- An electronics assembly technician assembles parts for circuit boards, circuit breakers, switches and other electronic equipment. He may do one standard job continually or may perform different tasks according to company work orders and drawings, such as technical illustrations and mechanical blueprints. Some of the work requires using hand and power tools. Electronics assembly personnel sometimes do soldering and crimping tasks. Some electronic assemblers do finished assembly work, such as applying sealant, touching up paint, wrapping parts and packaging for shipment.
- Training for these positions is offered in various options, depending on the school. Usually a person will complete a course of study at a technical school or community college with a half-time schedule for one semester, or 12 hours a week for two semesters. The two-semester course typically is offered at night. Some schools offer self-paced options where the student can successfully exit the program whenever he masters the skills. This is particularly useful for somebody with experience in certain areas, such as soldering.
- A full electronics assembly training course of study at a vocational school teaches connecting and soldering electronic components, color coding, schematic and blueprint reading, harnessing and wire wrapping. The student learns the use of various tools and how to identify electronic components, as well as learning safety procedures and quality standards. Coursework includes lessons on circuit boards, circuit diagrams, resistors, capacitors, voltage regulators, solid state components, diodes, rectifiers and transistors. They may learn to use oscilloscopes, multi-meters, calipers and logic probes. Some companies provide on-the-job training for entry-level positions and an employee can learn more complex techniques over time.
- Because these technicians work with tiny components, they must have excellent manual dexterity and be able to handle extremely detailed work. Some technicians sit most of the time while others stand for many hours. Working conditions are clean, comfortable and climate controlled. Work is usually full-time and opportunities are available on different shifts. Some companies hire electronic assembly technicians on a temporary-to-hire basis.
- Electronics assembly is an entry-level position, with median salary as of 2008 about $27,000 annually. Many students complete their initial training and then continue their education while working. With further education, advancement opportunities are available to become an electronics technician or electromechanical assembly technician.
