Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Junction Assembler Assistant

💰 $18 - $24 per hour

ManufacturingProductionAssemblyEntry-LevelSkilled Labor

🎯 Role Definition

As a Junction Assembler Assistant, you are a crucial member of our manufacturing and production team, responsible for supporting the assembly of complex mechanical and electronic junctions. You will work under the guidance of senior assemblers to perform a variety of tasks, from interpreting technical drawings to performing quality checks on finished products. This role requires a keen eye for detail, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a steadfast commitment to safety and quality standards. You are the foundation of our production line, ensuring that every component is built to perfection and contributes to the overall reliability of our final products.


📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • High School Graduate or GED Holder
  • Trade School Student/Graduate
  • Warehouse Associate or General Laborer

Advancement To:

  • Senior Junction Assembler
  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Production Team Lead or Supervisor

Lateral Moves:

  • Machine Operator
  • Test Technician
  • Materials Handler

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform intricate assembly of electromechanical parts, subassemblies, and junction boxes by following detailed work instructions, blueprints, and engineering schematics.
  • Utilize a variety of hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment, including crimpers, wire strippers, soldering irons, and torque wrenches, to build components to exact specifications.
  • Read and interpret complex wiring diagrams, assembly drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs) to ensure correct component selection and placement.
  • Conduct in-process and final visual inspections of assemblies to identify and correct any defects, such as improper soldering, loose connections, or cosmetic flaws.
  • Perform basic functional testing and continuity checks on completed assemblies and wire harnesses to verify their operational integrity.
  • Measure and cut wires and cables to precise lengths, strip insulation, and attach terminals and connectors as specified in the design documents.
  • Apply potting and encapsulating compounds to protect electronic components from moisture, shock, and vibration, ensuring long-term product reliability.
  • Meticulously document all assembly and inspection activities, recording part numbers, serial numbers, and quality control data in the production tracking system.
  • Follow all established safety protocols and procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), to maintain a safe and secure work environment.
  • Collaborate closely with lead assemblers and production supervisors to troubleshoot assembly issues and contribute to finding effective solutions.
  • Manage and maintain an inventory of components and materials at your workstation, reporting any shortages to the materials handling team.
  • Handle delicate and static-sensitive electronic components in accordance with established Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) prevention procedures.
  • Set up and calibrate assembly fixtures and jigs required for specific production runs to ensure consistency and accuracy.
  • Prepare and label finished assemblies for subsequent production stages or for shipment, ensuring all identification is clear and accurate.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the training and mentoring of new team members, sharing knowledge of assembly techniques and quality standards.
  • Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives and Kaizen events aimed at enhancing production efficiency, quality, and workplace safety.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace by adhering to 5S methodology and company housekeeping standards.
  • Support the engineering team with the assembly of prototypes and first-article builds for new product development projects.
  • Aid in the routine maintenance and cleaning of assembly tools and equipment to ensure they remain in good working order.
  • Provide feedback to supervisors and engineers on potential improvements to assembly processes, work instructions, or product designs.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Blueprint and Schematic Reading: Ability to interpret and work from detailed assembly drawings, wiring diagrams, and technical instructions.
  • Hand & Power Tool Proficiency: Skilled in the use of standard assembly tools such as crimpers, wire strippers, torque drivers, and soldering equipment.
  • Soldering & Desoldering: Competence in performing fine-pitch soldering and rework on printed circuit boards (PCBs) and wire terminations.
  • Measurement and Inspection: Proficient in using measurement tools like calipers, micrometers, and rulers for verification and quality control.
  • Wire and Cable Harnessing: Experience in routing, terminating, and bundling wires and cables into clean, secure harnesses.
  • Component Identification: Strong ability to identify various electronic and mechanical components, including resistors, capacitors, and connectors.
  • Basic Computer Literacy: Ability to use computer systems for data entry, accessing work instructions, and recording production information.

Soft Skills

  • Keen Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for precision and accuracy to ensure all work meets stringent quality standards.
  • Manual Dexterity: Excellent hand-eye coordination and finger dexterity to handle small components and perform intricate tasks.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to identify issues, troubleshoot problems during assembly, and recommend effective solutions.
  • Teamwork and Collaboration: A positive attitude and willingness to work effectively with team members to achieve shared production goals.
  • Time Management: Strong organizational skills to manage workload, prioritize tasks, and meet production deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Verbal Communication: Ability to clearly communicate with supervisors and peers regarding production status, issues, and needs.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate from a vocational or technical school in electronics, manufacturing, or a related discipline.
  • J-STD-001 or IPC-A-610/620 certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electronics Technology
  • Manufacturing Technology
  • Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 0-2 years of experience in a hands-on assembly or manufacturing role.

Preferred:

  • At least 1 year of direct experience in electromechanical assembly, cable harness assembly, or a similar production environment.
  • Prior experience working in an ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified manufacturing facility is highly desirable.