Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
•   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information Estimating sises, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
•   Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

Working Life

Assemblers fit parts together to form completed products or parts of other products. Assemblers usually work on a conveyor system in a factory where they add a part or parts to the item as it goes past them. Sub-assemblies (parts of products) may go to other factories for fitting into completed products.  
 
The series of tasks is usually simple and repetitive but sometimes it may be necessary to follow sets of instructions and diagrams. Assemblers may use tools such as screwdrivers, pliers and tweesers. Assembly of some electronic circuitry may involve the use of soldering irons. Assembly of larger objects such as cars will require a lot of standing and some lifting.  
 
The assembler is usually designated to one specific part of the assembly rather than the assembly of the whole product.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Perform quality checks on products and parts.
• Review work orders and blueprints to ensure work is performed according to specifications.
• Rotate through all the tasks required in a particular production process.
• Determine work assignments and procedures.
• Supervise assemblers and train employees on job procedures.
• Shovel, sweep, or otherwise clean work areas.
• Provide assistance in the production of wiring assemblies.
• Maintain production equipment and machinery.
• Complete production reports to communicate team production level to management.
• Package finished products and prepare them for shipment.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Training is usually provided by the employer, and may only consist of a few hours carried out on-the-job. However, if the task is more complicated a short course may be provided.

Generally, training covers the identification and use of components, and how to follow instructions and diagrams. Training may also cover health and safety, product testing, basic quality control and special wiring or soldering techniques.  

Key Skill Certs:

Manual Handling refers to physical activities in most workplaces, and in particular when the activities involve lifting heavy objects which could result in back injury.

Occupational First Aid.

SafePass.

These courses may be available at low or no cost in FET centres nationwide. You can search for these key skills certs, just add the key word via Search our FET CourseFinder.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: manufacturing, engineering operations.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: logistics, distribution, transport, warehousing, stock control, forklift training, pharmaceutical manufacturing operations.

Search for PLC Courses

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €25k - €45k

Salaries vary by employer, location, duties, role, experience, and sessional shift pattern & conditions.

Data Source(s):
Morgan McKinley / CPL/ Colins McNicolas/ Indeed

Last Updated: February, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Assemblers (electrical and electronic products); Assemblers (vehicles and metal goods); Routine inspectors and testers; Weighers, graders and sorters; Tyre, exhaust and windscreen fitters; Sewing machinists; Assemblers and routine operatives n.e.c  

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

Employment has been growing in this occupation since 2020, with employment exceeding preCOVID-19 levels, by almost 4,000 persons. However, the high volume of recent job hires far exceeded any employment growth suggesting that job churn is a factor for these roles.

In addition, there is a large number of jobseekers registered with DSP who were previously employed in roles classified as assemblers/lineworkers and other routine process workers. With 37% holding thirdlevel qualifications, over-qualification may be occurring.

• Skillsnets manufacturing Sector

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• Irish Manufacturing research

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