CABLE ASSEMBLER JOB DESCRIPTION

Find detailed Cable Assembler job descriptions with role duties, technical requirements, and qualifications from real manufacturing employers.

Cable Assembler Job Description Template

1. About the Role

Hand-assembled cable and electrical subassemblies are the physical backbone of finished products shipped to end customers. When this work is done poorly, defects reach the line, production schedules slip, and rework costs climb. Precise. The Cable Assembler owns the hands-on build of wired assemblies and electro-mechanical subassemblies against engineering schematics and customer work orders, operating within a production cell governed by takt time targets and MRP-tracked inventory. Working under production schedules and alongside quality and engineering teams, this role shapes whether finished goods leave the floor on time and within specification.

2. Position Summary

As the Cable Assembler, you build and test cable assemblies, harnesses, and electro-mechanical subassemblies to engineering and customer specifications, directly affecting product quality and shipment readiness. You operate within a manufacturing cell alongside production and quality teams, supporting continuous improvement initiatives and reporting assembly issues to the department supervisor.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Hands-on experience assembling PCBs, cable harnesses, and PDUs to engineering schematics builds a measurable technical foundation that advances your standing in electronics manufacturing.

Business Impact: The assembled subassemblies and wired components you produce feed directly into finished goods that ship to residential and commercial end customers, making your output visible in every unit delivered.

Growth Opportunity: Cross-training across multiple work cells and gaining exposure to MRP systems and engineering work requests opens pathways to Production Technician and Quality Inspector roles.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Assemble cable harnesses, printed circuit boards, and electro-mechanical subassemblies to engineering schematics and customer work order specifications.
  • Perform electrical function tests on completed assemblies using test fixtures to verify output meets specification before shipment.
  • Take precision measurements and select or modify components to ensure correct fit across all assembly stages.
  • Monitor own work for defects and report nonconforming materials or process conditions to the department supervisor.
  • Maintain accurate production records including work order number, inspection status, and operation status for each unit processed.
  • Operate cell equipment, hand tools, and power tools following all safety guidelines and prescribed SOPs.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives by identifying process issues and supporting implementation of enhancements within the production cell.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and 6S-compliant work area to support uninterrupted manufacturing operations.

5. Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma, general education degree (GED), or equivalent work experience.
  • 6 months or more of production or assembly experience, with demonstrated ability to work in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings to build products that match specification.
  • Demonstrated mechanical and electrical aptitude, including familiarity with soldering, crimping, and connector assembly.
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination sufficient to handle small parts and operate precision hand tools for extended periods.
  • Ability to follow both written and verbal work instructions accurately and complete tasks with minimum supervision.
  • Basic math skills and the ability to take precise measurements using instruments such as a micrometer.
  • Must be able to stand for up to 8 to 12 hours and lift up to 26 lbs as required by production demands.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience cross-training across multiple work cells or value streams within a production environment.
  • Familiarity with MRP systems or inventory tracking processes at the point of use.
  • Forklift or overhead crane certification, or prior experience operating material handling equipment.
  • Experience with CNC machines, welding, or power and air tool operation in a manufacturing setting.

7. Success Metrics and Environment

  • First-pass yield rate on assembled units, reflecting accuracy against engineering schematics before rework is required.
  • Defect escape rate, measuring the number of nonconforming assemblies that reach downstream inspection or shipment.
  • On-time completion rate against production schedule, tracking adherence to takt time targets within the cell.
  • Rework hours per work order, indicating how often completed assemblies require correction due to build errors.
  • Cross-training coverage, measured by the number of work cells in which the assembler is certified to operate independently.

8. Compensation and Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $18 to $24 per hour, typical for entry to mid-level electronics manufacturing assemblers
  • Bonus: Attendance and performance bonuses common in production environments
  • Equity: Not typical at this level
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard
  • PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus company-observed holidays
  • Common Perks: Overtime availability, shift differential pay, safety boot allowance


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO and Legal

Background checks, including employment history and, where applicable, drug screening, are a standard condition of employment for this role. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, and local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Cable Assembler Job Description Example

1. Cable Assembler (Pool Equipment Manufacturing)

The Cable Assembler at Hayward Pool Products assembles printed circuit boards and installs sub-assemblies into unit enclosures, supporting the company's residential and commercial pool equipment product line. Working within the manufacturing team, this role delivers quality electrical assemblies that meet engineering specifications and enables continuous production output.


Key Responsibilities

  • Assemble printed circuit boards by inserting applicable components in through-hole fashion utilizing specific work instructions.
  • Install sub-assemblies and miscellaneous hardware into specific unit enclosures at a final assembly level.
  • Utilize specific work instructions, procedures, and various hand and air tools.
  • Perform electrical function tests at PCB and final assembly level using test fixtures provided by electrical engineering.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and operate in a safe manner.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area to facilitate manufacturing functions.


Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 6 months production work experience, preferably from within a manufacturing industry.
  • Electro-mechanical aptitude is desirable.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with individuals and teams to achieve department and production goals.
  • Ability to follow through on tasks assigned to completion.
  • Must be able to stand at workstation for up to 8 hours.

2. Cable Assembler (Electrical Components Assembly)

Embedded within the manufacturing team, the Cable Assembler builds and maintains Power Distribution Units, cables, and harnesses to company and engineering specifications. Working closely with supervisors and warehouse staff, this role advances product quality through continuous improvement participation and careful monitoring of assembly standards.


