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Is working in the manufacturing industry for you?

Manufacturing uses machines and tools, processes and people to make things. It is very important to the British economy. Most employees work in teams. That means there are opportunities to train for a job as a supervisor, a team leader or a manager.

Here are some positive comments from real people currently working within the manufacturing industry:

Greg Holmes, Health and Safety Officer

"I started as a process worker and studied to do this job. I like to think my work helps to keep colleagues safe."

Sally Culpin, Quality Control Technician

"I work on a production line that makes toys. Working in a team can be great fun. My workmates are now my friends too!"

Manufacturing: the facts

People often have fixed ideas about different jobs. But it’s always important to get the facts. Here are some common misconceptions answered by the real facts:

• "There’s no future in British manufacturing" - times are harder for everyone right now, but many manufacturers continue to do well; strong companies will survive and thrive
• "It’s old-fashioned and low-tech" - UK manufacturers don’t just use the latest machines to produce goods, they make high-tech products too - aircraft, racing cars and medicines are all good examples
• "You’ll never earn much money in manufacturing" - if you are ready to work hard, you can progress from basic roles to well-paid positions
• "Factory jobs are boring" - manufacturing has a huge range of jobs, it’s up to you to find the one that really interests you, plus, on-the-job training such as apprenticeships, NVQs and BTECs mean you can grow your starter job into a great career

Advantages of working in the manufacturing industry

There are many advantages to working in the manufacturing industry including:

• training - many jobs in manufacturing give you the chance to learn and improve your skills 'on the job'
• job satisfaction - if you are the type of person who enjoys being creative and making things, seeing what you have made at the end of your working day can be very satisfying
• good career prospects - many manufacturers continue to do well, so there are many opportunities to progress if you’re willing to work hard
  

Real-life examples

Sue Turner, Chemical Process Operator

"I work in labs and in a factory. It’s my job to help design and make new plastics. I’ve just finished my Apprenticeship and next week I step up to a new job as a chemical engineering technician. After I’ve been doing it for a while my pay could rise to more than £28,000."

Nick Ryman, Blacksmith

"I’m a practical person. I love design and I don’t mind getting my hands dirty! Crafting ironwork gates and furniture is the ideal job for me. I enjoy seeing the results of my hard work. My pay is about £15,000."

Careers advice and job profiles

You can find more information about specific job roles within the manufacturing industry by using the careers advice and job profiles link below.

• Manufactoring and Engineering job profiles Opens new window

Find a job in this sector

Find out more about training and careers in the manufacturing industry by visiting the websites below.

• Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies (SEMTA) Opens new window

• Cogent Careers Opens new window

• The Recruitment and Employment Confederation Opens new window

To search for jobs available in this sector, use the 'Start a jobs and skills search' link below. Or talk to a Jobcentre Plus adviser by calling 0845 606 0234.

They can also tell you what help and support is available to you to help you into work.

• Start a jobs and skills search Opens new window

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window

• Help and advice when applying for a job