According to Statista, approximately 13.89 million people were employed in the manufacturing industry in the U.S. in 2020. If you would like to join them, you stand a better chance of finding the right manufacturing job when you spend time preparing for your search, your application, and your interview. Get started by checking out the following helpful information on how to find and land a job in manufacturing.
Research the types of manufacturing jobs available
Manufacturing jobs are very varied, so you should begin your job-seeking journey by looking at the different types of positions available. They include roles like warehouse worker, assembler, quality control inspector, millwright, and plant manager, to name just a few.
You should also look at the different sectors you could work in. Manufacturing jobs are available in sectors like construction, textiles, healthcare, technology, and the military.
It is also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the most in-demand manufacturing jobs. By applying for positions that are in high demand, you will be able to find a job much more easily.
At present, in-demand manufacturing jobs include laborers, metal and plastic machine workers, welders, mechanical engineers, and industrial production managers.
Assess your skills and qualifications
Once you have looked at the various options for job roles, sectors, and the most in-demand positions, you should assess your skills and qualifications. There are lots of jobs in the manufacturing sector available to unskilled workers. Similarly, there are many positions available to people with the right qualifications and experience for the role.
If you want a position that demands qualifications and expert knowledge, you could embark on a degree program to gain the qualifications and skills required. For instance, if you decide your aim is to become a mechanical engineer, you will need to complete a four-year undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering to learn how machines and mechanical systems work.
On the other hand, you may be more interested in working in a role that does not require qualifications, such as a machinist. But if you plan on working as a machine operator, you will land a job more easily if you are knowledgeable about a variety of machines, such as a lathe, a mill, or a used CNC routing machine.
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How to find a manufacturing job
Once you have determined what type of manufacturing job you are looking for and you are ready to begin your search, you face the challenge of actually finding work. Here are some of the best methods of looking for open positions.
Search job listings
Online job listings should be your first port of call. Look at the best job listing sites for the manufacturing industry and then use each one every day; listings can change quickly.
You should also look at listings in your local newspaper and job agencies. Employ other methods to find a manufacturing job as well, though. The more proactive and focused you are, the quicker you will find a position.
Make use of your personal connections
Using personal connections is another way to find a job in manufacturing. If you know people who work in the industry, they can be valuable resources.
They can provide you with first-hand information about the companies they work for and keep you informed when positions open up. They could also connect you with HR departments to help speed up the hiring process or use their own networks to help you find positions at other companies.
Attend job fairs
Attending job fairs is another option you should pursue. Many manufacturing companies attend fairs, and they are always actively looking for new candidates.
You can make connections at job fairs, which could lead to an interview offer later down the line. You could even secure an interview with a company straight away.
How to land a manufacturing job
Finding positions that you want to apply for can be challenging, but with the right attitude and determination, you could find the right ones much more easily.
However, searching for jobs is only half the battle. The last stage is the most crucial. To actually land the job you want, you need to spend time preparing your application and preparing for an interview.
Preparing your job application
Your job application is the first point of contact that a prospective employer has with you, so it is vital that you demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job, display information in a professional and coherent manner, and do not make any errors on your application.
If you think you will get hired by using a generic resume or cover letter that you find online and tweak, you need to think again. Employers will see straight through such tactics.
They want to feel confident in you as a person and your abilities, so highlight your strengths in a transparent, enticing, and distinctive way.
In addition to making your application unique, confident, and easily readable, remember that the most important thing is to show you have the skills and experience for the position. So, make sure you demonstrate that in your application.
Preparing for your interview
Do not think you can win your interview. The more time you spend preparing for the interview process, the better you will come across and the more likely you will be hired.
Remember, your potential employer will be interviewing lots of candidates, so it is important that you make a better impression than your competition. Even if you have the best application in the world, employers will not hire you if you do not meet their expectations during the interview process, so preparation really is invaluable.
Make sure you dress in a presentable way, be aware of how your body language can send out signals, and go through a list of likely questions the interviewer will ask so you can be ready with the right responses.
Be confident, but not arrogant, as well as friendly, to help seal the deal. Basically, the more prepared you are, the more likely you will shine during the interview and get hired.
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