Manufacturing has changed considerably due to advancements in technology, like 

automation and digital systems, and workplaces have become safer and more comfortable.

These changes have enabled employees to learn new skills and enrich their job opportunities.

Manufacturing careers offer: 

Why You Should Consider a Career in Manufacturing

Diverse Opportunities

Manufacturing encompasses a wide range of 

industries, from aerospace and automotive 

to electronics and consumer goods. This 

diversity offers you the chance to choose an 

area that aligns with your interests and skills.

Innovation and Technology

Modern manufacturing is driven by innovation 

and technology. People in this field have the 

opportunity to work with cutting-edge tools, 

automated systems, and advanced materials, 

and to contribute to the development of new 

products and processes.

Job Stability and Career 

Growth

Manufacturing is a crucial to economies 

worldwide. Manufacturers often offer a clear 

path for career advancement. Starting from 

entry-level positions, you can progress to 

supervisory, managerial, and even executive 

roles, with corresponding increases in 

responsibility and compensation.

Hands-on Experience 

If you enjoy working with your hands and 

seeing tangible results, manufacturing 

provides plenty of opportunity. From 

prototyping to production, you’ll be involved 

in creating real-world products.

Problem Solving 

Manufacturing professionals are frequently 

faced with challenges related to production 

efficiency, quality control, and process 

optimization. This environment nurtures 

problem-solving skills and critical thinking.

Competitive Compensation

Skilled manufacturing professionals are 

often in high demand, leading to competitive 

salaries and benefit packages, especially as 

expertise and experience grow.

Pride in Creation 

There’s a sense of accomplishment that 

comes from seeing a product you helped 

create out in the world. Manufacturing allows 

you to take pride in tangible accomplishments.

Continuous Learning 

Manufacturing is constantly evolving due to 

technological advancements and changing 

consumer preferences. This can lead to new 

career opportunities as you grow your skillset.

www.nist.gov/mep/mep-national-network

1-800-MEP-4MFG
www.nist.gov/mep/mep-national-network

1-800-MEP-4MFG

Manufacturing Jobs

Industrial Engineers

Optimizes production processes for efficiency 

and quality by analyzing workflows, streamlining 

operations, and implementing lean manufacturing 

principles and automation. They help to improve 

resource allocation, layout, schedules, and safety, 

using data analysis and project management.

AVERAGE PAY: $101,900

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in industrial 

engineering or a related field, such as 

manufacturing engineering or systems 

engineering.

Electrical Engineers 

Designs, develops, and oversees electrical systems 

in industrial settings, ensuring efficient operations. 

They design circuits, program controllers, 

and optimize processes for safe and effective 

manufacturing.

AVERAGE PAY: $114,050

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in electrical 

engineering or a related field. The curriculum 

covers topics such as circuit theory, 

electronics, digital systems, control systems, 

power systems, and instrumentation. 

Production, Planning, and 

Expediting Clerks 

Coordinates production processes, creates 

schedules, monitors inventory, and addresses any 

issues that pop up to ensure quality products are 

delivered on time.

AVERAGE PAY: $55,080

EDUCATION: High school, vocational training 

or certification, on-the-job training. 

Let’s take a look at some popular manufacturing jobs - how much they pay 

and what type of education or training you need to succeed on the job.

Welders and Cutters 

Joins and shapes metal components using various 

welding and cutting techniques, follows ComputerAided Design (CAD) files or drawings, maintains 

safety standards, and contributes to different product 

fabrication.

AVERAGE PAY: $52,600

EDUCATION: High school, vocational or 

technical training, apprenticeships, certification 

programs, on-the-job training.

Machine Tool Setters and 

Operators 

Operates, maintains and monitors machines that 

shape, cut, grind, or otherwise process materials 

such as metal, plastic, wood, or composite materials 

into specific parts or products.

AVERAGE PAY: $43,900

EDUCATION: High school, vocational or 

technical training, apprenticeships, certification 

programs, on-the-job training, associate 

degree.

Fabricators and Fitters 

Plays a pivotal role in production, precisely 

assembling components from CAD files or drawings 

using tools and machinery. They ensure quality 

standards and specifications are met. Fabricators 

work with various materials, shaping them according 

to designs. 

AVERAGE PAY: $50,600

EDUCATION: High school, vocational or 

technical training, certifications, on-the-job 

training.

Source: JobsEQ®, http://www.chmuraecon.com/jobseq