Factory Position Description
What Is a Factory Worker?
A factory worker is a laborer who works in a manufacturing facility where goods are made or assembled. As a factory worker, you may operate machinery, handle materials, assemble products, or inspect items for defects. The work takes place on a production line or in a specific department and follows a set of procedures and safety standards to complete daily production tasks.
What Does a Factory Worker Do?
You follow instructions to complete tasks on a production line or in a set work area. You may run machines, assemble parts, package finished products, or inspect materials for quality. You keep your station clean, follow safety rules, and report any issues to supervisors while meeting daily production targets and deadlines.
Factory Worker Responsibilities
- Operate machinery to produce goods
- Assemble parts on a production line
- Inspect items for defects or damage
- Package finished products for shipment
- Maintain a clean work area
- Follow all workplace safety rules
Factory Worker
Duties
- Load raw materials into machines
- Label products with correct information
- Monitor equipment for irregular performance
- Remove finished goods from production line
- Report malfunctions to maintenance staff
- Record daily output and totals
Factory Worker Skills, Certification, and Training
Factory Worker Skills
To succeed as a factory worker, you need to stay focused, work with your hands, and keep up with a steady pace. The job requires physical ability, teamwork, and attention to basic instructions. You’ll also need to follow rules and react quickly when problems come up. These basic abilities help you handle daily production tasks. Here are six key skills for factory work:
- Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Physical strength and endurance
- Ability to follow written instructions
- Attention to detail during repetitive tasks
- Communication and teamwork with coworkers
- Awareness of safety rules and hazards
Factory Job Training
Factory worker training teaches you how to do your job safely and correctly. Most training happens on-site and shows you how to run machines, follow procedures, and keep up with production. You may also learn how to spot problems and report them. The goal is to prepare you for daily tasks and workplace expectations. Here are common areas covered in factory training:
- Machine operation and equipment handling
- Safety rules and emergency procedures
- Assembly line techniques and timing
- Quality control and inspection steps
- Reporting problems to supervisors
- Workplace cleanliness and organization standards
Factory Worker Certification
Certification for factory work depends on the type of job and the equipment you use. Many roles don’t need formal certification, but some tasks require proof of safety training or equipment knowledge. Earning certification can help you qualify for more roles, especially where machines, chemicals, or strict safety rules are involved. Here are examples of common factory certifications:
- OSHA general industry safety certification
- Forklift operation license or permit
- Lockout/tagout procedure training
- First aid and CPR certification
- Hazardous materials handling (HAZMAT)
- Machine-specific training or equipment certification
Factory Worker Salary and Benefits
Factory Salary
The average hourly wage for a factory worker in the United States is approximately $16.86, translating to an annual salary of about $35,075. Entry-level positions typically start around $29,250 per year, while experienced workers can earn up to $42,698 annually. These figures can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific employer.
Benefits of a Factory Worker Position:
- Steady hours with reliable weekly pay
- On-the-job training with no degree required
- Opportunities for overtime and extra shifts
- Clear tasks with daily routines
- Skill-building for long-term job growth
- Team environment with structured supervision
Factory Position Interview Questions
You’ll be asked about your work habits, ability to handle physical tasks, and how well you follow instructions. Employers want to know you can stay focused, work with a team, and handle problems quickly. They may also ask about safety awareness and past experience in similar settings. Here are key questions you may need to answer:
- Can you describe your previous factory experience?
- How do you handle repetitive physical tasks?
- Are you comfortable standing for long shifts?
- What do you do if a machine stops working?
- How do you make sure your work is accurate?
- Can you follow written and verbal instructions?
Factory Positions We Place
by Industry and Function
Assembly and Production
Assembly line worker: Works on a production line putting together products or parts in a set order. Keeps pace with the line and performs the same task repeatedly.
Production operator: Operates basic machines used in making products. Follows instructions and checks for errors during the process.
Fabrication worker: Shapes or cuts raw materials into parts used in final products. May work with metal, plastic, or wood.
Machine Operation
CNC machine operator: Runs computer-controlled machines to cut or shape materials. Monitors quality and makes adjustments during production.
Press operator: Operates pressing machines that mold or stamp materials into parts. Sets up the machine and inspects final pieces.
Lathe operator: Uses a lathe to shape parts by spinning them against cutting tools. Works with detailed measurements and sharp tools.
Quality Control
Quality inspector: Checks products for defects or damage before they leave the factory. Uses tools to measure and document issues.
Line inspector: Observes production lines for mistakes or delays. Makes sure workers follow procedures and products meet standards.
Product tester: Runs tests on finished items to confirm they work correctly. Reports problems to supervisors or repair teams.
Material Handling
Material handler: Moves raw materials or finished goods throughout the factory. Uses carts, lifts, or forklifts depending on the load.
Warehouse associate: Stores, retrieves, and organizes factory supplies. Works closely with shipping and receiving teams.
Stock clerk: Keeps track of inventory used in production. Reorders supplies and updates stock records.
Maintenance and Repair
Maintenance technician: Fixes factory equipment when it breaks down. Performs regular checks to prevent future problems.
Machine mechanic: Repairs and maintains specific machines on the production floor. Works with tools and replacement parts.
Facilities technician: Handles building systems like lighting, plumbing, and HVAC. Keeps the workspace safe and in working order.
Packaging and Shipping
Packer: Boxes finished products and prepares them for shipment. Adds labels and protects items from damage during transit.
Shipping clerk: Organizes outgoing orders and schedules pickups. Makes sure each shipment includes the correct items.
Loader: Moves packed goods onto trucks or storage racks. Follows safety rules and uses equipment like dollies or lifts.
Looking for Factory Jobs?
If you are looking for an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment, explore our current factory job openings in Michigan and Ohio. We offer competitive pay, depending on experience. Begin your career as a factory worker today!
Looking to Recruit Factory Workers?
Finding skilled factory staff in Michigan and Ohio is essential to maintaining smooth operations on your job site. Partner with us to connect with qualified job candidates who can ensure you meet your daily workflow, contribute to your bottom line, and adhere to all compliance and safety regulations.
