15 In-Demand Job Opportunities in Manufacturing

Entry-Level Jobs in Manufacturing

Here’s an overview of five common entry-level manufacturing jobs - including job descriptions, required skills, average salaries, and growth opportunities - to help you explore your options in the industry.

1. Assembler / Production Worker

Assemblers build products or subassemblies by following blueprints or schematics.

They use hand tools, machines, and automated systems to piece together components in industries like electronics, automotive, and consumer goods.

Key Skills:

• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Ability to read technical drawings.
• Attention to detail.
• Teamwork and communication.

Average Salary: The average annual salary for an assembler in the US is $80,588.

Growth Path: Assemblers can advance to roles like lead assembler and production supervisor or transition into specialized areas such as CNC operation or quality assurance.

2. Machine Operator

Machine operators set up, operate, and maintain machinery used in manufacturing processes. They ensure machines run smoothly, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime.

Key Skills:

• Mechanical aptitude.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding of safety protocols.

Average Salary: The average salary for a machine operator is $69,399 per year.

Growth Path: With experience, machine operators can move into roles such as maintenance technician, CNC programmer, or production manager.

3. Warehouse Associate

Warehouse associates handle the receipt, storage, and shipment of goods. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading trucks, organizing inventory, and preparing orders for delivery.

Key Skills:

• Physical stamina and strength.
• Organizational skills.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Attention to detail.

Average Salary: The average annual salary of a warehouse worker is $43,379.

Growth Path: Warehouse associates can progress to roles like inventory specialist, warehouse supervisor, or logistics coordinator.

4. Packaging Technician

Packaging technicians operate machinery that packages products for shipment. They ensure packaging meets quality standards and may also be involved in labeling and inspecting final products.

Key Skills:

• Mechanical skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Knowledge of safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues.

Average Salary: Packaging technicians earn an average of $39,198 per annum. 

Growth Path: Opportunities include advancing to roles like packaging supervisor, quality assurance technician, or process improvement specialist.

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5. Quality Control Inspector

Quality control inspectors examine products and materials for defects or deviations from specifications. They use measuring tools and testing equipment to ensure products meet quality standards.

Key Skills:

• Attention to detail.
• Familiarity with inspection tools like calipers, and micrometers.
• Understanding of quality standards and regulations.
• Analytical thinking.

Average Salary: The average annual salary of a quality control inspector is $77,325.

Growth Path: Quality control inspectors can advance to roles such as quality assurance manager, compliance officer, or process improvement analyst.

Skilled Trade Jobs in Manufacturing

The manufacturing industry thrives on the expertise of skilled tradespeople who keep operations running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. Skilled trade jobs in manufacturing often require more specialized training and hands-on experience. They also come with higher earning potential and long-term career stability.

Here’s a breakdown of key skilled trade jobs in manufacturing, including what they entail, the skills required, salary expectations, and paths for advancement

1. Maintenance Technician

Maintenance technicians ensure the optimal functionality of machines and systems in a manufacturing plant. Their work includes preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs.

Key Skills:

• Mechanical and electrical system repair.
• Preventative maintenance routines.
• Diagnostic and troubleshooting tools.
• Understanding of safety procedures.

Average Salary: The average salary of a maintenance technician is $55,091 per year.

Growth Path: Career advancement opportunities include roles like senior maintenance technician, maintenance supervisor, or facilities manager.

2. CNC Machinist

Computer numerical control (CNC) machinists operate and program precision machinery used to produce metal and plastic parts. These parts may be used across multiple industries, from aerospace and automotive to medical devices. 

Key Skills:

• Technical understanding of blueprints and CAD designs.
• Precision measurement and quality control.
• CNC programming and troubleshooting.
• Math and spatial reasoning skills.

Average Salary: CNC machinists earn an average annual salary of $81,036 in the US.

Growth Path: CNC Machinists can advance to become CNC programmers, manufacturing engineers, or shop supervisors.

3. Industrial Electrician

Industrial electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in factories and manufacturing facilities. Their work supports the safe operation of automated and energy-intensive systems.

