Building What Matters: Where the Manufacturing Jobs Are

Manufacturing continues to be a cornerstone of the regional economy, producing everything from industrial equipment and machinery to consumer goods and advanced technologies. As manufacturers invest in automation, innovation, and production capacity, they continue to seek skilled workers who can help keep operations running efficiently and safely.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 12.8 million people were employed in manufacturing in 2024. While overall manufacturing employment is projected to remain relatively stable through 2034, nearly 1 million openings in production occupations are expected each year, on average, primarily due to workers retiring or transferring to other occupations. These replacement needs continue to create opportunities for individuals interested in building careers in manufacturing.

Whether you’re interested in engineering, skilled trades, production, quality control, or logistics, the manufacturing industry provides stable careers with competitive wages and opportunities for growth.

Where the Jobs Are: Manufacturing

Manufacturing depends on a skilled workforce to design products, operate equipment, maintain machinery, manage production, and ensure quality throughout the manufacturing process. According to Workforce Solutions’ Where the Jobs Are report, key occupations include:

Industrial Machinery Mechanics — Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair manufacturing equipment to keep production lines operating efficiently.

• Median Hourly Wage: $29.90 | Projected Openings: 1,500+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Industrial Engineers — Improve manufacturing processes by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production systems.

• Median Hourly Wage: $52.19 | Projected Openings: 600+ annually | Education: Bachelor’s degree

First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers — Coordinate production activities, supervise employees, and ensure manufacturing goals are met safely and efficiently.

• Median Hourly Wage: $33.29 | Projected Openings: 1,900+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers — Examine products and materials to ensure they meet quality and safety standards before reaching customers.

• Median Hourly Wage: $21.68 | Projected Openings: 1,900+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers — Fabricate and repair metal components used in manufacturing, industrial equipment, and fabricated products.

• Median Hourly Wage: $24.94 | Projected Openings: 1,900+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks — Coordinate production schedules, monitor inventory, and help ensure materials and products move efficiently through the manufacturing process.

• Median Hourly Wage: $23.45 | Projected Openings: 1,000+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators — Operate forklifts and other powered equipment to move raw materials and finished products throughout manufacturing facilities and warehouses.

• Median Hourly Wage: $21.04 | Projected Openings: 2,600+ annually | Education: No formal educational credential

Machinists — Set up and operate precision machine tools to produce metal parts and components used in manufacturing.

• Median Hourly Wage: $24.11 | Projected Openings: 700+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Helpers—Production Workers — Assist production teams by supplying materials, cleaning work areas, and supporting manufacturing operations.

• Median Hourly Wage: $16.46 | Projected Openings: 1,100+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders — Operate machinery that packages, fills, labels, and prepares products for distribution.

• Median Hourly Wage: $17.50 | Projected Openings: 600+ annually | Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Start Your Career in Manufacturing

Manufacturing offers career pathways for individuals with a wide range of skills and educational backgrounds. Many positions can be accessed through technical education, apprenticeships, industry certifications, or on-the-job training, while engineering and management roles typically require a bachelor’s degree.

Local community colleges, technical schools, and manufacturing employers provide training programs designed to prepare workers for high-demand careers in production, maintenance, engineering, logistics, and quality assurance.

Explore in-demand careers and connect with top employers at upcoming Workforce Solutions hiring events. Register today to secure your spot and access career-building resources.