In manufacturing environments where mechanical technologies are produced, Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors perform quality control and production work, putting together finished products and subassemblies and ensuring their quality and consistency.

Their work is indispensable to many sectors but is notably important in the automotive industry where they assemble components such as engines and transmissions, which are necessary for automobiles to function. FOCAL forecasts a strong demand for Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors, especially within the automotive industry, where nearly 1,000 job openings are expected over the next 10 years.

Where do Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors work?

What do Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors do?

Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors use a variety of hand and powered tools including robotics and automation to perform production tasks on raw materials and work in process goods, to create mechanical product subassemblies used in various technologies or assemble finished products. Below are common tasks performed by Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors:

• Assemble, fit and install prefabricated parts to form subassemblies or finish products using hand and power tools
• Operate or tend automated assembling equipment, such as robotics and fixed automation equipment
• Check mechanical assemblies and subassemblies for alignment and proper functioning
• Position, align and adjust parts for proper fit and assembly and connect cables, tubes and wires
• Perform minor adjustments and repairs.

Career pathways & potential earnings of Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors

Assemblers can progress to other roles and positions with the adequate experience and skills:

Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors can also apply their skills and expertise in other occupations such as the following:

• Motor Vehicle Assemblers
• Assemblers and inspectors, electrical appliance, apparatus and equipment manufacturing
• Electronics assemblers, fabricators, inspectors and testers

How do I become a Motor Vehicle Assembler, Inspector and Tester?

Mechanical Assembly and Inspection is an entry level trade, with few barriers to entry. Qualifications for Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors may vary depending on the province or company, but the most common requirements include:

• Minimum Education: Some high school is required
• Certification and Licensing: Optional certifications may boost employability including a forklift license and WHMIS certification.
• Training and other requirements: On-the-job training is provided, and can last up to two years. Experience as an assembler is required to enter inspection roles.

What are the most important skills to have as an Assembler or Inspector?

Assemblers and inspectors acquire important skills through their training, as well as the experience accumulated as part of their job in production. Increased use of electrification within the automotive industry will shape assembly roles to have greater knowledge of electricity and electrical components.

Technical Knowledge and Skills

• Mechanics
• Operations Monitoring
• Computer-Aided Design Software
• Quality Control Analysis
• Production and Processing
• Design

Soft Skills

• Reading Comprehension
• Time Management
• Perceptual Speed
• Visualization
• Manual Dexterity
• Instructing

Future of Mechanical Assembly jobs in Canada

The job market for Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors is promising. More than 9,600 assemblers were employed across Canada in 2021, with many employed in automotive parts manufacturing. FOCAL projects nearly 1,000 assembly job openings between 2021 and 2030. FOCAL also forecasts that during the same period, almost 800 workers will be needed to fill recruitment gaps in the sector. New electrification trends in automotive drivetrain and battery manufacturing will allow Mechanical Assemblers and Inspectors to work on new and exciting technologies within the sector.

Learn more about the job market for mechanical assembly and inspection, as well as about many other developments and new technologies in Canada’s automotive manufacturing by visiting our website futureautolabourforce.ca. You can also check our social media by following these links: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.