There are currently an estimated 218,900 electronic assemblers in the United States. The electronic assembler job market is expected to shrink by -20.8% between 2016 and 2026.
How employable are electronic assemblers?
CareerExplorer rates electronic assemblers with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will lose -39,100 electronic assemblers. That number is based on the retirement of 6,500 existing electronic assemblers.
Are electronic assemblers in demand?
Employment of electronic equipment assemblers in the U.S. is projected to decline steadily. Two factors, in particular, drive this reduced demand. A large number of these assemblers work in the manufacturing sector, which continues to face intense foreign competition facilitated by free trade and investment policies. In addition, job openings are negatively impacted by increases in efficiency achieved via the development of more sophisticated tools, improved processes, or automation. These advances increase production with fewer workers, especially in operations with a large volume of repetitive work. A lesser effect is typically exerted on jobs involving assembly of parts that are more irregular in size or configuration. Employment growth, therefore, is more likely to occur in motor vehicle and aircraft parts assembly, as many of these parts must be installed in nearly inaccessible spaces, making it difficult for robots to complete the work. As more goods from foreign countries come unassembled to save on shipping costs, opportunities for assemblers may result. Other jobs may be protected as some manufacturers choose to remain with human capital and forego the typically high cost of automation, which can only be justified by large volumes of product. The largest number of openings in this field will likely be in the employment services industry. These firms supply temporary workers to various sectors, allowing companies to manage market fluctuations by maintaining a flexible workforce. With experience, electronic equipment assemblers can move into positions involving more skill and greater responsibility. Some may specialize in the repair of specific products or become supervisors or inspectors.