
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