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Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters

Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters is the O*NET name for people who perform precision assembling or adjusting, within narrow tolerances, of timing devices such as digital clocks or timing devices with electrical or electronic components. The skills rated most useful are repairing, troubleshooting, and quality control analysis. One core duty is to assemble and install components of timepieces to complete mechanisms, using watchmakers' tools and loupes. Its interest code is RCI. Realistic leads at 6.7 out of 7, so expect hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world, with Conventional next at 4.6. Getting in usually takes a few months to a year of learning on the job, a level O*NET calls some preparation. People who want hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

Perform precision assembling or adjusting, within narrow tolerances, of timing devices such as digital clocks or timing devices with electrical or electronic components.

Main tasks

  • Assemble and install components of timepieces to complete mechanisms, using watchmakers' tools and loupes.
  • Observe operation of timepiece parts and subassemblies to determine accuracy of movement, and to diagnose causes of defects.
  • Test operation and fit of timepiece parts and subassemblies, using electronic testing equipment, tweezers, watchmakers' tools, and loupes.
  • Replace specified parts to repair malfunctioning timepieces, using watchmakers' tools, loupes, and holding fixtures.
  • Disassemble timepieces such as watches, clocks, and chronometers so that repairs can be made.
  • Clean and lubricate timepiece parts and assemblies, using solvents, buff sticks, and oil.

Skills

  • Repairing
  • Troubleshooting
  • Quality Control Analysis
  • Operations Monitoring
  • Monitoring
  • Critical Thinking

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You want to start work after a short stretch of training.
  • You are comfortable relying on repairing and troubleshooting.

May not suit you if

  • You would rather stay away from physical, hands-on tasks.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 1.0 out of 7 here.
  • You want a career built on years of advanced study.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code RCI takes the three highest, and Realistic comes first here.

Preparation

Some preparation. Most people start with a high school diploma, then learn from experienced coworkers over a few months to a year.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED). This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Calibration Specialist
  • Calibrator
  • Clockmaker
  • Horologist
  • Time Stamp Assembler

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.