In this blog, you can expect to learn all about the manufacturing job landscape, its perks, and how you can start or continue your career in this expansive sector.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Careers in the manufacturing industry
- Are factory jobs good?
- How to get into manufacturing
- Where to find good-paying factory jobs
Careers In the Manufacturing Industry
Manufacturing isn't just about assembling parts. It's a multifaceted industry with a variety of roles that cater to different skills and interests. Here are five good factory jobs you’ll find in the manufacturing sector:
1. CNC Machinist
CNC Machinists are highly skilled workers who work with computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines. They read blueprints and part drawings, write programs that machines follow to produce precision parts, and troubleshoot mechanical issues. Some CNC Machinists specialize in specific types of machines, while others are well-versed in many different machines used across manufacturing plants.
2. Industrial Maintenance Technician
Every piece of machinery requires upkeep. Industrial Maintenance Technicians ensure the proper functioning of equipment, machinery, and systems used in industrial settings. The main goal of industrial maintenance is to keep factories running smoothly to minimize downtime and ultimately increase profitability.
3. Production Manager
An Industrial Production Manager supervises the daily operations of manufacturing plants—they may run an entire plant or oversee a specific area of the manufacturing process. Industrial Production Managers are ultimately responsible for ensuring that goods are produced on time and within budget.
4. Quality Assurance Specialist
Quality is the bedrock of manufacturing. A Quality Assurance Specialist meticulously inspects final products to ensure each adheres to stringent quality standards. Their responsibilities include developing and implementing quality control procedures, testing product performance, and identifying and addressing quality issues within the production process.
5. Logistics Coordinator
Once produced, manufactured goods need to reach their final destination on time and in optimal condition. A Logistics Coordinator in manufacturing oversees the efficient movement and storage of goods and materials throughout the production process. They manage inventory levels, ensure optimal warehousing strategies, schedule transportation of goods, and handle essential documentation.
This is not a comprehensive list of careers in the manufacturing industry, but it gives you an idea of some good factory jobs that are available.
Are Factory Jobs Good?
Though there are some common misconceptions around the trades, working in a factory as a skilled worker provides a range of benefits:
- In-Demand: As technology continues to advance and the skilled trades shortage continues, tradesmen are in demand across the trades, but especially in the manufacturing sector where technical skills are increasingly desired.
- Stable Employment: The manufacturing industry often presents long-term job security as it significantly contributes to the global economy. While some good factory jobs are seasonal, certain sectors produce essential goods that are always in demand.
- Well-Paying: Due to the specialized skills often required in manufacturing, there are many good paying factory jobs that offer competitive compensation compared to other industries.
- Innovative Environment: As technology continues to advance, manufacturing becomes a hub of innovation, giving tradesmen the opportunity to work with cutting-edge machinery born out of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
- Skill Development: With the Fourth Industrial Revolution transforming factories, careers in the manufacturing industry require future-ready skillsets. Manufacturers are investing in upskilling their workers to close the skills gap.
So, are factory jobs good? We think so. Is factory work hard? It depends on your definition of “hard,” but we see them as challenging in the best way!
Now, if you’re interested in pursuing careers in the manufacturing industry, let’s take a look at how to get into manufacturing.
How to Get Into Manufacturing
While manufacturing seems intricate, there are multiple pathways to enter this dynamic sector:
Technical Schools
Technical schools, often known as vocational or trade schools, are specialized educational institutions that focus on teaching skills required for specific jobs in industries like manufacturing.
- Curriculum Integration: Courses are designed to integrate theoretical classroom sessions with lab or workshop experiences, ensuring students grasp both the conceptual and practical aspects of their chosen field.
- Industry-Specific Equipment: Students get the opportunity to familiarize themselves with machinery and tools they'll encounter in real-world manufacturing environments, preparing them for the job from day one.
- Certifications: Many technical schools provide certifications upon completion, validating the skills of graduates and making them more appealing to potential employers.
- Shorter Duration: Compared to traditional four-year degrees, technical school programs often have shorter durations, enabling students to enter the workforce more quickly.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are golden gateways to the manufacturing world. They offer real-world experience, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and often segue into full-time positions.
- Earn While You Learn: Unlike traditional education pathways where students spend money, apprenticeships allow individuals to earn a salary while gaining experience.
- Structured Learning: Apprenticeships are structured, typically combining periods of on-the-job training with classroom learning. This ensures a well-rounded skill set.
- Networking: Working alongside industry professionals offers apprentices the chance to build a network in their industry, paving the way for future job opportunities.
- Recognized Qualifications: Once completed, apprenticeships often lead to nationally recognized qualifications, further enhancing employability.
- Direct Transition: Given the immersive nature of apprenticeships, employers often retain apprentices as full-time employees upon program completion, ensuring job security.
On-the-Job Training
Some manufacturers value in-house training. They hire novices, providing them with comprehensive training tailored to the specific job they were hired for.
- Tailored Training: On-the-job training ensures that workers are trained specifically for the roles and responsibilities they will handle within that company.
- Immediate Application: As workers learn, they simultaneously apply their knowledge in real-time, reinforcing their skills and allowing for immediate feedback.
- Adaptability: Such training allows for immediate course correction. If a worker struggles in one area, additional support or training can be provided.
- Engaged Learning: Since on-the-job training is directly related to tasks new hires will be handling, it tends to be more engaging and relatable, leading to better knowledge retention.
- Enhanced Team Collaboration: On-the-job training often involves interaction with various departments and team members, promoting a sense of teamwork and fostering a collaborative work environment.
One of the biggest benefits of taking one of these pathways instead of going to a 4-year college is the time and cost savings. These options are much more affordable and take less time than earning a college education.
Find Good-Paying Factory Jobs Today
Securing the right manufacturing job requires more than just skills; it's about connections and fit. As a premier trades travel staffing agency, Skillwork is the bridge between tradesmen and employers. Using a travel staffing model, we specialize in matching tradesmen with employers across the United States.
- Wide Network: Skillwork has an expansive network, ensuring you get a job that fits your skills, preferences, and personality.
- Flexibility: With Skillwork, you can choose the location and duration of your next gig, exposing you to new personal and professional experiences.
- Top-Tier Compensation: At Skillwork, we ensure that you're hired somewhere that values your expertise and offers competitive compensation.
If you’re looking for manufacturing opportunities in the U.S., apply to become a Skillworker so we can help you find good-paying factory jobs today.