Various companies that deal with manufacturing processes are in great need of factory workers in Canada. However, factory jobs are unskilled labor that requires little or no experience, some employers may demand vocational training or a college degree. The job roles of a factory worker in Canada may vary depending on the purpose of the factory.
These roles may include taking part in at least one aspect of the manufacturing or production process. As a factory worker in Canada, you’ll make use of machinery or perform manual tasks as part of the job. Also, you may have to monitor output, pack or sort finished products, or analyze products for defects. Your job position could be specific or trained to do multiple jobs.
In this article, we’ll discuss different types of factory jobs, how to become a factory worker in Canada and tips on how to secure a factory work.
Types of Factory Jobs
To enlighten you on the various factory jobs available, we’ve compiled some common types of factory jobs you will come across when searching. Read on.
1. Robotics Technician
Robotics technicians are one of the types of factory jobs available to unskilled workers in Canada. Their job function is to create, install, test-run, and manage robotics equipment in the factory. However, these robotics equipment are meant to enhance the automated systems for product production. Robotics technicians may earn an average salary of $32 per hour.
2. Packaging Engineer
Packaging engineers are those in charge of packaging products before they get to the clients who will receive them. As a packaging engineer, you need to be smart and a fast thinker to constantly introduce various packaging ideas that are functional and cost-effective while adhering to consumer preferences. Though packaging engineers mostly rely on their creativity, they may go to extra lengths to research competing products for inspiration on the job.
Also, they’ll have to evaluate different packaging production to ensure efficiency. In addition, as a packaging engineer, you may earn an average salary of $23.65 per hour.
3. Machinist
A machinist is another type of factory job in Canada, involved with establishing and maintaining all mechanical and computer machines that the company uses for production. However, to obtain this job, you must possess related training or a certificate in machinery from a technical college or vocational school. Machinists have vast experience in mechanical designs and computer programming to monitor and control the step-by-step stages of production.
Also, they ensure perfect maintenance of the factory’s equipment, troubleshooting issues, and carrying out some minor repairs. As a professional, machinists specialize in specific machines such as milling machines, while others may work with different equipment. The average salary of a machinist in Canada is $25.50 per hour.
4. Quality Control Manager
A quality control manager checks for defects in raw materials and products needed for production in the factory. However, raw materials that have defects and fail to meet requirements are discarded. This is made possible by some computer programs and equipment being used to analyze products before distribution.
Employers usually hire and train employees to qualify for the quality control team and all staff must endeavor to follow quality control measures. Once the inspection is done, quality control managers may approve appropriate products and discard the ones that don’t meet standards, before taking them to the store. In addition, the quality control manager enforces environmental regulations and reviews customer feedback to further create new policies. The average salary of a quality control manager in Canada is $35 per hour.
5. Product Manager
A product manager controls all the daily activities that take place within the factory. They are in charge of training recruits, assessing, and proffering solutions to production problems. Also, they work with the management to make sure high levels of efficiency are achieved.
Sometimes, project managers visit manufacturing plants to ensure productivity aligns with their deadlines. Other responsibilities include managing the project’s budget and communicating with the company’s investors. The average salary of a product manager in Canada is $65 per hour.
6. Boiler Operator
A boiler operator is the one in charge of the hot steam production units of a manufacturing facility. Furthermore, they ensure that the facility’s equipment receives an adequate supply of power to operate. They also conduct regular safety tests and monitor the pressure and temperature of each unit.
Daily routine maintenance checks allow these professionals to navigate and replace all old and bad valves or filters. A boiler operator with experience in welding may handle and repair minor pipe repairs. In addition, a boiler operator may earn an average salary of $28.50 per hour.
7. Operations Manager
Operation manager is another type of factory job available in Canada. They work tirelessly to improve the productivity of the manufacturing plant in a factory. However, these professionals sometimes act partially as human resources by hiring new staff and creating training programs.
Oftentimes, operations managers lighten up the spirit of staff members with appraisals and gifts to the best-performing member of the team. Also, the managers focus on maintaining budgets, gaining profits, and collaborating with the board of directors. Operation managers in Canada earn an average salary of $57 per hour.
8. Safety Manager
The safety manager as the name implies, ensures safety, reduces risks, and safeguards the health of factory workers. They usually carry out risk assessments by observing employee procedures and inspecting equipment to prevent unforeseen accidents and injuries to the factory workers. Safety managers also educate factory workers on safety regulations, train managers on safety protocols, and move to the facility’s safe spot in case of accidents.
The general safety of all factory workers and staff by preventing the occurrence of accidents in the factory, is the major concern of the safety manager. However, a safety manager in Canada may earn an average salary of $61 per hour.
9. Factory Manager
A factory manager supervises a facility’s entire operation. They may recruit and train new employees to ensure they achieve the factory’s production goals. Their job function includes inspecting final products to be sure they meet the quality assurance team’s expectations.
By analyzing production data, factory managers can identify more efficient ways to schedule employees and assemble goods. The factory manager earns an average of $17.40 per hour.
How to Become a Factory Worker in Canada
To become a factory worker, you may need to have some educational background. However, these qualifications may differ depending on the type of factory worker job you want to perform. Oftentimes, entry-level positions require only a high school diploma or GED certificate.
The employer will provide on-the-job training for workers without any previous experience. Furthermore, if the manufacturing process practiced at the factory requires technical knowledge of machinery or computer programs, a factory may seek workers with certificates or diplomas in a specific technical specialty. Some factories may offer opportunities for advancement if you want to learn these technical skills after gaining experience in an entry-level position.
Tips on Securing Factory Jobs
Below are some tips to keep in mind during your job search for factory jobs
- Determine the type of job you want: Factory jobs are of various types, therefore you might want to determine the one that suits your interests. You can also consider your education and experience before applying to different roles.
- Find out the level of education required for the position: Some factory positions require little or no education or experience, such as an assembler. Some other employees may demand someone with higher education or experience for higher-level jobs such as a machinist. Knowing the education requirements can help you plan your schooling accordingly.
- Link up with current colleagues with factory jobs: Consider reaching out to current colleagues who have factory jobs that interest you. They can be on the lookout for you in open positions and may even recommend you to their supervisors.
Advantages of a Factory Job
Here are some reasons why you might want to pursue a factory job
- On-the-job training: Many manufacturing companies have entry-level roles where employees can receive on-the-job training to enhance their jobs. These jobs often require little or no work experience, meaning they have fewer barriers to entry than those in other industries.
- Salary: The national average salary of a factory employee is $37,300 annually, with there being several opportunities for growth and overtime work.
- Growth opportunities: The manufacturing industry offers various advancement opportunities. For instance, you may start in an entry-level factory position and eventually move into a leadership or management role over time.