5 Myths About Manufacturing Jobs

Manufacturing jobs come with several outdated and inaccurate myths.

In the past, manufacturing jobs had a connotation of being dirty, low-paying jobs.  These jobs were believed to be monotonous positions without very many opportunities to advance one’s career.

Fast forward to today’s fast paced manufacturing industry and you’ll see a clear difference between fact and fiction.

Myth #1: They Don’t Pay Very Well

Reality: In the Eau Claire area, many manufacturing positions are being paid $15-$20/hour, or nearly 2x-3x the state minimum wage.  When you add that to the fact that many manufacturers have very strong benefits packages, it makes the total compensation for manufacturing jobs a very strong part of the working economy.  For more information on the wages you can expect for manufacturing jobs in the Eau Claire area, see our blog post “Manufacturing Job Wages – What to Expect in the Eau Claire Area”

Myth #2: There Aren’t Advancement Opportunities

Reality: With the nationwide labor shortage around manufacturing positions, there is a very large number of positions open. But a labor shortage means that there are not only a large number of entry level positions to fill but there are also a large number of leadership positions that are regularly up for grabs.  The manufacturing industry rewards hard work and there are nearly endless opportunities for advancement for those who are willing to work hard and put in their time with a company that they want to grow with.

Myth #3: You Need a Technical Degree

Reality: Right now, there are many high paying and high quality manufacturing jobs open with no degree required.  Manufacturing employers recognize the present need to provide on-the-job training at no cost to employees. In fact, here at Drylock Technologies we provide 4 weeks of training to new employees, at FULL compensation rate. This means that we’re in a time where it’s relatively easy to enter into a new manufacturing career and climb the leadership ladder over time.

Myth #4: They Are Routine and Boring

Reality: In the past, a large number of manufacturing jobs were assembly line or manual labor positions.  In most manufacturing jobs today, a production operator is more likely to work with a robot than with a socket wrench. The manufacturing workplace is fast-paced and driven by production goals which depends on workers to be quick thinkers and effective problem solvers.

Myth #5: All Machine Operator Jobs Are the Same

Reality: Every employer uses different processes to make unique products with ever-changing technology and equipment. Machine operator jobs can have wide variations not only between companies but even between positions within the same company.  When individuals are looking for a new job, it can be equally important to find a job description that fits their interests as it is to find a job that pays what they’re expecting.