Assembler

Aerotek
Lafayette, IN

Job Title: Mechanical Assembler
Job Description

Join a high-performance manufacturing team as a Mechanical Assembler, where you will build large, custom diesel and natural gas engines that power hospital backup generators, data centers, and heavy industrial equipment. In this role, you will perform complex mechanical assembly using a wide range of hand and power tools, torque and pneumatic equipment, electrical testing tools, and overhead lifting devices. You will interpret blueprints and work instructions, follow detailed specifications for hundreds of sub-assemblies, and contribute to troubleshooting and repair of in-process engines. This position is best suited for individuals who are highly mechanically inclined, comfortable with tools and technical documentation, and interested in work that goes far beyond basic assembly line tasks.

Responsibilities

  • Assemble large diesel and natural gas engines according to detailed blueprints, engineering drawings, and customer specifications.
  • Use a wide variety of tools, including torque wrenches, pneumatic air tools, DC/electrical tooling, hand tools, and specialized torque equipment, to complete complex assembly tasks.
  • Manipulate and position massive engine components safely using lifting devices and cranes as needed during the assembly process.
  • Interpret and follow written work instructions, standard operating procedures, and work orders to ensure accurate and consistent assembly.
  • Review and document work instructions and progress using CPU/computer systems, including confirming steps completed and recording any issues or deviations.
  • Apply proper fastening, sealing, hydraulic, and torque techniques to ensure that all assemblies meet safety, quality, and performance standards.
  • Perform basic mechanical troubleshooting and in-process repair on engines and sub-assemblies when issues arise during assembly.
  • Verify that all torque values, fasteners, and connections meet specification, using appropriate measuring and testing equipment.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work layouts to understand assembly requirements and sequence of operations.
  • Work collaboratively in a two-person assembly team and within assigned zones on the main line, coordinating tasks to complete sub-assemblies efficiently.
  • Handle multiple sub-assemblies with varying time requirements, such as completing components like oil pumps and coolers within defined timeframes.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, promptly addressing or reporting any hazards, debris, or spills.
  • Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and adherence to facility safety rules and procedures.
  • Participate actively in training focused on safety, fastening, sealing, hydraulic and torque equipment, and quality processes, and apply this knowledge on the floor.
  • Support production goals by working scheduled shifts and overtime, including every other Saturday as required by the production schedule.
Essential Skills
  • Proven experience working in an industrial environment in a hands-on role.
  • Demonstrated experience using mechanical tooling, including torque equipment, DC tools, hand tools, and pneumatic tools.
  • Solid mid-level mechanical aptitude, with the ability to perform work that is more advanced than basic assembly or simple power tool operation.
  • Experience following written work instructions, standard operating procedures, blueprints, and similar technical documentation.
  • Computer/CPU skills sufficient to follow engineering drawings, digital work instructions, and documented processes, and to record work progress.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work layouts for mechanical assembly.
  • Comfort working with large mechanical components and using lifting devices or cranes to move heavy parts safely.
  • Ability to pass written and hands-on assessments during the training period related to safety, fastening, sealing, hydraulic equipment, torque equipment, and quality.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to meeting quality standards and processes.
  • Ability to mechanically troubleshoot issues with assemblies or equipment and take corrective actions.
  • Capability to work effectively in a team-based environment, often in two-person assembly teams.
  • Steel-toed or composite safety shoes required at the start of employment.
  • Ability to meet required assessment benchmarks for consideration for the role.
  • Reliable attendance and ability to follow call-off procedures when necessary.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience in mechanically focused industries such as automotive, diesel technician work, lube technician roles, tire shops, farming, construction, maintenance, or facilities.
  • Background in mechanical assembly, automotive repair, industrial repair, or related trades.
  • Familiarity with blueprint reading, tape measure use, and general mechanical measurement tools.
  • Exposure to production or manufacturing environments, including assembly line or assembly production work.
  • Experience with electrical or electronic assembly, basic wiring, and reading electrical schematics is beneficial.
  • Comfort working with torque tools, general production equipment, and light industrial machinery.
  • Ability to describe and demonstrate building or assembling items from scratch using hand and power tools.
  • Understanding of quality standards and processes used in previous roles to ensure good product output.
  • No formal diploma required; candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience are encouraged to apply.
Why Work Here?

You will join one of the largest and most established manufacturing operations in the region, offering a stable environment and clear pathways to long-term employment. After the contract period, employees can apply for full-time roles, with performance and attendance playing a key role in conversion decisions. Full-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous paid time off (18 days/144 hours of PTO), 11 paid holidays, and health, dental, vision, and life insurance effective on the first day of employment. The organization also offers a 100% 401(k) match up to 6%, supporting long-term financial security. All employees receive scheduled pay increases at 90, 180, and 365 days, rewarding consistent performance and growth. Multiple shifts and alternative work schedules create opportunities to align work hours with personal needs, and there is more opportunity for long-term roles on second and third shifts. The culture emphasizes safety, quality, and continuous learning, providing structured training and ongoing development for mechanically inclined professionals.

Work Environment

This role is based in a modern manufacturing facility that is divided into an assembly side and a machine shop side, with temperature-controlled conditions throughout. The environment is very clean, with minimal debris such as metal scraps, packaging, or oil spills, reflecting a strong commitment to safety. Personal protective equipment is mandatory: steel or composite toe shoes are required, and earplugs and safety glasses are provided and must be worn as directed on the production floor. The dress code is relaxed but practical: sweatshirts, t-shirts, and hats are allowed; work pants and jeans are acceptable, while leggings and sweatpants are not permitted. You will typically work in a two-person assembly team within one of four zones on the main line, often performing several pieces of the assembly process and handling sub-assemblies that vary in complexity and time, such as 20-minute tasks for certain components. 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 alternative weekend schedules (6 AM–6 PM or 6 PM–6 AM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Weekend schedules typically involve working 36 hours with pay structured to reflect full-time equivalency for permanent employees. Production is currently scheduled to work every other Saturday through much of the upcoming year, subject to change. The campus is tobacco-free, with the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vape devices, or chewing tobacco only permitted in personal vehicles in the parking lot during approved breaks. Clear attendance and call-off procedures are in place and must be followed, reinforcing a culture of reliability and respect for team operations. The work involves frequent use of torque wrenches, pneumatic tools, DC tools, cranes/hoists, and a wide array of more than 40 tools at each station, creating a dynamic, hands-on environment for mechanically inclined individuals.

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 May 11, 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.

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