What is Manufacturing?
Manufacturing is simply known as the process of converting raw materials into new products. Pretty much everything we consume has been through a manufacturing process. This includes food and drink, clothing and shoes, vehicles, furniture, wood, and paper products. This list goes on!
Where there is supply and demand, there is the need for a strong labour force. Which is why the manufacturing industry is a great place to look for work.
Looking for work in manufacturing?
The Manufacturing industry is one of the largest labour markets in Australia, employing almost 900,000 Australians, this industry sector is continuing to evolve on a global scale.
In Australia, employment demand is driven by new developments in technology, and increased production levels due to population growth and infrastructure needs. The largest employing sectors in manufacturing include bakery products, meat products, furniture, and beverages.
Over the last few decades, the industry has undergone a significant digital transformation, as many medium and large sized businesses have chosen to implement computer-aided manufacturing technology to reduce labour costs, increase productivity, and limit the likelihood of human error or injury. This technological shift has caused many traditional roles to be replaced by computer-operated machinery. However, employment opportunities remain strong, especially for workers who can operate computer aided machinery.
These 5 occupations are in currently in demand:
1. Machine Operators
The demand for machine operators is expected to remain steady, with ongoing opportunities in both urban and regional areas. Depending on specific qualifications and skills, machine operators can specialise in all sorts of manufacturing processes. They can work with various kinds of machinery, including, CNC machines, packaging machines, robotics, or textile machines.
Starting a career as a machine operator offers job stability, opportunities for career growth, and the chance to work with advanced technology. Machine operators are employed across various production sectors, and with the right experience, they can advance into supervisory roles or management.
Want to learn more about AI in the workplace? Read this: Harnessing Digital Literacy: The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence.
2. Welders and Fabricators
Due to an increase in civil development and infrastructure, there is a growing demand for Welders and Fabricators to join Australia’s manufacturing sector. Welders use tools that generate heat and electricity, designed to fuse parts together to build structures, machinery, and equipment. In manufacturing, welders play an important role when it comes to machine maintenance and building computer-aided manufacturing machines. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, over 76,000 Australians are employed as part of the Structural Steel and Welding Trades industry.
3. Forklift Operators
The demand for forklift drivers in Australia is driven by continuous growth in the logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing sectors. Forklift drivers are responsible for using a forklift to transport, stack, and organize heavy materials or products. According to the Jobs and Skills Australia, the number of forklift driver jobs is expected to climb due to the rise of e-commerce. As of 2024, there is an estimated 72,100 forklift operators employed across Australia. A forklift licence is required if your role involves operating a forklift.
In Australia, there are two types of forklift drivers:
LF Drivers: These drivers operate a wide range of forklifts, including counterbalance forklifts, reach forklifts, and high reach forklifts.
LO Drivers: These drivers specialise in operating order-picking forklifts. LO drivers work at elevated heights and are responsible for selecting and retrieving items from storage, often in large warehouses or distribution centres.
Need to get a licence? Find the right information here: Get Forklift Certified: 5 Reasons to Become a Forklift Operator in Australia
4. Quality Assurance Officers
Quality Assurance (QA) officers play an important role in the manufacturing industry. QA Officers are responsible for testing and inspecting products, improving quality processes, and managing the quality system. With an increased reliance on AI systems and computer-operated machinery, the role of a QA officer is important to ensure all products meet the desired standards set by the manufacturer.
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, there are more than 19,000 Quality Assurance Managers employed across Australia, with manufacturing outlined as the primary employment sector. QA officers who work in a food production facility are required to obtain further training. HACCP and GMP training are required to ensure that food safety processes are understood, and quality control standards are followed in accordance with industry standards.
5. Maintenance Engineers
Maintenance Engineers, sometimes known as maintenance technicians or maintenance fitters, are hired to maintain and support the day-to-day functionality of machinery used in manufacturing and production facilities.
They are responsible for preventing equipment failures, conducting regular machine inspections, measuring equipment performance, and repairing breaks that can disrupt the production process. As manufacturing facilities begin to incorporate AI systems and computer operated machinery, the job function of a qualified maintenance engineer is essential within the industry.
The main job requirements of a Maintenance Engineer can vary however they are often regarded as being great problem solvers who can combine technical skills with hands-on work to keep the production line running smoothly.
Need to upskill? Here’s how: 5 Reasons to Upskill in Manufacturing: Get Future Ready
Secure a Job in Manufacturing with Staff Australia’s Help
For over 25 years, Staff Australia has specialised in recruiting the best workers to support the manufacturing and warehousing sectors. Staff Australia has provided job seekers with the opportunity to work in the industry and have supported employers by finding the best talent to support their production process.
Whether you’re a licenced forklift operator, skilled machine operator, or an experienced order picker, our recruitment team can support you during every stage of the job search.
We’re here to help you find the right job.
Partner with our recruitment team so we can connect you with opportunities that match your skills, qualifications, and career goals. We would love to hear from you! The first step is to register your details.
For further information, find your local office, or give us a call at 1300 178 233.
