7 Tips for Finding Your Ideal Manufacturing Job

Manufacturing jobs continue to be popular with job seekers, thanks to advantages like job security, opportunities for advancement, local job opportunities, and the chance to work with your hands. Finding your ideal manufacturing job often requires some trial and error. That can include trying out new positions, industries, and employers. 

If you’re looking for your perfect manufacturing job, Liberty Staffing Services can help. Every day, we match applicants with great employers, and we can do that for you, too. Reach out to us to find out more. 

In the meantime, here are 7 things you can do to find a manufacturing position you’ll love.

1. Identify Your Strengths and Interests

Before you kickstart your job search, spend some time thinking about your strengths and interests. Taking some time for self-reflection will help you figure out what kind of positions you want to pursue. 

The idea of an “ideal manufacturing job” will differ from one person to the next, so you have to figure out what’s best for you. Knowing what you don’t want to do is just as important as knowing what you do want to do. 

Consider your strengths by answering questions like these: What jobs have you enjoyed in the past? What kind of work could you enjoy doing every day for the next year? What kind of work environments do you thrive in? 

2. Research Different Manufacturing Industries

The manufacturing industry is huge. The sector encompasses a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and many more. Each industry has its own processes, technologies, work environments, tasks, etc. 

There are a few different approaches to the manufacturing industry job search. For example, you could search for specific positions or job duties, regardless of the industry. Or you could target a specific sector and look for open positions. 

If you want to be a machine operator, you may not care if you’re working in automotive manufacturing or beverage manufacturing. But if you dream about a career in automotive manufacturing, you might be willing to start in any position in an auto facility. 

3. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Even if you were on the job market not long ago, it’s time to revisit your resume and cover letter.

A well-crafted resume and cover letter are essential tools for securing a new position. This is your chance to showcase your skills, relevant experiences, and professional accomplishments. Of course, you’ll want to tailor these documents to the specific job you’re seeking.

Check out our recent articles about improving your resume and cover letter.

4. Start Networking

You’ve heard the old cliché, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” That phrase has some truth to it, especially when you’re job searching. You need to know your stuff, but you can also benefit from making connections with people in your industry. 

Joining professional organizations, attending industry events, and communicating with your network on social media platforms like LinkedIn are all great ways to build your professional network. 

5. Use Online Job Boards

Online job boards and company websites are some of the most valuable resources you have in your job search. We recommend that you regularly check reputable job boards, visit career pages, and do your best to stay informed about new openings. 

If you already have a profile on the major job search platforms, it will make it easier to quickly apply to open positions.

6. Consider Temporary Work

Your main goal may be a permanent position, but a temporary placement may be the ideal next step for getting there.

There are a lot of benefits to temporary and contract work in the manufacturing sector. For example, you may be able to get hired at a company that otherwise isn’t hiring any permanent employees. Now you can get your foot in the door and make yourself stand out as a great permanent hire. 

Temporary assignments also give you the chance to develop new skills, build your resume, and turn yourself into a more appealing candidate to high-quality employers. You can also think of this as an opportunity to give an employer a trial run. Do you like their company culture? Do you enjoy the work they provide? Can you imagine yourself working with them for a long time? Get the answers to these questions while you are a temporary employee so that you know whether or not you want to apply for a permanent position. 

7. Prepare for the Interview

If you want to be successful in an interview, preparation is key. Research the company and find out what you can about the person who will be interviewing you. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with common interview questions so that you can practice your answers. You may not hear all of the questions you practice, but there’s a good chance that your rehearsing will pay off. 

Don’t forget the importance of nonverbal communication, such as having a confident posture, offering a firm handshake, and maintaining appropriate eye contact.

Ready for Your Next Manufacturing Job? Talk to Liberty Staffing

Liberty Staffing is the leading staffing firm in Southern Ontario. We are proud to work with the region’s best manufacturing companies, pairing them with high-quality candidates just like you. 

We can help you find your ideal manufacturing job—and find it quickly.

Whether you’re looking for temporary work, a permanent position, a full time position, or a part-time schedule, we can help you find your perfect workplace match. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.