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The differences between assembly operators and assembly inspectors 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 $28,624 average annual salary of an assembly inspector.
The top three skills for an assembly operator include hand tools, quality checks and basic math. The most important skills for an assembly inspector are hand tools, line assembly, and inspection results.
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Inspector | |
| Yearly salary | $31,928 | $28,624 |
| Hourly rate | $15.35 | $13.76 |
| Growth rate | -6% | - |
| Number of jobs | 87,293 | 32,924 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 41% | High School Diploma, 46% |
| 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.
An assembly inspector is primarily in charge of inspecting products, usually furniture and fixtures, to ensure compliance with production standards. Their responsibilities typically include examining surfaces to identify any dents or damages, conducting measurements and assessments, marking identified issues, reviewing documentation, and maintaining records, producing detailed reports for teams and managers. Moreover, as an assembly inspector, it is essential to lead and encourage staff to reach goals, all while implementing the company's production standards and policies.
Assembly operators and assembly inspectors have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Inspector | |
| Average salary | $31,928 | $28,624 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $38,000 | Between $22,000 And $35,000 |
| Highest paying City | Fremont, CA | Santa Cruz, CA |
| Highest paying state | Maine | Washington |
| Best paying company | North American Stainless | Northrop Grumman |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Automotive |
There are a few differences between an assembly operator and an assembly inspector in terms of educational background:
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Inspector | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 41% | High School Diploma, 46% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between assembly operators' and assembly inspectors' demographics:
| Assembly Operator | Assembly Inspector | |
| Average age | 44 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 53.3% Female, 46.7% | Male, 40.7% Female, 59.3% |
| 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, 13.2% Unknown, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 15.5% Asian, 9.6% White, 57.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.6% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 5% |