Although manufacturing was an industry filled with opportunity before 2020, the pandemic and its impact on the labor markets have made manufacturing careers even more attractive.
Many employers in Missouri are struggling to maintain adequate staffing levels. As a result, manufacturing professionals have an opportunity to command good pay and benefits. They also have more job options available compared to years previous. Add in the fact that modern manufacturing is a highly efficient industry using the latest digital technology, and it’s clear: There has never been a better time to be in this industry.
If you are currently considering manufacturing jobs, consider the following possibilities, many of which are available through temporary employment agencies in Pacific, MO.
High-Paying Manufacturing Jobs in Pacific, Missouri
Machine Operator
Modern manufacturing work typically involves the use of machinery and machine operators are responsible for ensuring that production equipment functions properly.
The typical day of a machine operator starts with the setup of their assigned machine, which usually involves calibration, cleaning and basic maintenance activities. Once their machine is up and running, machine operators adjust their assigned equipment based on production needs and ongoing conditions. The job may require feeding raw materials or parts into a machine and removing finished products. Machine operators are also responsible for regularly checking both inputs and outputs for any flaws. If quality issues are identified, they are documented and brought to the attention of management.
While a formal degree is not needed to be a machine operator, many employers require that their operators hold a high school diploma or equivalent. In order to do a good job, machine operators must be able to understand details behind the production process and how to follow safety regulations. They should also have solid teamworking, communication and problem-solving skills. The job typically requires standing and moving for extended periods of time.
According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be more than 174,000 job openings for production workers—which includes machine operators — each year in the United States. The average base salary for a machine operator as reported by Indeed is $16.83 an hour. many machine operators are able to earn more by working overtime. Pay rate can vary based on location and industry.
Assembler
As the job title indicates, assemblers put together finished products from component parts, possibly using hand tools or specialized assembly equipment. They must be able to read technical drawings, evaluate component parts before each assembly and evaluate finished products.
This position requires following best practices and safety regulations. Assemblers are often responsible for maintaining an inventory of parts and expected to keep their workstation organized. They may be expected to test finished products for flaws or defects.
While some employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, specialized knowledge or technical skill beyond basic math abilities isn’t required for success in the role. Assemblers are often trained on the job. As such, employers are more interested in so-called ‘soft’ skills such as work ethic, organization, communication and teamworking.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be more than 100,000 job openings for production workers, which includes assembly workers. According to Salary.com, assemblers should expect to make between $28,800 and $37,400 per year.
Quality Control Inspector
Quality control inspectors use analytic techniques to determine if raw materials, finished goods and/or production processes meet established standards.
In manufacturing, these professionals use methods established by regulations and company standards to monitor various aspects of the production process. They typically test incoming raw materials to ensure they meet production requirements, and test outgoing finished products to ensure they meet various standards. They also conduct in-process testing to ensure that production is proceeding as expected. Inspectors often work in a laboratory setting, using testing equipment and chemical reagents. They are expected to report any identified issues and file regular reports detailing testing results.
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent for this position, and some require a college degree. Certain industries may require specialized education or certifications. In addition to formal education, quality control inspectors should have basic computer and math skills. they should also be able to understand both industry regulations and company standards. Organization, teamwork, communication and problem solving are all essential skills for quality control inspectors.
According to the federal Bureau of labor Statistics, the average pay rate for a quality control inspector is $15.44. While technology advancements allow for the automation of some quality control tasks, the outlook for these positions is fairly robust, with nearly 55,000 openings available each year through the end of the decade.
General Labor Loader/Unloader
Loader/unloaders are critical to keeping the flow of goods moving in a supply chain.
As the job title indicates, a loader/unloader is responsible for the physical receiving and packing of shipments, often in a warehouse setting. This job tends to be very physical and those who work it should be in good physical condition.
The loading and unloading of shipments in a professional setting requires significant coordination among a team. Loader/unloaders should be able to follow both written and oral instructions. They should also understand processes related to shipping and storage of goods, as they are often expected to handle logistics tasks. These professionals are often expected to confirm that shipments match their corresponding documentation. The job often involves working with connected devices that send information about shipments to online logistics platforms.
Some companies want applicants for their loader unloader positions to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. But perhaps more important is the ability to effectively perform the physical duties of the job over the course of an entire shift.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, loader/unloaders should expect to make around $14.58 per hour. With the supply chain industry looking as vibrant as ever, job prospects for this position are expected to increase by 7 percent through the end of the decade, which is the average rate of job growth across all industries.
Benefits of a Career in Manufacturing
Often achieved with the assistance of a manufacturing employment agency in Pacific, MO, a career in manufacturing can be highly rewarding. Consider the following benefits of manufacturing jobs in Pacific.
Manufacturing Jobs in Missouri are on the Rise
Currently, job seekers have a lot of leverage in the manufacturing industry, especially those with technical skills.
While the pandemic decimated many industries, manufacturing held strong as an essential industry. People considering a career in manufacturing should see this as a sign of high job security the industry can provide.
Also, thanks to the pandemic, many companies are shortening their supply chains and reassuring manufacturing that had previously been overseas. Add in the ongoing retirement of the baby boomer generation and the accelerating effect that COVID-19 had on retirements, and the result is an industry desperate for hardworking talent.
Gain a Multitude of Skills in a Career in Manufacturing
Most manufacturing industries have a fairly low barrier for entry. Many jobs do not require a college degree and companies use on-the-job training to teach new workers essential technical skills. For those looking to get into manufacturing, this means avoiding the time and money spent on earning a college degree. Given the rising costs of college, this can easily translate into six-figure savings.
Skills learned through on-the-job training are nothing to sneeze at. Manufacturing is a highly technical industry and employees are increasingly expected to work with the latest in production technologies, including automation, artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing, the internet of things (IoT) and blockchain.
Additionally, manufacturing work involves a lot of interpersonal abilities. So-called soft skills like problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, leadership and teamworking aren’t just valuable in one specific job or industry. These skills transfer easily to more advanced positions and jobs in other industries.
Manufacturing Jobs Offer Significant Wage Benefits
Due to high demand, people working in manufacturing should expect to earn good pay and benefits. while entry level pay rates can be somewhat modest, experienced professionals in the manufacturing industry should expect to earn a good, middle-class rate of pay. Those with specific technical skills should expect to command a higher rate of pay than non-skilled workers.
Find Manufacturing Jobs with a Temporary Employment Agency in St. Louis Today
Westside Personnel Services has temporary employment agencies in St. Louis, Pacific, and Fenton, Missouri that connect manufacturing job seekers with top employment opportunities. As a leading job placement agency in Missouri, our manufacturing recruiters are committed to helping you find temporary or full-time positions where you will succeed.
Having been in the community since 1995, Westside Personnel has a knowledgeable staff and an expansive network of employers. Our goal is to continue to be the leading light industrial and manufacturing staffing agency in Pacific, MO and support the success of hard-working people in the area.
If you are currently looking to land a manufacturing job in Missouri, connect with Westside Personnel Services today. The professional recruiting specialists at our temporary employment agencies in St. Louis, Fenton, and Pacific are waiting to talk to you about a career in manufacturing.