Emerging careers in manufacturing offer opportunities beyond the production line. The increasing use of emerging technologies provides ongoing opportunities for manufacturing professionals to reskill and advance their careers.
The growing use of technology and automation provides additional opportunities for manufacturing professionals to diversify their careers. As a result, these professionals have virtually endless opportunities to expand their knowledge, skills, and experience for elevated career satisfaction.
Discover five emerging careers in manufacturing that offer opportunities beyond the production line.
1. Industrial Engineer
An industrial engineer uses cyber-physical systems such as digital twins and other automation methods to increase connectivity between manufacturing processes and optimize production operations. They also connect operational and information technology employees to optimize human-machine interactions.
An industrial engineer must have the following knowledge and skills:
- Technical acumen
- Data science
- Programming languages such as Python and R
- Design for manufacturability
- Implementation of co-bots, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, digital twins, wearables, and other technologies
- Knowledge of current technology and manufacturing trends
- Ability to collaborate with agile and DevOps IT teams to test new technology optimizations in production
- Desire for experimentation and innovation
2. Operator
An operator works on manufacturing machines or product lines. They use digital tools such as digital twins and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered recommendation engine support to proactively identify and resolve issues.
An operator must have the following knowledge and skills:
- Knowledge of predictive and prescriptive maintenance practices
- Ability to use 3D models for model-based manufacturing
- Ability to interpret and act on insights from digital twins
- Ability to collaborate with robots on production lines
- Continuous improvement mindset
3. Line Leader
A line leader uses automated processes and tools to proactively identify and resolve issues. They require specific knowledge and skills to perform their work:
- Use of real-time data production data to uncover the root causes of problems and prevent recurring issues
- Predictive and prescriptive maintenance
- Updated knowledge of IoT, digital twins, robotics, automated machinery, and other technologies
- Team management
- Coaching
- Continuous improvement
4. Quality Engineer
A quality engineer monitors manufacturing processes in real-time. They use digital twins, machine learning models, embedded intelligence quality controls, and advanced analytics to diagnose and resolve issues.
A quality engineer must have the following knowledge and skills:
- Big data
- Data science
- Machine learning
- Analytical thinking
- Ability to use 3D models for model-based manufacturing
- Ability to create, manipulate, and interpret data insights from virtual models of production processes
- Ability to collaborate with an agile team during design iterations
5. Production Planner
A production planner regularly analyzes data insights, manages exceptions, and identifies opportunities for continuous improvement in production. They also use predictive analytics and digital twins to optimize production schedules and proactively manage supply issues.
A production planner must have the following knowledge and skills:
- Business acumen
- Proficiency with lean manufacturing and Six Sigma
- Data analysis and visualization
- Data-driven decision-making
- Proficiency in using digital twins for scheduling
- Understanding of how robotics, IoT sensors, and other technologies support production lines
Are You Ready to Build a Career in Manufacturing?
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