No college degree or formal training? Not a problem - there are plenty of manufacturing jobs that only require a high school diploma or GED and offer on-the-job training.
If you’re looking for your next job, start your search with these 10 in-demand manufacturing jobs that don’t require a degree.
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10 In-Demand Manufacturing Jobs That Don't Require a Degree
These 10 manufacturing jobs are always in-demand, and do not require a college or technical degree. In some cases, you may be able to qualify even without a GED if you have previous demonstrated experience.
1. Assembler
An assembler is someone who assembles parts, typically on a manufacturing line. Your day to day workload might require reading instructions, putting the product together, and reviewing for mistakes. For assembler positions, on-the-job training is usually provided after hiring.
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2. Fabricator
A fabricator is responsible for cutting and assembling metal components and parts. Your daily tasks might include reading blueprints, fabricating parts (cutting, bending, welding, etc.), meeting quality control standards, and troubleshooting products. On-the-job training and safety procedures are usually provided for entry-level roles, but some additional training and experience can open the door to more specialized positions.
3. Heavy Equipment Operator
A heavy equipment operator is someone who operates heavy equipment and machinery to build, transport, or manipulate materials during manufacturing or construction projects. You might use common forklifts, cranes, excavators, tractors, lifts, etc. depending on what is needed. Other times, you might operate specialized manufacturing equipment in the facility. This sometimes requires additional certification, depending on the equipment.
4. Machine Operator
As a machine operator, you would be expected to load, operate and maintain standard and specialized machines in the manufacturing facility. A wide variety of machines could be utilized depending on the industry, materials, and end-product. For this position, on-the-job training is usually provided.
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5. Mechanical Maintenance Technician
In the manufacturing industry, a mechanical maintenance technician services and maintains machines and equipment. Daily tasks include diagnosis ofmachine malfunctions, troubleshooting broken down machines, replacing parts, and other related maintenance tasks. This position sometimes requires additional certification, but you don’t need a degree to get started so long as you have strong problem-solving skills, follow safety procedures, and are capable of reading technical diagrams
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6. Manual Machinist
Going beyond basic machine-operation, a manual machinist sets up and operates machines to produce a specific part or component. . This role often includes analyzing blueprints, programming machines, operating equipment, and measuring parts per specification. . Sometimes, this role requires additional training through trade school or apprenticeship but not always.
7. Quality Control Inspector
A quality control inspector, also called a quality controller, ensures that products are free of defects. They read blueprints and look over products and parts to ensure they match up correctly and everything matches the initial guidelines. The quality controller role sometimes requires additional certification once hired, but it’s not necessary to apply.
8. Solderer
A solderer uses specialized equipment to solder components together. Not to be confused with a welder, a solderer works with much lower temperatures and only metals the filler material to solder parts and pieces together. This sometimes requires additional training through trade school or apprenticeship, but it’s not always necessary depending on the hiring company.
9. Equipment Mechanic
Similar to a mechanical maintenance tech, an equipment mechanic repairs and troubleshoots equipment errors, but it’s more so directed at hands-on disassembly and repair of equipment rather than the deep troubleshooting and prevention errors. This position sometimes requires additional certification but not always.
10. Tool Crib Attendant
A tool crib attendant inventories tools, keeps them in the proper areas, ensures they are in working condition, and distributes them to operators. During a typical work day, they might hand out and receive tools, track inventory, inspect tools for wear or issues, and transport tools to various locations in a manufacturing facility as needed. For this position, on-the-job training is usually provided.
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Access In-Demand, No Degree Required Jobs Today
These 10 in-demand manufacturing jobs that don’t require a degree are just a sample of the jobs available in the manufacturing and industrial industries. If you need more help in your search for a manufacturing position, our recruiting team at Strom Engineering can help you find your next position. Contact us or send in your resume so you can be added to our database, and we’ll help you find a position that’s right for you.
Strom Engineering is a national staffing and recruitment agency, with a particular focus on manufacturing, engineering, assembly, and other trade positions. We match skilled candidates to temporary or project staffing positions. Learn more about how it works and check out our case studies for more information.