Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Production
Work starts with blueprints and specification manuals used to plan how an engine, turbine, or similar machine will go together. Parts are aligned by hand or with hoists, then clearances are checked with calipers, gauges, and micrometers before piping, fixtures, or wiring is fastened in place with hand tools, rivet guns, or welding equipment. Rough spots get smoothed, and pieces may be drilled, reamed, or cut so they fit. Completed machines are inspected, run, and tested against customer specifications. Suits people who like precise, hands-on fitting and checking that each part matches the drawing.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$53'710
Median Wage Market Position
$53'710
What you might do
- Read assembly blueprints and plan the build
- Align engine parts by hand or hoist
- Fasten piping, wiring, and fixtures together
- Check part clearances with gauges and calipers
- Smooth rough spots so parts fit
- Test completed machines against the specifications
Skills that matter
- Reading engine assembly blueprints
- Operating finished machines to confirm function
- Verifying part clearances with gauges
- Planning the build from manuals
- Aligning engine parts with hoists
- Hearing concerns during engine assembly
AI & the future of this role
Building and rebuilding engines and heavy machinery depends on precise fits, torque judgment, and diagnosing out-of-spec parts. Some subassemblies may move to automated cells, yet complex industrial work tends to hold steadier.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details