…working in the manufacturing and production industry and you’ll establish yourself on a creative and challenging career path that offers long-term growth opportunities as well as job security.
The UK is the world’s sixth largest manufacturer and the industry is vital to the British economy, employing 2.25 million people in England. Manufacturing and production engineers are responsible for designing, developing, providing and maintaining the machinery, tooling, processes, and equipment needed to manufacture a product. If you want to work in manufacturing and construction, then you’re in luck because this diverse industry is full of career opportunities.
You could be working in engineering design and development, production engineering, quality control, marketing, sales, customer service or human resources. What’s more, employers are constantly on the lookout for talented and creative individuals to join them.
What do employers look for?
Get qualified: The great thing about the manufacturing and construction industry is that recruiters welcome graduates from a wide range of disciplines. Of course, to work as a manufacturing or production engineer, you will need a degree in engineering – but in many other sectors, any degree is accepted. However, preferred degrees include electronics, computing, computer systems, physics, physical sciences, life sciences, mathematics, food science, clothing and textiles and business studies degrees – there really is something for everyone.
Get some experience: To get your foot in the door, a bit of work experience will really help boost your job prospects in the industry. If you fancy working as a manufacturing engineer, then getting a relevant sandwich or vocational placement with a company is a brilliant stepping stone. For those of you who want to work in production, time working in a factory can provide you with a great insight into the industry. There is also a range of graduate trainee schemes and apprenticeships available, but make sure you apply for these as early as possible because there is fierce competition.
Get skilled: Impress your potential employers with skills required to work in the industry. Of course, these will vary depending on what sector you want to work in, but it’s certainly an advantage to be great at planning and organising, problem-solving, decision-making, working as part of a team, cooperating, analysing and having good communication skills.
Get job hunting: To really get ahead in the industry, be proactive. Scour Career Service vacancy lists, national newspapers, and specialist recruitment agencies for employment opportunities. The Engineer (www.theengineer.co.uk) is also brimming with information and career opportunities for budding manufacturing and production engineers.
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