Assembly Line Worker

Assembly line workers are responsible for performing one task or a set of tasks in an assembly process. Assembly lines are found in various factories where products being manufactured consist of a number of components assembled to form a complete unit.

Assembly line workers usually stand alongside a conveyor system, perform the necessary task, and allow the product to pass on to the next worker. Most assembly line work is performed by hand, but sometimes tools are used.

Commonly used tools are screwdrivers, pliers, soldering irons and tools specifically designed for certain processes. A typical assembly line task is drilling holes in an item for screws and passing the item on for the next worker to insert the screws.

Personal Requirements

prepared to do repetitive work without getting bored or making mistakes
able to concentrate for long periods of time
able to work as part of a team
able to work to deadlines
prepared to work overtime
manual dexterity
good eye-hand coordination
physically fit, although people with controlled epilepsy and orthopaedic impairments should also be able to do the work

How to Enter

Schooling & School Subjects

Grade 10 Certificate or an NC(V) with literacy and numerical skills at level 4.

What to Study

Experienced workers train learner assembly line workers on the job. Each facet of the assembly process requires specialised training. The processes used in manufacturing and assembly are being automated and so factory workers and assesmbly line workers will need to stay up to date by continually training.

Employment

metal factories
engineering factories
motor industry

Further Information

Further information is obtainable from employers and organisations in the field of engineering and metal manufacturing, as well as the motor industry.

merSETA
95 7th Avenue
Cnr Rustenburg Road,
Melville, Johannesburg, 2109
Tel: 010 219 3000
http://merseta.org.za

Getting Started

try to obtain vacation work in a factory with an assembly line
make an appointment to speak to an assemblyline worker about this type of work
try to find learnership or an look at the options to an apprenticeship in specific trade

Programmes by Study Institutions

Boland TVET College

Premier

Coastal KZN TVET College

Eastcape Midlands TVET College

Ekurhuleni East TVET College

False Bay TVET College

Premier

Ikhala Public TVET

Lovedale Public TVET College

Majuba TVET College

Mthashana TVET College