Production workers fill a wide variety of roles in several settings, including manufacturing and assembly. Requirements to become a production worker may include minimum education requirements, specialized training, and specific skills. Based on the position and type of work, the education and training necessary to become a production worker can vary.
A wide range of industries employ production workers. This includes the automotive and pharmaceutical industries. Retailers with warehousing needs and companies that provide specific components for larger products, such as engines and electronics, also hire production workers to help meet production requirements.
Production work typically involves a focus on labor and repetitive processes. This can include working on an assembly line and repeating a single process. Many support positions also provide an assembly line and production environment with the tools and equipment needed to complete work.
The minimum requirements to become a production worker typically include a high school diploma or its equivalent. Candidates should also be able to lift heavy objects, sometimes exceeding 50 pounds (22.68 kg), and remain on their feet for the majority of their shift. Depending on the position and the company, drug testing and background checks may also be required before a new-hire can start work.
Those interested in entering a production environment need to take into consideration any specialized training that will be necessary for each position. For instance, workers in a manufacturing environment may need to understand the mechanics of complex machinery. Production workers that help transport raw and finished products to and from the assembly line may need additional training and certification to operate machinery, such as a forklift.
Demonstrating manual dexterity, following instructions, and demonstrating consistency is a requirement for most production positions. Basic training can help those looking to become a production worker, and is typically provided by the company upon being hired. Training can include basic instructions related to how to pack or assemble a product as it moves down the assembly line. In addition, workers will most likely be trained on each segment of the assembly line to further expand their capabilities.
Job candidates looking for career opportunities should consider their future objectives when applying to production jobs. Production jobs related to machinery and the gas or chemical industry can provide an opportunity to work in entry-level positions while seeking continuing education opportunities. Advanced training and certification in specific production processes can provide candidates with an opportunity to advance to other production positions.
