6 Reasons To Get a Medical Device Assembly Job

Medical device kitting workers are in high demand. An Aerotek expert shares six reasons to try kitting, whether you’ve got assembly experience or not.

Before our country’s healthcare workers can do the essential work of saving lives, they need to open a sealed sterile kit containing the necessary tools.

That’s where medical device assembly — also known as “kitting” — workers make their contribution.

Putting a medical device kit together requires workers who can follow detailed packing instructions and sterility protocols in a cleanroom environment. But aside from that, like packing a suitcase, almost anybody with a clear set of directions can do it.

To find out why medical device assembly represents a great opportunity for job seekers, we spoke with Aerotek Practice Lead Julian Ramirez. He recommends five reasons to consider a medical device kitting job.

Demand is sky high

Precedence Research reports that the medical device industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% by 2030.  “I have seen 10s of millions COVID-19 tests manufactured from one location, and many companies are increasing their production to keep up with testing demands.” says Ramirez.

Kit manufacturers need assemblers to hit lofty production quotas and make sure they can expand. It’s a very robust job market.

Wages are competitive

Thanks to the surge in demand, wages for medical device assembly workers are very competitive. Among manufacturing assembly roles, kitting sets the standard for hourly rates. 

On average, the starting pay is 10-15% higher than a typical assembly job. If you’re comfortable with a night shift position, wages can be even higher. 

For more information about night shift opportunities, visit our previous article on the subject 5 Benefits of Working the Night Shift

No prior experience is required

Many people with more advanced assembly experience are glad to move to medical device assembly. Experienced assemblers will adapt to the cleanroom environment and other conditions for an increase in pay.

But employers are also happy to hire those without experience but can follow detailed instructions. Even if you’ve never worked in manufacturing, several universal job skills will transfer. These include prior experience with repetitive tasks, working within a defined order of operations, following instructions and collaborating with teams.

A history of reliability is the most important skill sought by medical device employers. These are large companies with refined processes, and they require a high level of accountability.

The work is relatively safe, clean, and easy

Medical device assembly labor is relatively simple, the workspaces are clean, and safety factors such as noise level and injury risk are minimal compared to most manufacturing environments. 

All medical device assembly work takes place in a cleanroom environment which comes with a built-in emphasis on personal protective equipment (PPE). Training is also less intensive than it would be in a machine shop, and workers may get better benefits given that they’re working for a medical company. 

“It’s rare to be able to sit down when you’re working in a manufacturing or even a warehousing environment, but kitting allows for that,” says Ramirez.

Job Security

According to our Job Seeker Survey, job security is consistently an important motivator for those looking for work. medical assembly (depending on the product) is usually resistant to economic instability if medical procedures and testing remain in high demand.

Refer your family and friends

Medical device kit manufacturers need to hire as many reliable people as possible to help keep up with demand. 

Employers in the industry are receptive when their most dependable employees refer friends and family for open positions. When you bring in additional people, employers get more workers they trust, and you get to work and commute alongside people you already know. 

If you’re convinced to give medical device assembly a try, working with a recruiter throughout the hiring process can make life easier. A recruiter can prepare you by setting expectations with your employer, help resolve payment problems, advocate for you, and help you develop additional skills that may help your career later. 

Medical device kitting is a good job with a good wage, and companies may be hiring near you. To find out more, check out the Aerotek job board.