Manufacturing Job Overview and Description

Due to the onset of technological advancements that continue to replace manufacturing workers that make up a large portion of the worker pool, manufacturing jobs have experienced a decline in the need for workers. Many processes have become computer-controlled, which has led to a projected 4 percent decline in in manufacturing occupations.


What are Manufacturing jobs?

Manufacturing jobs are those that create new products directly from raw materials or components. These jobs create goods for all types of industries, including textiles, food and beverage, computer electronics, furniture, appliances, wood, paper, and printing.

Some duties a production worker may have would be testing products or subassemblies for functionality or quality, troubleshoot problems with equipment or devices, collect waste in correctly labeled containers and transfer them to collection areas, assemble products, prepare materials, and set up and operate equipment in accordance with current good manufacturing practices and standard operating procedures.


Manufacturing Job Overview

Many jobs take place in a factory or warehouse setting. Workers may be around and operate loud and heavy machinery and be responsible for light maintenance of machinery and clean up of their work area.

In some states, workers may be required to work mandatory overtime to meet production quotas. Many workers work full-time and may work different shifts throughout the day as many facilities work around the clock.


What are the different types of Manufacturing jobs?

  • Assemblers and Fabricators. Assemble finished products and the parts that go with them.
  • Food and Tobacco Processing Workers. Operate equipment that mixes, cooks, or processes ingredients used in the manufacturing of food production.
  • Machinists and Tool and Die Makers. Set and operate a variety of computer-controlled and mechanically controlled machine tools to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools.
  • Quality Control Inspectors. Examine products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications.
  • Welders, cutters, solderers, and Brazers. Use hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to manipulate metal parts.
  • Woodworkers. Manufacture a variety of products from wood.
  • Stationary and Boiler Operators. Control stationary engines, boilers, and other mechanical equipment to provide utilities for building or industrial purposes.

What type of education do you need for an Manufacturing job?

Most manufacturing jobs required a high school diploma or equivalent. Many jobs will provide on the job training, though applicants may also take courses in high school, or vocational school to gain skills for jobs such as welding, cutting, or soldering. Certification is also provided at many welding schools which would give an applicant a better chance in getting hired.

According to the BLS, much of manufacturing employment has shifted to a demand for high-skill workers; workers who possess higher skill levels in engineering, computer programming, software development, etc., are becoming more sought after.

Course helpful for applicants seeking employment in manufacturing are mathematics, science, mechanical and technical subjects.


What is a typical salary for a Manufacturing job?

The median annual wage for manufacturing occupations is around $33,990. Workers in more specialized roles will stand to make more than the median annual wage. For example, Stationary engineers and boiler operators make around $59,890.


What are the job requirements for Manufacturing jobs?

The type of requirements will depend on the job, but generally workers may be required to stand and walk throughout their shifts and may be required to lift and move heavy items. Workers should have a good idea of standard procedures and proper handling of equipment to prevent injuries.

Math and mechanical skills are also beneficial to a manufacturing worker, as well as technical skills that gives workers the ability to understand technical manuals, schematics, and blueprints for a wide range of products and machines in order to manufacture the products properly.


Where can you find a Manufacturing job listing?

You can search for a manufacturing job listing through websites like CareerBuilder, Monster, Indeed, SimplyHired, and JobsInEachState.com. You can also check your local papers or do a general web search for your area for manufacturing jobs.

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