The manufacturing industry is blowing up right now. There is higher demand, and many employers in Connecticut are offering higher wages and better benefits. Not to mention, there is no shortage of entry-level positions to help you get your foot in the door. You might start as an assembly worker, machine operator, inspection employee, or warehouse associate.
Why Work in Manufacturing?
As mentioned above, the manufacturing industry is booming right now. There is no shortage of job openings, especially in entry-level positions. So, even if you haven’t worked in manufacturing before, there is likely a job opening that fits your skillset and level of experience. There are also a lot of benefits to working in the manufacturing industry.
- There are opportunities to learn new skills.
- Safety is a priority.
- You get to create tangible things.
- There is often a career ladder for you to climb within the company.
- You get to experience and learn new technology.
- Manufacturing employees get to be part of a team.
- There is a wide range of jobs offered within the industry.
- Employers offer competitive pay and benefits packages.
Types of Manufacturing Jobs
One of the benefits of entering the manufacturing industry is that there is a wide range of jobs available. So, depending on what interests you, there is likely a position open to meet your career goals and salary needs. Here are a few types of jobs you might encounter when entering the industry.
Administrative
Although many of the positions in the manufacturing industry are hands-on in the warehouse, there are plenty of administrative jobs that need to be done as well. Admins in manufacturing typically assist managers, monitor schedules, ensure materials are stocked, and handle day-to-day administrative tasks.
Assembly
Assembly line workers have a large role in manufacturing. These individuals are the people who generally collect materials to create products. They also help identify issues in the production line and maintain consistency. Assembly workers will also use machinery and other tools to assist in product creation.
Inspections
Manufacturing inspectors’ sole responsibility is to ensure quality control. They will conduct tests on products, operate software, read product blueprint and specification sheets, and write inspection reports. These individuals play a crucial role in the manufacturing industry.
Machine Operator
Working as a machine operator is another potential job you might land when entering the manufacturing industry. The daily duties of an operator may vary, depending on the employer. However, they are typically responsible for inspecting machines before operating. They also help with maintaining compliance, safety standards, and consistent production.
Warehouse Worker
There are also plenty of openings for general warehouse personnel. While this is an entry-level position that doesn’t typically require much experience, it can lead to other opportunities in the industry. Warehouse work offers a wide range of jobs from picking and packing inventory for shipping to driving a forklift. Warehouse workers are usually held responsible for the cleanliness and safety of the work environment. They will also sometimes be asked to accept deliveries, unload trucks, and inspect inventory.
What Are the Necessary Qualifications?
Depending on what kind of job you are applying for within the industry, qualification requirements will vary. Usually, an entry-level manufacturing job will require you to have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. In some cases, you will also need at least two years of experience or additional certification.
However, it is important to keep in mind that many employers will help you get certifications and continue your education after they hire you. So, even if you don’t have the necessary certifications for the job you want now, they will continue your training. You will be able to grow and learn more on the job.
What Skills Are Used?
Of course, there are a number of skills you will use on the job in the manufacturing industry. As the short descriptions above explained, daily duties will vary depending on your role. Some positions will require you to work with machines directly, while others will focus on quality control. There are some skills that every manufacturing employee should have to be successful in their role.
- Manufacturing employees need to have strong attention to detail.
- Workers should have good critical thinking skills and be able to troubleshoot small problems.
- You will need to have good communication skills to be able to work with your fellow team members effectively.
- Having an interest and the desire to learn about new technology is also important. The tech you will work with on a daily basis will constantly be evolving.
- You will need to be dependable. Each employee plays a critical role in manufacturing.
- Employees should also be able to pick things up quickly. You will likely be cross-trained on how to perform multiple tasks.
Average Manufacturing Salaries
Depending on what kind of position you land in the manufacturing industry, salaries will vary. Assembly line workers in Connecticut, for instance, have an average base starting salary of $31,200 per year. Some positions will start you out earning more. There is also almost always the opportunity to get overtime hours and bonuses when you work in manufacturing as well. When all is said and done, you can expect to make between $15 and $20 per hour, plus benefits.
What is the Work Environment Like?
Manufacturing companies typically have a work culture centered around safety and productivity. Work conditions may vary, depending on where you are located. Some warehouses are climate-controlled, while others change temperatures with the seasons. In any manufacturing position, you can expect to be on your feet. There is a certain level of physical demand in working these positions.
You will also usually have a set schedule. There is not typically a lot of flexibility in the schedules you will work in manufacturing. Employers have set shifts for workers, and sometimes you will be able to choose what shift you are on. These shifts are usually first, second, or third. So, if you have a child’s school schedule to work around or you’re just not a morning person, there is usually a shift that will work for you.
How to Launch a Successful Career in Manufacturing
Launching a successful career in manufacturing can happen with ease, as long as you are willing to learn on the job and work hard. Employers are always looking for entry-level workers that will be willing to cross-train and learn everything they can about the company. The key to success in this industry is to be open to learning new things and taking advantage of promotion opportunities when they come up.
Work With A.R. Mazzotta to Get Started
If you are searching for a position in the manufacturing industry, working with a staffing firm like A.R. Mazzotta can help you find the job you are looking for. We can assist in placing you in seasonal positions, temp-to-hire, and full-time direct hire jobs throughout Connecticut. Best of all, we have access to dozens of immediate openings. On top of that, you will get to take advantage of the amazing benefits offered by A.R. Mazzotta, including:
- Paid holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas)
- Flexible paid time off after three months
- Health insurance
- Dental plan option
- Vision plan option
- AAA membership and discounts
- Monthly newsletter
Contact us to learn more about how we can help you kickstart your career in manufacturing.