The manufacturing industry has a wide range of job positions that require different skill sets and abilities. Positions can range anywhere from management jobs to maintenance jobs.
With all the different types of manufacturing jobs out there, it can be difficult to know which is the best fit and what role you’ll find the most success in.
In this post, we’re breaking down 4 common types of manufacturing jobs. Once you know more about each of these positions, the job search process is easier and can be narrowed down to your specific skill set and experience.
Production Operator
A Production Operator is one of the positions within the production department. A Production Operator is commonly referred to as a Machine Operator.
Production Operators perform typical machine operations to produce product. For example, they use PLC/ HMIs to read, monitor, interact with, and respond to the machines. A Production Operator is responsible for loading raw materials into the machines, troubleshooting, and performing basic preventative maintenance.
Skills and abilities that make for a great Production Operator include:
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem solving skills
- The ability to work in teams
- The ability to follow processes
A high school diploma or GED is often required for a position like this. Employers usually look for individuals with prior experience in a related position. However, if that employer has a good training program in place prior experience isn’t a must. At Drylock Production Operators complete 4 weeks of training.
Quality Control Technician
A Quality Control Technician is one of the positions within the quality department. They test products and materials before, during, and after production to ensure that quality levels are met.
Quality Control Technicians report defects that could jeopardize customer satisfaction. They also help quarantine any product suspected of being defective. Along with that, Quality Control Technicians enter test data in Quality databases.
Skills and abilities that make for a great Quality Control Technician include:
- Detail oriented
- Ability to analyze and interpret data
- Computer and statistical skills as applicable to quality control inspection in the manufacturing field.
A high school diploma or GED is often required for a position like this. Employers will generally look for applicants with prior experience in quality control, but it is not always required.
Logistics Coordinator
A Logistics Coordinator is one of the positions within the Supply Chain department. They spend much of their time in the warehouse completing general warehouse duties.
Logistics Coordinators operate bailing equipment to bind and compress materials. They help keep production lines clear of scrap materials. It is also common for Logistics Coordinators to utilize forklifts or clamp trucks. They pick and place product in the warehouse. They also stage, check, and load customer orders.
Skills and abilities that make for a great Logistics Coordinator include:
- Effective communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to adapt to frequent changes
A high school diploma or GED is often required for a position like this. Employers look for individuals with prior experience in Logistics related fields, but it isn’t necessary. At Drylock Logistics Coordinators complete three weeks of training. By the end of training Logistics Coordinators will also become forklift certified.
Maintenance Technician
A Maintenance Technician is one of the positions within the maintenance department. They perform routine repairs and maintain machinery and mechanical equipment.
In a manufacturing environment Maintenance Technicians often perform preventative maintenance on the production equipment. Their job entails a lot of electrical or mechanical troubleshooting. They also help identify equipment and building problems.
Skills that make for a great maintenance technician include:
- Strong troubleshooting skills in pneumatics, electrical, and mechanical equipment
- Ability to read blueprints and schematics
- Ability to use shop equipment and electrical instruments
A high school diploma or GED is required for a position like this. A technical degree is also preferred. Employers often look for individuals with prior experience in the maintenance field.
Which Job Type Is Best
After reviewing these 4 types of manufacturing jobs, choosing the best is based solely on personal preference. Each position plays a valuable role in the company, so evaluate yourself. Review what your skills are and determine how those skills align with each job type.
Here at Drylock Technologies, we are always looking for good people to add to our team. If you are interested in any of these job types or want to learn about other manufacturing jobs, contact us. We offer competitive starting wages, great benefits, and great employee growth potential.