First Article Assembler

General Overview 

Under minimal supervision, performs a wide variety of precision preparation activities required to support first article and prototype cable/connector assemblies. This role is responsible for ensuring all components are properly cleaned, prepped, and staged to meet strict quality and process requirements prior to assembly. 

The Prep Assembler plays a critical role in the success of first article builds by ensuring material readiness, surface preparation, and process compliance, with a strong focus on cleanliness, detail, and repeatability. The position requires extensive use of chemicals, abrasives, and manual preparation techniques to achieve specified requirements. 

 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. 

First Article Preparation & Execution 

• Perform detailed preparation of cables, connectors, and components for first article and prototype builds. 

• Ensure all materials meet cleanliness, dimensional, and surface preparation specifications prior to assembly. 

• Support first article builds by ensuring readiness of all prepared components and fixtures. 

Surface Preparation & Finishing 

• Perform sanding, polishing, trimming, and deburring of components to required specifications. 

• Utilize abrasives and manual tools to achieve proper surface finishes and tolerances. 

• Inspect prepared components to ensure consistency and compliance with drawings and work instructions. 

Cleaning & Chemical Processing 

• Use approved solvents, cleaners, and chemicals to prepare components for assembly. 

• Follow all procedures related to handling hazardous or flammable materials. 

• Ensure components meet required cleanliness standards for molding and assembly processes. 

Fixture & Setup Preparation 

• Prepare, clean, and stage fixtures, tooling, and workstations for first article builds. 

• Verify fixtures are properly configured and ready for use. 

• Identify and escalate any issues with tooling or fixture readiness. 

Work Instruction & Documentation Compliance 

• Read and interpret production drawings, work instructions, and bills of material. 

• Follow detailed instructions precisely to ensure process integrity and repeatability. 

• Complete required documentation accurately and in a timely manner. 

Quality & Inspection 

• Perform in-process visual inspections and basic checks throughout preparation activities. 

• Identify defects, inconsistencies, or deviations and escalate as needed. 

• Maintain high standards of workmanship and attention to detail. 

Safety & 5S 

• Follow all safety procedures, particularly when handling chemicals and operating tools. 

• Maintain a clean and organized work area consistent with 5S standards. 

• Proactively identify and address safety or environmental concerns. 

Supervisory Responsibilities                    

This position does not supervise other employees. 

Qualifications/Requirements 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Education/Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) education. 

• Minimum 2 to 5 years of experience in comparable electromechanical assembly. 

• Experience working with cable assemblies, connectors, or electromechanical components is strongly preferred. 

• Prior work cell lead and experience training others preferred. 

• IPC/J Standard soldering training and certification is highly preferred. 

• Demonstrated proficiency in soldering, including, but not limited to through-hole and surface mount technology. 

• Experienced in using hand tools and some power tools (power drills, sanders, etc.,) 

• Understanding of mechanical hardware (nuts, bolts, screws, etc.) assembly. 

• Advanced knowledge of blueprints, Bill of Materials and mechanical drawings, 

• Ability to read, write, and speak the English language at a level that allows for the comprehension of detailed instructions and the legible completion of paperwork. 

• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions. 

• Exhibits mechanical aptitude. 

• Must have basic computer skills 

• Requires ability to perform simple mathematical calculations. 

• Understanding of 5S and Lean Manufacturing practices is a plus. 

• Candidate must possess U.S. citizenship or be a "U.S. Person". (A U.S. Person is defined as a person who is a lawful permanent resident “Green Card holder” as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101 (a)(20) or who is a ”Protected Individual” as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).)