Day in the life

A Day in the Life of a Timing Device Assembler

What timing device assemblers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
What is a typical day like for a timing device assembler?

Set up the clean bench. From there, the day usually includes assemble precision parts, adjust mechanisms, and calibrate timing. Full-time daytime hours.

Hour by hour: a typical shift

No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a timing device assembler working full time.

  1. Set up the clean bench.
  2. Assemble timer movements.
  3. Adjust escapements.
  4. Calibrate on a timing machine.
  5. Inspect under a microscope.
  6. Test finished units.
  7. Record results.

Where timing device assemblers work

Assemblers work at clean benches in small manufacturing shops.

Hours and schedule

Full-time daytime hours.

Tasks you’ll do most often

  • Assemble precision parts
  • Adjust mechanisms
  • Calibrate timing
  • Inspect under magnification
  • Test devices
  • Lubricate parts
  • Record results

Tools you’ll use every day

  • Tweezers
  • Loupes
  • Microscopes
  • Timing machines
  • Screwdrivers
  • Oilers

The best and hardest parts of the job

What people like

  • Precision craft
  • Clean environment
  • Steady pace
  • No degree needed

What’s hard

  • Tiny field
  • Eye strain
  • Very few openings
  • Repetitive

You’ll likely thrive if…

  • I have steady hands
  • I love tiny details
  • I’m patient
  • I like quiet benches
  • I like precision
  • I don’t need a degree

Not sure? Take the free Timing Device Assembler fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.

Staying safe on the job

  • Rest eyes regularly
  • Handle solvents safely
  • Use ergonomic seating
  • Keep benches clean
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz