When researching roles in manufacturing and production, the broadness of the industry can be overwhelming to prospective applicants – especially those that are totally new to the field. Comprised of a wide range of roles and sub industries, there is no set route to follow when embarking on a career in manufacturing and production – so it’s important to understand your options. Once a desired role has been selected, it is then important to understand the requirements for that role, in addition to having researched any changes or trends in that particular sector. Having up to date knowledge about your desired role and the challenges impacting its industry is also key to standing out to prospective employers.
In this blog from BMR Solutions,we offer advice and guidance surrounding careers in production and manufacturing. We will include the types of roles available, their requirements and tips on how to produce a successful application.
What is Manufacturing and Production?
The terms ‘manufacturing’ and ‘production’ are frequently grouped together in reference to industries that create products directly from raw components and materials. Manufacturers work to supply products to a wide variety of industries, these include:
- Food Production
- Textiles and Apparel
- Wood, Paper and Printing
- Computers and Electronics
- Transportation Equipment
As technologies and production methods have advanced, different sub-methods of manufacturing have emerged – these include physical, chemical and mechanical manufacturing. Due to the wide-ranging nature of manufacturing and production positions available, the workplace environment can vary across roles. Production and manufacturing roles can be found in a variety of locations – factories, plants, mills and even in the home.
In addition to working within the manufacturing process itself, there are a variety of additional roles that are essential to the smooth-running of production and manufacturing operations. The need for workers providing machinery maintenance, installation and programming is ever-present across all branches of the industry.
What roles are available in Manufacturing and Production?
As noted, the manufacturing and production industry is widely varied and covers a variety of sub-industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, textiles and automobiles. Naturally, each of these sub-fields poses different skill requirements for its workers. In addition, it is worth noting that different elements of each of these processes will require different skills and experience.
Below, we will outline a selection of in-demand jobs that are available within manufacturing and production, signposting some key information about each and offering tips for applying for such roles. To talk to a member of our expert team about your next manufacturing and production role, get in touch today.
Assemblers
Across all branches of the production and manufacturing sector, assemblers are in high demand. An assembler’s primary responsibilities include putting items and products together – this can be with tools, machines or their hands. In addition to practical skills, high levels of literary competence can be required to read detailed instructions and create records about a product’s performance, including any faults that may arise. Under this umbrella, roles centred around product maintenance and performance control are also listed. Assemblers will also have to demonstrate interpersonal skills through their collaboration with other workers along the production line.
Assembler job titles include processer, warehouse associate, painters and coaters and material handler – so keep an eye out for these when looking for vacancies. According to online figures, the national average salary for assembler roles is £10.04 per hour, with inevitable variation across employers.
Machinists
Machinists, also referred to as operators – are responsible for setting up, maintaining and operating machinery and computer technology that is used within the manufacturing process. Machinists will also play an advisory role when selecting what machinery is best suited to the performance of a particular task. In order to fulfil these responsibilities, machinists will be required to review technical drawings and blueprints frequently. As a result, it is worthwhile noting down any experience with these skills on applications. In comparison to other jobs in production and manufacturing, machinists require higher levels of training. This training can be received either on the job or via apprenticeship schemes and technical schools. Machinist job titles can include plant operator, CNC operator and equipment technician.
According to information available online, the national average salary is currently at £10.34 per hour, with inevitable variation across employers.
Quality Control Inspectors
Quality control inspectors are vital to ensuring that the products and materials produced by a production line are free of defects. Quality control inspectors are also responsible for ensuring that no element of the outcome product is hazardous or unfit for distribution. As inspection is not simply done by eye, quality control inspectors are also responsible for ensuring that inspection tools and equipment are in place and running efficiently. Job titles for this role include – quality engineer, quality control analyst and quality manager.
According to information available online, the national average salary is currently at £11.04 per hour, with inevitable variation across employers.
Find Your Next Role in Manufacturing and Production with BMR Solutions
If you’re on the lookout for your next role in the manufacturing and production industry, the team of industry experts at BMR Solutions are on hand to advise you. We are recruitment specialists working in the South West, helping talented candidates find the right role for them. With a host of valuable connections and local links, our clients receive access to all of the best opportunities for their desired role.
To speak to a member of our team about how we can help you with your next career move, contact us today. If you’d prefer not to call, submit your CV online and our team of recruiters will get to work finding opportunities for you. In addition, you can also sign up for job alerts, so you never miss out on great opportunities.
