Assembler

Job Title: Mechanical Assembler

Job Description

The Mechanical Assembler will assemble large diesel and natural gas engines used to power critical applications such as hospital backup generators, data centers, and large industrial vehicles. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, hands-on experience with a wide range of tools, and the ability to interpret blueprints, work instructions, and engineering drawings. The role is highly technical and closer to a mechanic than a basic assembly line position, involving troubleshooting, in-process repair, and precise use of torque and pneumatic equipment.

1st Shift: 6:30AM-2:30PM - $21.34

2nd Shift: 2:30PM-10:30PM - $22.09

3rd Shift: 10:30PM- 6:30AM - $22.09

Responsibilities

• Assemble large diesel and natural gas engines according to detailed blueprints, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Use a wide variety of hand and power tools, including torque wrenches, pneumatic air tools, DC electrical tooling, basic wrenches, and other specialized torque equipment.
• Manipulate and position massive engine components safely using lifting devices, cranes, and hoists during the assembly process.
• Interpret and follow written work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), engineering drawings, and work orders with high accuracy.
• Review and document work instructions and process steps on a computer, accurately recording progress and assembly data.
• Apply proper fastening, sealing, and torque techniques to ensure all components meet quality and safety standards.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and repair on in-process engines when issues arise during assembly.
• Ensure all work meets established quality standards and processes, including inspection of assemblies to verify correct torque, fit, and function.
• Work collaboratively in small teams, typically in pairs, within assigned zones on the main assembly line.
• Complete various sub-assemblies, such as oil pumps and coolers, within specified time frames while maintaining quality and safety.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, promptly addressing any debris, spills, or hazards in alignment with safety priorities.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and compliance with facility rules.
• Participate in and successfully complete written and hands-on assessments during the training period, demonstrating competency in safety, fastening, sealing, hydraulic equipment, torque equipment, and quality.
• Follow all attendance and call-off procedures, including timely communication when unable to report to work.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience working in an industrial environment in a hands-on role.
• Demonstrated experience using mechanical tooling, including torque equipment, DC tools, and common hand tools.
• Strong mid-level mechanical aptitude, with the ability to perform complex mechanical assembly beyond basic power tool use.
• Experience following written work instructions, SOPs, blueprints, and similar technical documentation.
• Computer proficiency sufficient to follow engineering drawings, digital work instructions, and process documentation.
• Ability to pass both written and hands-on assessments focused on safety, fastening, sealing, hydraulic equipment, torque equipment, and quality.
• Ability to interpret and apply customer-specific blueprints and specifications to custom engine builds.
• Comfort working with large, heavy components and using lifting devices, cranes, and hoists safely.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality, accurate work.
• Steel-toed or composite-toed shoes required at start of employment.
• Ability to work in a team-based assembly environment and communicate clearly with coworkers.
• Capability to work scheduled overtime, including every other Saturday as required by production demands.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in automotive, diesel technician, lube technician, tire shop, farming, construction, maintenance, or facilities roles is highly relevant.
• Background in mechanical assembly, automotive repair, industrial maintenance, or light industrial work.
• Familiarity with blueprint reading, tape measure use, and interpreting technical schematics.
• Experience in electrical or electronic assembly, including basic wiring and reading electrical schematics.
• Comfort working in general production or general labor environments with a focus on quality and safety.
• Demonstrated experience with pneumatic tooling, including explaining how tools were used and maintained.
• Demonstrated experience with torque tools, including understanding how to verify correct torque and quality of assemblies.
• Mechanical troubleshooting experience in previous jobs or personal projects.
• No formal diploma required; candidates are evaluated based on skills, experience, and assessment results.
• Ability to achieve at least the 21st percentile or above on the required general labor assessment.

Why Work Here?

Employees join a large, established manufacturing facility with a strong focus on safety, quality, and technical excellence. The organization offers the opportunity to transition from contract to full-time employment, with performance and attendance as key factors. Full-time employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous paid time off (18 days/144 hours), 11 paid holidays, a 100% 401(k) match up to 6%, and health, dental, vision, and life insurance effective on the first day of employment. Team members receive scheduled pay increases at 90, 180, and 365 days, supporting clear progression and recognition of performance. There are multiple shift options, including traditional and alternative work schedules, providing flexibility and additional opportunities on second and third shifts. The environment values long-term growth, skill development, and stable work in a clean, well-organized facility.

Work Environment

The role is based in a large manufacturing facility in Lafayette, IN, with the building split between an assembly area and a machine shop. The environment is temperature-controlled and kept very clean, with minimal debris such as metal scraps, packaging, or oil spills, reflecting a strong safety culture. PPE is mandatory and strictly enforced, including steel or composite toe shoes, earplugs, and safety glasses; earplugs and glasses are provided on-site. The dress code is relaxed: sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, work pants, and jeans are acceptable, while leggings and sweatpants are not permitted. Assemblers typically work in teams of two within one of four zones on the main line, generally working side by side on several components, with task times varying by area (for example, oil pumps and coolers may take around 20 minutes per job). The facility operates multiple shifts: 1st Shift (6:30 AM–2:30 PM), 2nd Shift (2:30 PM–10:30 PM), 3rd Shift (10:30 PM–6:30 AM), as well as 1st AWS (6:00 AM–6:00 PM Friday–Sunday) and 3rd AWS (6:00 PM–6:00 AM Friday–Sunday). Alternative work schedule employees work 36 hours and are paid for 36 hours, with full-time employees on AWS earning pay equivalent to 40 hours. Production is currently scheduled to work every other Saturday through much of 2025, subject to change. The campus is tobacco-free inside the facility and on the grounds, with use of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices limited to approved break times in personal vehicles in the parking lot. Clear attendance and call-off procedures are in place, requiring employees to notify the designated call-out line at least 30 minutes prior to their shift and follow up with confirmation by email.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lafayette, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.34 - $22.09/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Lafayette,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 29, 2026.

About Aerotek:

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

mechanical assembly, blueprint reading, safety protocols, mechanical tooling, torque equipment, pneumatic tooling, dc electrical tooling, hydraulic equipment, quality inspection, personal protective equipment, mechanical troubleshooting, electrical schematics, tape measure use, computer proficiency, standard operating procedures, industrial maintenance, attention to detail, CNC Machinist, Quality Inspector, Machine Operator, Material Handler, General Helper, Production, Assembly & QA Testing, CNC Programmer, Hub Order Puller, General Laborer, Lunch Truck Operator