The current year has been no exception. The Workforce of the Future report highlights that manufacturing companies worldwide face challenges with building their workforce.

 

But despite these challenges, there are plenty of reasons for optimism. The insights from our report offer a number of strategies to help bridge the skills gap. In this blog, we’ll review the top ten most in-demand jobs for the manufacturing industry. Importantly, we’ll offer practical advice for addressing talent shortages.

 

The manufacturing sector is in the midst of a major transformation. The reputation of a traditional, outdated field is changing — replaced by a more forward-thinking and innovative industry. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are redefining many processes and roles, making room for more innovative operations.

 

That’s why we’re seeing more job opportunities for positions like Production Supervisor and Process Engineer. Many businesses are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to adapt their processes. Once dominated by manual processes, these roles now rely on more advanced skill sets. Meanwhile, roles involving manual tasks, such as Assembly Line and Machine Operators, are being reimagined. What does this mean for your manufacturing company? Primarily, a change in hiring tactics. While the physical nature of manufacturing roles usually requires on-site presence, technology is creating new possibilities for remote work. Embracing remote or hybrid manufacturing jobs lets you explore broader and more diverse talent pools.

 

Looking beyond the traditional production line enables greater flexibility when building your workforce. Let’s see how these changes reflect in the most in-demand manufacturing roles.

 

 

At the top of the list is the Production Supervisor. This role involves overseeing production operatives and machinists to run manufacturing processes efficiently and on time. As the demand for skilled workers in production management increases, so does the need for leadership and coordination.

 

 

Quality Engineers continue to play a major role in the manufacturing industry. They promote quality control and maintain high standards within manufacturing processes. These team members traditionally work closely with manufacturing engineers. Quality Engineers check that products meet safety and quality benchmarks, from aerospace parts to consumer goods.

 

 

Process Engineers are also vital to improving and optimising operations. As automation impacts the industry more and more, we’ll continue to see a need for process engineers. This role focuses on integrating new technologies to streamline other manufacturing job roles.

 

 

Mechanical Engineers are in constant demand across industries. This year is no different. At fourth on our list, Mechanical Engineers are there to design and develop mechanical systems and components. Whether in heavy manufacturing industries or any other field, these engineers transform blueprints and prototypes into production-ready designs.

 

 

If you run a production process, then hiring Manufacturing Engineers will be high on your list.

 

Seeking experienced Manufacturing Engineers is integral to all parts of production. They design, develop, and maintain the systems and equipment used in the manufacturing industry. With the growing demand for automation, manufacturing engineer jobs are needed to modernise factory production lines.

 

 

Electrical Maintenance Engineers keep your machinery and electrical systems operational. They’re highly skilled workers who focus on maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing key electrical systems. If you’re recruiting for a manufacturing team, your Maintenance Engineer will underpin all other roles.  

 

 

Next on our list is a non-engineering role — but it’s no less important. Logistics Managers handle the flow of materials and products within supply chains. These detail-oriented professionals maintain productivity throughout the manufacturing process. Importantly, they also make sure that the right materials are available at the right time.

 

As an admin-heavy job, Logistics Managers can expect to work more closely with automation platforms. Allowing AI to review multiple work streams can help to avoid deliveries slipping through the net. 

 

 

Materials Planners play a similarly crucial role in managing resources. They forecast material requirements and maintain inventory levels to keep the production process running. This is another example of manufacturing roles that require more data, problem-solving and technical skills than ever.

 

 

Managers implement systems that promote a safe and compliant manufacturing process. With stricter regulations around sustainability and safety, we’re seeing increased HSEQ job openings across the manufacturing industry.

 

 

Finally, Project Managers continue to be crucial to the manufacturing sector. Complex projects wouldn’t be a success without them. Working across teams and stakeholders, they keep timelines, budgets and quality standards on track.

 

AI and other technologies can help to streamline project planning and help managers to adapt to changing requirements.

 

Looking ahead, the manufacturing industry must focus on nurturing the global talent pipeline. With automation, robotics and AI redefining roles, we’re seeing new opportunities both for job seekers and hiring companies.

 

As well as highlighting the most in-demand manufacturing jobs, our Workforce of the Future report reveals several hiring trends within the industry. Some regions still see a steady influx of new manufacturing talent. The top global talent networks remain, as expected, in the USA, China, India, Germany and Japan. All of these markets have a strong supply of skilled manufacturing professionals and production operative jobs.

 

 

 

Some countries are facing significant talent shortages — New Zealand, Canada, Australia and Ireland chief among them. These locations have the fewest professionals available for manufacturing job roles. This imbalance creates significant talent pipeline challenges. It’s important for businesses in these areas to expand their view of traditional manufacturing jobs. It’s time to consider whether other cross-industry roles could benefit your business instead.

 

To fill manufacturing talent gaps, consider widening your search. New and growing talent networks are increasingly important for filling the skills gap, especially as remote working increases. Countries such as Colombia, Malaysia and Poland are seeing fast growth in entry-level talent pools, particularly in roles involving automation, data analysis and management. It’s these markets that will help drive manufacturing companies into the future.

 

Are you looking to fill your manufacturing skills gap? Contact us to see how we can support your staffing strategy.