1st Shift Assembler/Finisher

Job Summary

The Assembler/Finisher is responsible for assembling, grinding, deburring, and finishing fabricated metal parts to meet quality standards and customer specifications. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of fabrication processes, and the ability to safely operate finishing tools and equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assemble fabricated components according to work instructions, blueprints, or shop drawings.
• Perform grinding, sanding, deburring, and polishing of metal parts to remove sharp edges, weld splatter, or surface imperfections.
• Inspect parts for defects, correct assembly, and quality conformance.
• Use hand tools, power tools, and finishing equipment safely and effectively.
• Prepare surfaces for painting, coating, or further processing.
• Accurately measure and verify part dimensions using calipers, tape measures, or other precision instruments.
• Follow all safety rules and maintain a clean, organized work area.
• Work with supervisors and team members to meet production goals and deadlines.
• Identify and report defective materials, improper assemblies, or equipment malfunctions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–3 years of experience in a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Basic understanding of fabrication and assembly processes.
• Proficiency with hand tools, grinders, sanders, and finishing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, or work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and physical stamina.
• Knowledge of shop safety practices and PPE requirements.
• Experience with metal finishing processes (grinding, sanding, deburring, polishing) is highly desirable.

Key Competencies

Technical Competencies:

• Blueprint & Work Order Reading – Ability to interpret fabrication drawings, part numbers, and instructions.
• Hand & Power Tool Proficiency – Skilled in using drills, grinders, sanders, riveters, and other shop tools.
• Assembly Techniques – Knowledge of fasteners, adhesives, and joining methods common in metal fabrication.
• Surface Preparation & Finishing – Deburring, grinding, polishing, and smoothing parts to specification.
• Quality Inspection – Ability to measure tolerances with calipers, micrometers, and gauges to ensure conformance.

Safety & Physical Competencies:

• Workplace Safety Awareness – Consistent use of PPE, understanding of hazard communication, and safe work practices.
• Material Handling – Safe lifting, moving, and staging of metal parts and components.
• Physical Stamina – Capability to stand, bend, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

Workplace Competencies:

• Attention to Detail – Ability to spot defects, inconsistencies, and ensure finished parts meet standards.
• Time Management – Efficient handling of assigned work to meet daily production schedules.
• Teamwork & Communication – Collaborating effectively with operators, painters, and material handlers.
• Adaptability – Flexibility to adjust tasks based on production demands or job priority changes.

Problem-Solving & Continuous Improvement:

• Troubleshooting Assembly Issues – Identifying misaligned parts, surface defects, or tooling issues.
• Process Improvement Mindset – Suggesting better methods for assembly, finishing, and material flow.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with the ADA.

• Standing/Walking: Required to stand and/or walk for 6–8 hours per shift on concrete floors.
• Lifting/Carrying: Frequently lifts, carries, and moves parts, tools, and materials weighing up to 35–50 lbs; occasional team lifts for heavier items.
• Pushing/Pulling: Uses moderate force (up to 50 lbs) to move carts, racks, or materials.
• Reaching/Handling: Frequent reaching, handling, and grasping of parts, hand tools, and finishing equipment.
• Repetitive Motions: Regular use of hands, wrists, and arms for grinding, sanding, polishing, riveting, or other repetitive assembly tasks.
• Bending/Kneeling: Occasional bending, stooping, squatting, and kneeling to position or assemble parts.
• Vision: Requires close vision and depth perception for inspecting parts and ensuring finish quality.
• Hearing: Ability to hear machine alarms, safety signals, and verbal instructions in a moderately noisy shop environment.

Work Environment

• Noise: Moderate to high noise levels from fabrication equipment; hearing protection required in designated areas.
• Temperature: Exposure to seasonal temperature fluctuations in the shop environment.
• Other: Exposure to sharp metal edges, oils, lubricants, and airborne metal dust; personal protective equipment (PPE) required at all times.