**Job Title: Mechanical Assembler** **Job Description** The Mechanical Assembler builds production machines and fixtures from the ground up in a prototype and pre-production environment. You will support the creation of large, complex components that later integrate into automated production lines, working from drawings, schematics, and instructions while using a variety of hand and power tools. This role is hands-on, detail-oriented, and ideal for someone with strong mechanical aptitude who enjoys assembling parts and contributing to the development of new production equipment. **Responsibilities** + Assemble production machines and fixtures from the ground up in a pre-production R&D environment. + Build large mechanical components, typically 8-10 feet long and 4-5 feet tall, consisting of up to 75 parts. + Perform sub-assembly work as directed, acting as an extra set of hands to place parts, tighten bolts, and complete basic assembly tasks. + Follow guidance and instructions from a team lead on the sequence of assembly steps for each unit. + Use hand tools and power tools safely and effectively to assemble, fasten, and secure components. + Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and schematics to understand assembly requirements and part placement. + Measure and verify parts and assemblies using basic measuring tools such as a tape measure to ensure accuracy. + Inspect parts and assemblies during and after build to verify quality, fit, and function. + Assist with troubleshooting basic mechanical issues that arise during assembly and make adjustments as needed. + Operate a sit-down forklift periodically, after training, to move in-process and finished components within the facility. + Handle general production and general labor tasks related to mechanical assembly as needed. + Work efficiently to complete each unit, understanding that a typical build cycle for a unit is approximately one week. + Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, following all safety and PPE requirements. **Essential Skills** + Strong mechanical aptitude gained in a manufacturing environment or through hands-on personal experience such as working on cars or similar mechanical projects. + Ability to work confidently with hand and power tools for mechanical assembly tasks. + Capability to read and understand blueprints, drawings, and basic schematics. + Comfort working in a manufacturing and production environment with large mechanical components. + Basic math skills to support measuring, alignment, and assembly work. + Ability to use a tape measure and other basic measuring tools accurately. + Attention to detail to ensure correct part placement, bolt tightening, and overall assembly quality. + Willingness to operate a sit-down forklift occasionally after receiving training. + Reliability and consistency to support build cycles that typically take about a week per unit. + Ability to follow direction from a team lead and work effectively as part of an assembly team. + Steel or composite-toed shoes, as required PPE for the role. **Additional Skills & Qualifications** + Prior experience in mechanical assembly, assembly line work, or industrial production environments. + Experience in general production, general labor, or manufacturing operations. + Experience in troubleshooting basic mechanical issues during assembly. + Previous forklift experience, particularly with sit-down forklifts, is preferred but not required. + Familiarity with inspection practices to verify assembled components meet quality standards. + Comfort working with large assemblies that may include up to 75 individual parts. + Experience working from schematics, drawings, or assembly instructions in a production setting. **Why Work Here?** You will work in a modern prototype facility where new parts and equipment are developed well before they reach full production, offering a unique view into future manufacturing technologies. The environment is temperature controlled, bright, quiet, and well-organized, supporting focus and comfort throughout the day. The organization values work-life balance, prides itself on maintaining little to no overtime, and typically offers a stable 40-45 hour workweek. Many team members have long tenure, reflecting a positive culture and a workplace where people choose to stay. **Work Environment** This role is based in a prototype and pre-production center that is temperature controlled, bright, quiet, and highly organized. You will work around large mechanical components that are integrated into automated production lines, using hand tools, power tools, measuring tools, and occasionally a sit-down forklift to move in-process and finished assemblies. The standard schedule is a first-shift role from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with rare overtime extending to 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. when required. The typical workweek is approximately 40-45 hours, including two 12-minute breaks and one 30-minute lunch. Required PPE includes steel or composite-toed shoes, safety glasses, and cut-resistant protection as specified. The work itself focuses heavily on the basics of assembly-such as tightening bolts and placing parts-making it straightforward but steady, in a clean and well-maintained production setting. **Job Type & Location** This is a Contract position based out of Columbus, IN. **Pay and Benefits** The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/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 Columbus,IN. **Application Deadline** This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 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.