Circuit board fitter

What does a circuit board assembler do? – Tasks and work environment

A circuit board assembler works with assembling, soldering, and inspecting electronic components on circuit boards, which form the heart of most technical products. Tasks often involve both manual and machine assembly, where precision and accuracy are crucial to ensure the circuit boards function flawlessly. The work is usually performed in production environments with high demands on quality and efficiency, with workstations designed to minimize static electricity and other disturbances. Many circuit board assemblers work in teams and collaborate closely with testers and engineers to quickly identify and fix any faults. The pace can be high, especially during large production runs, but there are also tasks that require patience and great concentration.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for circuit board assemblers has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 30,300 kronor per month. The following year, 2023, the average salary increased to 31 400 kronor, representing a salary increase of approximately 3.6%. By 2024, the average salary has continued to rise and is now at 32 600 kronor, an increase of an additional 3.8% from the previous year. This positive trend reflects increased demand for skilled assemblers in the electronics industry, driven by technological advancements and the need for qualified labor. The salary development also highlights recruitment challenges, where employers need to offer competitive conditions to attract and retain skilled workers. Despite this growth, clear differences remain between groups, including gender and region.

Circuit board assembler salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 600 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 kr/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 34,200 kr/month (male, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 196 kr/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Men's average salary: 33 200 kr/month
• Women's average salary: 31 300 kr/month
• Women earn: 94% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a circuit board assembler, a high school education in electrical, energy, or technical programs, or equivalent with a focus on electronics, is usually required. Many employers also value previous experience in electronics manufacturing or relevant certifications, but it is also possible to enter the profession through apprenticeships and internal training. Practical skills, good vision, and dexterity are essential prerequisites for performing the tasks.

• High school diploma: Electrical and energy or technical programs, 3 years
• Certifications: IPC-A-610, ESD protection, soldering certification
• Internship: Often integrated into education or via apprenticeships
• Prerequisites: Good vision, precision, interest in technology
• Further training: Possible through courses or internal company training

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for circuit board assemblers include collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized lunch, and sometimes access to staff discounts or corporate health services. Overtime pay and shift allowances are often included, especially for shift work. Some employers also offer opportunities for internal training and skills development.

Competition and challenges

The job market for circuit board assemblers is characterized by high demand, but recruitment difficulties exist as many leave the profession for other industries or further education. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in larger industries with advanced technical solutions. A challenge is that technological development requires continuous updating of skills and work methods, while the work environment can be repetitive and demand high concentration for long periods. Regionally, access to jobs varies, with the greatest opportunities in larger industrial areas and tech clusters. Salary development is affected by economic conditions and company size, which means some assemblers may need to be flexible regarding work location to find the best conditions.

Tips for those who want to become a circuit board assembler

To succeed as a circuit board assembler, it is good to have an eye for detail and be meticulous in all work, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for the final product. Patience and perseverance help during monotonous tasks and busy periods. Practical aptitude and a genuine interest in technology make it easier to quickly understand new tasks and adapt to different machines and processes. It is also important to be cooperative and communicate clearly with colleagues, especially when problems arise in production. Seeking internships or summer jobs in electronics manufacturing provides valuable experience and increases chances of employment. Staying updated on new techniques and methods through short courses or self-study is a plus. Finally, flexibility is an asset, as tasks and work environments can vary between companies and projects.

Key facts about Circuit Board Assembler

• Education level: High school education, often Electrical and Energy program
• Work environment: Production environment with high quality standards
• Work form: Shift work and teamwork common
• Demand: Great job opportunities, 1437 registered vacancies
• Special skills: Soldering, ESD protection, quality control

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a circuit board assembler can advance to roles such as production technician, quality inspector, or supervisor within electronics manufacturing. Some choose to further their education in automation or electronics to broaden their career opportunities. According to employment forecasts, job prospects are very good both in the short and long term, with stable demand for assemblers of electrical and electronic equipment. The profession is part of a larger occupational group, with nationwide recruitment difficulties and many job opportunities. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, creating a secure job market for those with the right skills.

Frequently asked questions about Circuit Board Assembler

• What does a circuit board assembler earn?
  - A circuit board assembler has an average salary of 32 600 kronor per month.
• What education is required to become a circuit board assembler?
  - Most commonly, a high school education in electrical, energy, or technical programs, often with a focus on electronics.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for circuit board assemblers?
  - Job opportunities are very good, with many vacancies and stable demand.
• What tasks does a circuit board assembler perform?
  - Tasks include assembling, soldering, and inspecting electronic components on circuit boards.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, overtime pay, and internal training.
• How can one develop in the profession?
  - Opportunities exist to specialize in advanced troubleshooting, quality control, or advance to supervisory roles.