Key Skills:

• Electrical wiring and circuitry.
• Reading schematics and technical documents.
• Adhering to National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
• Troubleshooting automation systems.

Average Salary: Industrial electricians in the US take home an average annual salary of $73,826.

Growth Path: Career advancement can lead to roles such as master electrician, controls technician, or electrical engineer.

4. Welders and Fabricators

Welders and fabricators join metal parts together through welding processes and build or repair components according to blueprints. They are essential in industries like automotive, shipbuilding, and heavy machinery.

Key Skills:

• Arc welding techniques.
• Reading and interpreting blueprints.
• Metalworking and fabrication tools.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and materials handling.

Average Salary: The average salary of a fabricator or welder is $71,275 per year in the US.

Growth Path: Welders and fabricators can move into supervisory roles like welding inspector or metal fabrication specialist. 

5. HVAC Technicians

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians, (HVAC) technicians ensure the smooth functioning of climate control systems in manufacturing facilities. They maintain systems that are vital to product quality and worker comfort.  

Key Skills:

• Installation and maintenance of HVAC systems.
• Understanding of electrical systems.
• Compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
• System diagnostics and efficiency optimization.

Average Salary: The average annual salary for an HVAC technician in the US is $58,686.

Growth Path: Technicians can progress to lead HVAC technician, facility operations manager, or energy efficiency specialist.

High-Tech and Advanced Manufacturing Roles

Manufacturing today is as much about code and circuitry as it is about machines and materials.

As factories become smarter and more automated, new roles that blend traditional mechanical know-how with digital skills are emerging.

These high-tech careers offer long-term job security, great pay, and a front-row seat to innovation.

1. Automation Technician

Automation technicians maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize computer-controlled systems used in production lines. They ensure machinery operates efficiently and without interruption.

Key Skills:

• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and sensor systems.
• Electrical troubleshooting and wiring.
• Equipment maintenance, calibration, and testing.
• Basic robotics and system integration.

Average Salary: Automation technicians in the US make an average of $96,350 per year. 

Growth Path: Can move into roles such as automation engineer, controls specialist, or maintenance supervisor.

2. Mechatronics Technician

Mechatronics technicians work at the intersection of mechanical, electrical, and computer systems to maintain and repair advanced machinery used in smart manufacturing.

Key Skills:

• Pneumatics and hydraulics.
• Robotics systems and motor controls.
• Electrical schematics and diagnostics.
• Embedded systems and microcontrollers.

Average Salary: The average annual salary of a mechatronics technician in the US is $60,664.

Growth Path: Progression into mechatronics engineering, system design, and technical project management roles.

3. 3D Printing Specialist

These specialists manage additive manufacturing equipment to create prototypes, tools, or production parts using 3D printing technologies.

Key Skills:

• CAD design and slicing software.
• Operation of FDM, SLA, and SLS machines.
• Material selection and post-processing.
• Troubleshooting print errors.

Average Salary: The average salary for a 3D printing technician in the US is $54,840 per annum.

Growth Path: Opportunities to advance into R&D, rapid prototyping, and additive manufacturing management.

4. Process Control Technician

Process control technicians monitor and adjust equipment used in continuous production environments, such as chemical, food, or pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Key Skills:

• Understanding of SCADA and DCS systems.
• Instrument calibration and maintenance.
• Data analysis and process optimization.
• Compliance with safety and quality standards.

Average Salary: Process control technicians in the US take home an average of $63,372 in annual salary. 

Growth Path: Can grow into roles like senior process technician, quality assurance lead, or plant operations supervisor.

5. Robotics Maintenance Technician

Robotics maintenance technicians maintain and repair industrial robots used for tasks like assembly, welding, or packaging in high-tech factories.

Key Skills:

• Robotic programming and calibration.
• Mechanical and electrical repair.
• Preventative maintenance schedules.
• Troubleshooting robotic control systems.

Average Salary: The average annual salary of a robotics maintenance technician in the US is $67,745.

Growth Path: Advancement to robotics engineer, systems integrator, or technical trainer.