Make Yourself More Marketable When Looking for a Manufacturing Job

Manufacturing Jobs

 

The U.S. manufacturing industry may not be the same as it was 25 or 30 years ago, but businesses are still building things in America. And where there’s work to be done, there’s going to be jobs.

But there’s a catch. Manufacturing workers need to have the skills and credentials that companies look for today. This means your average assembly line worker two to three decades ago would have a hard time getting that same job today.

In exchange for higher credentials, manufacturing workers can expect to find good jobs—the kind that can sustain a middle-class lifestyle. Here’s what you need to find a job in manufacturing today.

  1. Math and Communication Skills

Working with the cutting-edge equipment in many factories and other manufacturing facilities requires a basic understanding of algebra and computational skills. And because manufacturing workers often work as teams, it is important that they are able to communicate effectively. This shouldn’t be too much of an issue if you’re going through college or vocational school. But these skills are often unpolished at the high school level.

  1. Reliability

Although it goes without saying, all employees should be reliable. Yet, it’s surprisingly hard to find manufacturing workers who are consistently punctual and have initiative. It’s a good idea to build some work experience in construction, food service, or even the hospitality industry which will show employers you’re someone who can show up on time and be relied on.

  1. Clean Drug Test

Looser drug laws mean manufacturing employers need workers to pass a standard drug test. Given that manufacturing jobs often involve working with hazardous machinery in demanding environments, employers naturally want workers who stay away from any kind of drug use. This includes marijuana, even if it’s legal in some states.

  1. Technical Training

A high school graduate can make anywhere between $11 and $15 for an entry-level manufacturing position. With more experience and on-the-job training, your hourly rate will see a commensurate increase as well. The key is investing in the kind of training that will actually benefit you. There are many vocational courses and certifications out there, but none of them are exactly cheap. So, choose something that will help you chart your course in the manufacturing industry.

  1. Knowledge of Manufacturing Work

Of course, anyone looking to enter the manufacturing industry should know what they’re getting themselves into. Whether you’re looking for opportunities for welders, electricians, or press machinists, do your due diligence to make your job search more likely to result in success. 

If your search for a manufacturing job needs a little push in the right direction, let the staffing services experts of Star Staffing help you. Contact Star Staffing to learn more about our staffing solutions in the manufacturing industry.