If you’re looking to make a fresh start in manufacturing, there are numerous roles beyond the typical assembly line that may be a perfect fit for your skills and career goals. Manufacturing offers a variety of unique and rewarding positions, many of which are often overlooked. Here are some roles to consider as you plan your next career move in the industry.
Quality Control Inspector
For those with an eye for detail, a role as a Quality Control Inspector could be rewarding. QC Inspectors play a vital role in ensuring products meet quality and safety standards before they reach customers. This role typically involves inspecting materials, testing products, and documenting findings, which makes it ideal for people who enjoy hands-on work and are passionate about maintaining high standards.
Skills Needed
Attention to detail, basic knowledge of inspection tools, and an understanding of quality assurance processes.
Why It’s Great
This role offers a blend of independent work and teamwork, and it’s a good entry point into quality assurance and management positions.
Machine Operator
If you’re mechanically inclined and enjoy working with equipment, consider a position as a Machine Operator. Machine Operators are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery, often on the production floor. This role can be an excellent stepping stone for those interested in technical and mechanical fields.
Skills Needed
Familiarity with machinery, troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.
Why It’s Great
Machine Operator roles are in high demand, offer competitive pay, and provide hands-on experience with industrial equipment—valuable skills that can open doors to advancement in manufacturing.
Forklift Operator
Forklift Operators are essential to the logistics and warehousing side of manufacturing. They’re responsible for moving materials, loading and unloading shipments, and storing products correctly. This role can be a great fit for individuals who enjoy operating machinery and have a knack for organization.
Skills Needed
Forklift certification, spatial awareness, and the ability to follow safety protocols.
Why It’s Great
Forklift Operator roles often offer flexible hours and overtime opportunities, and the skills are transferable to many other industries.
Maintenance Technician
Manufacturing facilities rely on Maintenance Technicians to keep machinery and equipment working properly. This role might be perfect if you’re skilled in troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance. Maintenance Technicians perform regular inspections, handle repairs, and ensure that production runs smoothly without interruptions.
Skills Needed
Technical skills, knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, and experience with repair tools.
Why It’s Great
Maintenance Technicians are highly valued in manufacturing, and their specialized skills often come with job security, growth potential, and strong earning potential.
Production Planner
Production Planners coordinate the manufacturing schedule to ensure that products are made efficiently and meet deadlines. If you have strong organizational and communication skills, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the production process from a planning perspective.
Skills Needed
Organization, attention to detail, and the ability to work with cross-functional teams.
Why It’s Great
Production Planners are critical in maximizing efficiency and can move into higher-level operational roles over time.
Your Next Manufacturing Job
Manufacturing offers a range of unique career paths beyond traditional roles, each with opportunities for growth and development. Whether you’re interested in quality control, machinery, logistics, maintenance, or planning, a manufacturing position could be the perfect next step in your career journey. Explore these roles and find the one that aligns with your skills and goals for a fulfilling career in manufacturing.
