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The differences between assembly operators and assembly associates can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, an assembly operator has an average salary of $31,928, which is higher than the $29,234 average annual salary of an assembly associate.
The top three skills for an assembly operator include hand tools, quality checks and basic math. The most important skills for an assembly associate are hand tools, math, and basic math.
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Associate | |
| Yearly salary | $31,928 | $29,234 |
| Hourly rate | $15.35 | $14.05 |
| Growth rate | -6% | - |
| Number of jobs | 87,293 | 28,002 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 41% | High School Diploma, 38% |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
In a manufacturing setting, an assembly operator is in charge of assembling materials using hands or tools. Their responsibilities include following assembly guidelines, packing items in containers and boxes, operating tools and equipment, and developing strategies to optimize operations. They may also perform regular maintenance checks on machines and equipment to maintain a safe and efficient work environment. Furthermore, it is essential to observe an active communication line with co-workers, coordinating for a structured and smooth workflow.
In manufacturing facilities, an assembly associate is responsible for assembling product components according to guidelines and diagrams. Their daily tasks often include preparing and processing products, operating machines, maintaining records, and adhering to schedules and production goals. They are also responsible for attending regular meetings and maintaining the cleanliness of work areas, discarding trash properly. Moreover, as an assembly associate, it is essential to maintain an active communication line with co-workers and adhere to the company's safety guidelines and policies.
Assembly operators and assembly associates have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Associate | |
| Average salary | $31,928 | $29,234 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $38,000 | Between $23,000 And $37,000 |
| Highest paying City | Fremont, CA | Fargo, ND |
| Highest paying state | Maine | Oregon |
| Best paying company | North American Stainless | General Electric |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Automotive |
There are a few differences between an assembly operator and an assembly associate in terms of educational background:
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Associate | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 41% | High School Diploma, 38% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between assembly operators' and assembly associates' demographics:
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Associate | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 53.3% Female, 46.7% | Male, 58.3% Female, 41.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 12.2% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 17.6% Asian, 9.4% White, 55.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% | Black or African American, 13.6% Unknown, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 9.1% White, 56.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |