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Is a career in manufacturing right for you? Whether you’re just starting your career, or looking for a new path, it’s a great time to get into manufacturing.
Workers are in high demand
Manufacturers are in need of workers. They’re experiencing a skills gap, meaning that there aren’t enough experienced workers to fill all the available jobs. That means it isn’t difficult to find work, and plenty of employers are willing to train new employees who don’t have experience. There’s also a generational gap in the workforce in manufacturing, with many workers nearing retirement age, meaning that even more jobs will come available in the future.
Good pay and benefits
Many manufacturing companies offer their employees benefits like health insurance, retirement packages and generous paid time off. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary in manufacturing is $42,000. Though pay will vary depending on company, location, and experience level, you can make a good living working in manufacturing.
Opportunities for advancement
As you gain experience and add to your skillset, you’ll be rewarded. Skilled and experienced workers in trades like CNC Machining, Welding, and Fabricating earn salaries as high as $75,000 or more annually. In a competitive job market short on talent, you can expect to earn raises throughout your career as you develop and gain experience. Once you start your career in manufacturing, there are opportunities for advancement into management positions, or into other departments of the company such as operations, sales, or customer support.
Work with your hands
A career in manufacturing gives you the opportunity to work with your hands every day. There’s something fulfilling about making something real that you can use or hold. Manufacturers take raw materials and turn them into something functional and useful, and it’s work that you can see the result of and take pride in doing every day.
Work consistent hours
The hours you work in manufacturing are consistent. Most manufacturing employees are assigned to a shift that they work each day. While it varies from company to company, there are opportunities in manufacturing to have a job that works four 10 hour shifts each week instead of a traditional five day schedule. If you like to have your days free, there are also opportunities to get a job working second or third shift, depending on the company. Regardless of the job you choose, you can count on having a consistent work schedule each week.
No degree required
Some jobs in manufacturing require an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree, but there are plenty of options that don’t require it. You don’t need to go to college first or take on student debt to start a career in manufacturing. Many companies offer on the job training or formal apprenticeships, and some will also pay you to attend a community college or training program to earn a certification or degree. One of the biggest perks of this career path is the opportunity to learn on the job while earning a paycheck. If you’re just starting your career, starting in manufacturing gives you the ability to earn money right away instead of paying for college and waiting to start your career.
