First Article Assembler

General Overview

Under minimal supervision, performsa wide variety of precision preparation activitiesrequiredto support first article and prototype cable/connector assemblies. This roleis responsible forensuringall components areproperly 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 Responsibilitiesinclude 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.

• Identifyand escalate any issues with tooling or fixture readiness.

Work Instruction & Documentation Compliance

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

• Follow detailedinstructions preciselyto ensure process integrity and repeatability.

• Complete required documentation accurately andin a timely manner.

Quality & Inspection

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

• Identifydefects, inconsistencies, or deviations and escalate as needed.

• Maintainhigh standardsof 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.

• Proactivelyidentifyand 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 abilityrequired. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)education.

• Minimum2to 5yearsof experience incomparable 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.

• Demonstratedproficiencyin 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 ofmechanical hardware (nuts, bolts, screws, etc.) assembly.

• Advancedknowledge of blueprints, Bill ofMaterialsand 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

• Requiresabilityto perform simple mathematical calculations.

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

• Candidate mustpossessU.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 isa ”ProtectedIndividual” as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).)