Want to Work in Manufacturing? 4 Specific Types of Jobs to Look For

Manufacturing is defined as the process where goods are converted into finished products that target to meet a customer's specifications or expectations. The goods used for manufacturing include raw materials, and component parts to be assembled. This takes place usually in a man-machine setup which is a factory, mill, or plant where skilled labor operates to produce on a large scale. Food and beverage, textile, computer, and electronics petroleum and others form part of the larger manufacturing industry that has employed over 12 million Americans according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics last updated in March 2020.

Although this industry has increasingly applied the use of robotics and computers, there are skilled services that require workers, and to date, there are still gaps in the industry because there are no qualified applicants. Employees in manufacturing earned 21% above the average earnings of their counterparts in the labor market, making it an area that one would consider applying their skills. Consider the following areas:

Power Plant Operators, Dispatchers, and Distributors

These workers control most of the machinations in the factory that does the generation and distribution of electric power. They are some of the most highly paid, due to the level of specialization of their skills. They should ensure machines are working at their optimum level, and be extremely safety conscious to ensure safety. A significant experience is key.

Nanotechnology Engineers

Mechanical Engineers generally research design tests, and inspect mechanical devices. Since most industries are following newer trends, this branch of engineering seeks to bring new solutions in the fields of health, science, and technology, nanotechnologists take advanced materials and supplies and transform them into new and exciting goods that satisfy the dynamic market of microelectronics. Manufacturers are adopting this and other sophisticated technology to lower costs and meet specialized needs like in the lateral flow test assembly kitting field.

Quality Control Inspector

This job is applied in manufacturing settings of all types. However, specific duties vary from industry to industry, but since a successful business targets to meet or exceed its customers' needs, the quality control inspector spot checks a company's products and monitors the manufacturing equipment. Advanced training is therefore a requirement.

Customer Service Jobs

Good businesses have the ability to serve and retain customers, and this loyalty is attained if all the elements of good customer service are in place; human interaction during the transaction is key, all the way through to return policies. Some industries recruit customer relationship managers to streamline customer service interactions. Training in Business administration is key.

Word on the streets is that manufacturing jobs are on the decline due to the use of robots. However, with the constant need for skilled employees to command these robots, provide a human touch in the production and supply line, and attrition due to workers attaining retirement age, there are still opportunities for those interested in the field.