A manufacturing operator oversees maintaining and operating production equipment in a manufacturing or industrial occupation. They are in control of all production equipment before, during, and after the manufacturing process. If you are interested in becoming a manufacturing operator, it’s important to understand what skills and qualifications are needed before you start applying to jobs. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a manufacturing operator.
What Are a Manufacturing Operator’s Job Duties?
A manufacturing operator must be able to communicate effectively, work efficiently, maintain production, and work well on a team. Most facilities are fast-paced and require strength and stamina as well as attention to detail. A manufacturing operator may need to read blueprints, use calipers and micrometers, operate hand tools, perform testing procedures, operate heavy machinery and equipment, uphold safety requirements, take and delegate orders, and keep their calm in a high-pressure environment. A manufacturing operator may be responsible for these job duties:
- Operating machinery, including milling and planing machines, injection mold machines, drilling and boring machines, rolling machines, packing machines, moving machines, and construction machines.
- Observing and inspecting machinery.
- Testing and quality control.
- Examining, testing, and documenting the design parameters and production quality and speed of machines.
- Repairing machinery.
- Managing team members.
- Ensuring proper start-up and maintenance of machines.
What Education and Training Should a Manufacturing Operator Have?
You don’t necessarily need a college degree to become a manufacturing operator. However, most employers do require a high school diploma or GED. Some might require specific training or certifications, including:
- Forklift certification.
- Manufacturing skill standards council certification.
- Manufacturing Skills Institute manufacturing technician level 1.
- MSI manufacturing specialist.
- Lean certification.
What are the Must-Have Skills for a Manufacturing Operator?
If you’re interested in becoming a manufacturing operator or applying for manufacturing operator jobs in the U.S., these are the basic skills you should be able to list on your resume or job application:
- Basic math.
- Computer skills and computer literacy.
- Forklift certification.
- Lean manufacturing experience.
- GMP and CGMP.
- Communication skills.
- Mechanical knowledge.
- ISO 9001 training.
If you’re looking for a machine operator job in the US, contact us at Tygart Contracting. Call us today or contact us online to get started.