Parts Cleaner

Your Fit

Income

$39K

Preparation

Some

Growth

3.8%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Parts Cleaner?

A Parts Cleaner is a professional responsible for cleaning parts and components used in various industries, such as automotive, manufacturing, and aviation. This role involves using various methods and equipment to ensure parts are free of contaminants and ready for assembly or use.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Parts Cleaner.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Parts Cleaner earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$31K per year	$35K per year	$39K per year	$46K per year	$54K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $8.72K below the national average.

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What does a Parts Cleaner do?

Work environment

Parts Cleaners typically work in manufacturing plants, automotive shops, or maintenance facilities. The environment can be noisy and may involve exposure to chemicals and machinery. Safety protocols are crucial due to the use of cleaning solvents and equipment.

Quick task list

Uses various cleaning methods such as solvent cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning, or sandblasting.
Inspects parts for cleanliness and damage.
Operates and maintains cleaning equipment.
Handles and properly disposes of cleaning solvents and chemicals.
Keeps a clean and organized workspace.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Automotive Parts Cleaning: Specializing in cleaning components used in automotive repair and assembly.
Industrial Parts Cleaning: Focusing on cleaning parts used in industrial manufacturing and machinery.
Aerospace Parts Cleaning: Cleaning and maintaining components used in the aerospace industry, often requiring precision and adherence to strict standards.
Electronic Component Cleaning: Specializing in cleaning parts used in electronic devices and equipment.
Hazardous Material Handling: Specializing in cleaning parts that have been exposed to or contain hazardous materials, requiring knowledge of safety and disposal protocols.

Description

In the role of a Parts Cleaner, attention to detail and adherence to safety standards are paramount. Professionals in this field must be familiar with different types of parts and materials and understand the appropriate cleaning techniques for each. This might involve manual cleaning or the use of machines like pressure washers, ultrasonic cleaners, or sandblasting equipment. Knowing the properties of various cleaning agents and solvents is also essential, as is understanding their impact on different materials.

Parts Cleaners play a critical role in the maintenance and efficiency of operations in various industries. Clean parts are essential for the proper functioning of machinery and equipment, and in some industries like aerospace and healthcare, the level of cleanliness directly impacts safety and performance. Therefore, a thorough inspection of parts after cleaning is a crucial step to ensure that they meet the required standards.

The job requires one to be on their feet for extended periods and may involve lifting heavy objects. While it can be physically demanding, it offers the satisfaction of ensuring the reliability and safety of crucial components in various fields. Keeping an organized workspace and maintaining the equipment is also part of the job responsibilities.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the functionality and safety of machinery and equipment.
The hands-on nature of the work and seeing tangible results.
Being part of a critical process in various manufacturing and maintenance operations.

You might make a good Parts Cleaner if you are...

Detail-oriented and committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
Interested in working with a variety of machinery and equipment.
Able to follow safety guidelines and handle chemicals responsibly.
Comfortable with physical tasks and standing for long periods.
Organized and capable of maintaining a clean work environment.

Pros:

Steady demand in various industries.
Opportunities to work with a variety of equipment and technologies.
Physical activity can be rewarding for those who prefer active work.

Cons:

Potential exposure to chemicals and hazardous materials.
The work can be repetitive and physically demanding.
May require working in noisy and busy industrial environments.

How to become a Parts Cleaner

Typical education

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient, with most skills and specific procedures learned on the job. Some positions may require additional certification in handling hazardous materials.

High school preparation

Courses:

Science courses, particularly chemistry, for understanding cleaning chemicals and their effects.
Shop classes or vocational training for hands-on experience.
Physical education to build stamina and physical resilience.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in team sports for physical conditioning.
Joining environmental clubs to learn about responsible chemical usage and disposal.
Volunteering in community clean-up projects for practical experience.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in equipment maintenance or industrial cleaning.
Certification courses in handling hazardous materials.
Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in manufacturing or maintenance facilities for hands-on experience.

More resources

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Provides guidelines on workplace safety and handling hazardous materials.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) - Offers resources on environmental health and safety.
Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) - Provides information on the latest cleaning technologies and industry standards.
International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) - Offers training and certification programs for cleaning professionals.

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