In the famous 1932 photograph “Lunch atop a Skyscraper,” 11 steelworkers sit unharnessed, legs dangling in the air with New York City in the background. They are 850 feet in the air, and Central Park is visible in the background. While the photo is meant to be an advertisement for the new RCA building, they were working on, the picture is unsettling.
Likewise, photographs of coal miners emerging covered in black soot at the end of a long shift in the mine and assembly line workers quickly adding parts to cars as they move down the line abound. And, as Lucille Ball so humorously demonstrated working at a chocolate factory on the “I Love Lucy” episode “Job Switching,” the assembly line waits for no one.
Early manufacturing jobs, even ones as simple as wrapping chocolates, were not glamorous. Many were hard work that put employees at risk of injury or even death. Since they required little to no formal training or education, anyone could get a job in a factory, support the economy, and provide for their families, but it was risky.
Modern Manufacturing
While the manufacturing jobs available today are drastically and dramatically different from jobs of the past; manufacturers have struggled to shake off the ghosts of the past. Many judge them by the past and overlook the opportunities that manufacturing jobs offer to many individuals. Let’s examine the top reasons why job seekers should take a closer look at a career in manufacturing.
Manufacturing Opportunities
1. Improved Safety
Unlike the men sitting atop a steel beam and eating their lunch, manufacturing employers are keenly aware of the risks present in the workplace and take every precaution to protect employees. The steps necessary to protect life and limb will vary from one place of employment to the next. However, these precautions include providing proper training so employees know how to safely operate all machinery and supplying personal protective equipment to protect employees from potential chemicals or other hazardous materials used in manufacturing processes. Many manufacturing facilities employ robots to automate particularly challenging or dangerous tasks.
2. Early Technology Adoption
STEM education and STEM jobs are top of mind for those entering the workforce. While manufacturing may not make the top of the list of technology jobs, manufacturing jobs offer a front seat to the latest technology in many different industries. Interested in cars? Automobile manufacturers integrating cutting-edge technology into their vehicles give employees a firsthand look at the new technology. Those involved in manufacturing these cars help implement new designs and tech. The same holds true for jobs manufacturing pharmaceuticals and food.
Additionally, manufacturers are among the first to adopt new technologies to improve manufacturing processes. Improving productivity and efficiency boosts their bottom line. Employees can help trial technologies such as automation, wearables, and 3D printing.
3. Career Potential
The manufacturing industry offers many entry-level positions. While that may not sound exciting, consider the fact that many offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Rather than taking out loans to get an expensive degree, job applicants can earn money and leverage benefits while learning the skills necessary for the job. It is worth noting that entry-level positions in manufacturing, on average, pay three dollars more per hour than entry-level positions in other industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
In 2022, manufacturing jobs accounted for nearly 10% of US jobs, and nearly every industry depends on manufacturers to provide the products they use to conduct daily operations, So much so that in 2020, manufacturing jobs were among the essential businesses that did not close. Because every industry needs manufacturing, there are manufacturing jobs in every industry. Acquiring skills is the first step. From there, employees can find their ideal job in an industry that suits their interests.
4. More Than Manufacturing
Just like any business, manufacturers employ many individuals with a variety of skills to run their business. Each department makes distinct contributions to achieving company goals. Those specializing in business development, engineering, human resources, marketing, sales, and inventory management can be a valuable asset to a manufacturing business.
5. Compensation
In recent years, companies nationwide have been reshoring manufacturing jobs. This change in company structuring has created manufacturing jobs and demand for those who can fill them. Employers are willing to compensate skilled workers for their time and skills. In addition to higher entry-level pay, employees may be able to take advantage of overtime earning opportunities and enhanced benefits, including medical, dental, and retirement savings.
Manufacturing is a major contributor to the United States economy. They provide the basic necessities and building blocks that many other organizations use every day. The job stability, earning potential, and career advancement opportunities are greater now than they have been in the past. Utah’s Department of Workforce Services reported year-over-year gains in the number of manufacturing jobs in the state. Thus, the demand for Utah manufacturing hiring has increased as well. If you are interested in a manufacturing career, talk to a recruiting firm about the opportunities available and become a part of the growing and ever-important manufacturing industry.
Video
Infographic
Manufacturing jobs today are very different from the past. However, many people still judge them based on history and overlook the opportunities they offer. Explore the top reasons why job seekers should consider a career in manufacturing in this infographic.