Core Functions

  • Assemble Power Distribution Units (PDUs) and other electrical components to company specifications.
  • Assemble cables, harnesses, electronic and electro-mechanical test equipment to engineering specifications.
  • Replace and remove electrical components on PDU when needed.
  • Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives, providing recommendations and implementing enhancements to current methods and procedures.
  • Seek opportunities to improve quality and monitor own work to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Maintain the quality and upkeep of warehouse equipment including machinery.


Qualifications and Experience

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Familiar and comfortable with soldering, crimping, and assembling cables and connectors.
  • Ability to read engineering schematics and build products that match the schematic.
  • Good coordination, motor skills, and dexterity.
  • Must be able to follow both oral and written instructions when performing job duties.

3. Cable Assembler (Mechanical and Electrical Assembly)

Reporting to the department supervisor, the Cable Assembler uses hand tools and manufacturing documentation to inspect, test, and prepare mechanical and electrical assemblies and subassemblies for shipment. Partnering with colleagues across production and customer-facing teams, this role shapes a positive company image while ensuring all products meet quality and schedule requirements.


Primary Duties

  • Use hand tools, equipment, and materials to complete, inspect, test, and clean mechanical and electrical assemblies and subassemblies for shipment.
  • Use specifications and documentation to prepare and assemble quality products.
  • Report defective materials or questionable conditions to the department supervisor.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work area and equipment, and follow prescribed regulations.
  • Complete tasks as directed by production schedules with minimum supervision.
  • Represent the company in a positive manner with prospective, current, and former employees, clients, suppliers, and the community.
  • Interact professionally and effectively with a diverse group of employees and customers.
  • Maintain prompt and regular attendance based on the work hours established by management.


Skills and Qualifications

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Must be able to visually inspect small items for accuracy and handle small parts with manual dexterity.
  • Ability to use small hand tools and basic computer skills.
  • Must have the ability to troubleshoot problems and demonstrate good problem-solving skills.
  • Must be dependable with good attendance and work ethic.
  • Willing to cross-train within the department.

4. Cable Assembler (Manufacturing Line Operations)

Sitting at the intersection of production quality and continuous improvement, the Cable Assembler operates assembly cells to meet takt time targets, follows all manufacturing documentation and SOPs, and executes engineering work requests across multiple work cells. Operating across packaging, inventory management, and raw material testing functions, this role supports the manufacturing team's output goals and process improvement initiatives.


Duties

  • Always operate safely, follow processes and standard work, and wear appropriate PPE.
  • Read, understand, and follow all manufacturing documentation, SOPs, and regulatory requirements.
  • Perform line and cell set-up, start-up, and shut-down as required by position.
  • Operate cell and work area to ensure quality products are produced to specified takt time and quality expectations.
  • Perform various packaging duties and MRP functions to maintain inventory accuracy of work-in-process.
  • Test raw materials and production samples as required by position.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area and sustain implemented process improvements.
  • Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives and execute engineering work requests.


Experience and Qualifications

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Must be cross-trained to independently work in at least 3 different work cells performing tasks as required by the process.
  • Must be able to write legibly, read, speak English, and complete basic math functions.
  • Must be a proactive team member with good communication skills.
  • Able to perform repetitive work duties in a manufacturing environment and assembly line.
  • Must be able to use hands and wrists to manually assemble parts for an 8-12 hour period and achieve production goals.
  • Must have good attendance and the ability to pay attention to detail and follow written instructions.

5. Cable Assembler (Precision Component Assembly)

A key member of the production team, the Cable Assembler takes precision measurements, selects and modifies components, and builds complex units from smaller parts while maintaining equipment and records. Collaborating across the shop floor to meet the highest quality standards, this role delivers accurate and well-documented assembly output that supports overall manufacturing performance.


Functions

  • Collect all materials and equipment needed to begin the assembly process.
  • Take precision measurements to ensure perfect fit of components.
  • Select or modify components according to measurements and specifications.
  • Align materials and put together parts to build more complex units.
  • Maintain equipment in good condition and perform operator preventive maintenance.
  • Keep records of production quantities and time, and report issues, malfunctions, or defective parts.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and properly identify all product processed with work order, inspection, and operation status.


Technical Qualifications

  • Technical knowledge and ability to read blueprints and engineering drawings.
  • Ability to use and read a micrometer and tools such as clamps and presses.
  • Must possess basic math skills and the ability to understand quality control principles.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination.

6. Cable Assembler (Heavy Manufacturing and Equipment Operations)

Consistent product quality and safe equipment operation depend on the Cable Assembler, who follows detailed assembly instructions, operates power tools and overhead cranes, and performs quality control checks against customer work orders and technical drawings. Based within a warehouse manufacturing environment, this role serves as a key production contributor reporting to the Production Supervisor and working alongside the broader shop floor team.


Accountabilities

  • Follow detailed verbal and written assembly instructions, processes, and procedures.
  • Read and understand customer work orders, blueprints, and technical drawings.
  • Dismantle and assemble components, and fasten them using hand tools and power tools.
  • Operate hand power tools, presses, drills, saws, lifts, and control equipment efficiently and safely.
  • Perform quality control checks and verification of work order specifications.
  • Properly fill out forms, reports, and label products correctly.
  • Report problems with quality, processes, equipment, and materials to the Production Supervisor.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area to facilitate manufacturing functions.
  • Operate forklifts and overhead cranes with approved rigging methods as directed.


Background and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must have 2 or more years of experience in a manufacturing or warehouse setting.
  • Demonstrated mechanical and electrical aptitude.
  • Forklift and overhead crane experience is a plus.
  • Experience with CNC machines or welding is a plus.
  • Ability to use power tools, air tools, and other vibratory tools.
  • Must have good written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work from a standing position for extended periods and in an open warehouse environment subject to seasonal weather.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.