Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Construct, assemble, or rebuild machines, such as engines, turbines, and similar equipment used in such industries as construction, extraction, textiles, and paper manufacturing.
Also called: Air Conditioning Coil Assembler (AC Coil Assembler), Aircraft Engine Assembler, Aircraft Power Plant Assembler, Aircraft Powerplant Assembler, Assembler, Assembler Erector
Median pay
$53,710
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$38,500 – $77,750
People employed
34,000
Holland code
RCI
Realistic · Conventional · Investigative
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Are you OK with physical risk, such as hazardous equipment or conditions, with proper training?
- 2.Do you prefer doing your own work rather than directing others?
- 3.Are you OK being on your feet and moving most of the day?
- 4.Are you comfortable following clear instructions?
- 5.Do you work well under tight deadlines?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
- Long hours on your feet
Engine and Other Machine Assemblers pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (35 states with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What engine and other machine assemblers do
- 01Read and interpret assembly blueprints or specifications manuals, and plan assembly or building operations.
- 02Inspect, operate, and test completed products to verify functioning, machine capabilities, or conformance to customer specifications.
- 03Position or align components for assembly, manually or using hoists.
- 04Set and verify parts clearances.
- 05Verify conformance of parts to stock lists or blueprints, using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauges, or micrometers.
- 06Fasten or install piping, fixtures, or wiring and electrical components to form assemblies or subassemblies, using hand tools, rivet guns, or welding equipment.
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Active Listening
- Active Learning
Knowledge
- Mechanical
- Production and Processing
- Customer and Personal Service
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a high school diploma (O*NET Job Zone 2).
- Related work experience: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
- On-the-job training: over 3 months, up to and including 6 months.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from engine and other machine assemblers
- Rail Car Repairers86% · +26%
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics85% · +20%
- Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers84% · +5%
- Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door84% · +38%
- Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic83% · −2%
Change into engine and other machine assemblers
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Tire Builders88% · $57,390
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers88% · $53,750
- Automotive Body and Related Repairers86% · $54,890
- Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers86% · $56,210
- Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers85% · $39,630
Majors that lead here
- Engine Machinist
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.