Wire Harness Assembler

The Wire Harness Assembler is responsible for the fabrication, assembly, and inspection of wire harnesses and cable assemblies in support of both defense and commercial contracts. This position requires the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, wire lists, and assembly schematics. Work is performed in compliance with applicable quality standards including IPC/WHMA-A-620, MIL-SPEC requirements, and internal quality management system procedures.

Key Responsibilities

ASSEMBLY & FABRICATION

• Fabricate wire harnesses and cable assemblies from engineering drawings, wire lists, wiring diagrams, and schematics.
• Cut, strip, crimp, solder, and terminate wires to specified lengths and connector configurations per print requirements.
• Install and secure connectors, contacts, splices, heat-shrink tubing, backshells, strain reliefs, and hardware per assembly drawings.
• Perform wire routing, lacing, and bundling in accordance with IPC/WHMA-A-620 and applicable MIL-SPEC workmanship standards.
• Operate and maintain assembly tooling including crimping tools, wire strippers, soldering stations, and heat guns.
• Assemble to both Class 2 and Class 3 IPC/WHMA-A-620 acceptance criteria as required by contract.

PRINT READING & DOCUMENTATION

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, wire harness diagrams, wire lists, BOMs, and assembly work orders.
• Identify discrepancies between drawings and physical hardware and escalate to lead or engineering for disposition.
• Accurately record work performed on travelers, work orders, and quality inspection records.

QUALITY & COMPLIANCE

• Perform in-process and first-article inspections to verify dimensional, electrical, and workmanship compliance.
• Conduct continuity and point-to-point testing using multimeters and harness test fixtures.
• Identify, segregate, and tag nonconforming material in accordance with QMS NCR procedures.
• Maintain compliance with ITAR regulations for all defense-related contract work.
• Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action activities as required.

WORKPLACE & SAFETY

• Maintain a clean, organized, and FOD (Foreign Object Debris/Damage)-controlled work area.
• Follow all company safety policies, ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) precautions, and PPE requirements.
• Assist in training junior assemblers on techniques, standards, and procedures as directed.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing activities.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training in electronics, electrical assembly, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of wire harness or cable assembly experience in a production environment.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, wire lists, and assembly schematics — required.
• Proficiency with hand and pneumatic crimping tools, wire strippers, and soldering equipment.
• Familiarity with IPC/WHMA-A-620 workmanship standards.
• Basic electrical knowledge including continuity, polarity, and connector pinout.
• Attention to detail with the ability to work accurately under production schedule requirements.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• IPC/WHMA-A-620 CIS (Certified IPC Specialist) or CQE certification.
• Experience with MIL-SPEC connectors (MIL-DTL-38999, MIL-DTL-5015, M85049 backshells, etc.).
• Experience assembling to J-STD-001 soldering standards.
• Prior work on defense, aerospace, or government-contracted programs.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP work order systems and electronic travelers.
• Experience with harness test equipment and automated continuity test fixtures.

Physical Requirements

The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods at an assembly workstation.
• Manual dexterity required for fine-motor assembly tasks including crimping, soldering, and wire termination.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Corrected vision sufficient to read small text, wire gauges, and color codes (color vision required).
• Ability to work in a production facility environment including exposure to solder flux fumes (ventilated area provided).

ND Defense is an equal opportunity employer including disability and veteran.