As the manufacturing industry recovers from the pandemic, it faces inflation and supply chain disruptions. Companies are dealing with significant labour and skills shortages, and as a result, the best manufacturing jobs for 2023 include a mix of entry, mid and high-level positions. Entry-level manufacturing salaries for 2023 have risen accordingly.
Employers need candidates with practical skills — the top manufacturing certifications in 2023 and many of the top in-demand skills for manufacturing professionals deal with areas such as welding, cutting and measuring. Technology is also a critical factor in the top industries for manufacturing professionals in 2023.
Learn more by browsing our sections:
ten most high-demand manufacturing jobs in Canada for 2023
In 2023, our list of top manufacturing jobs includes a variety of new positions. As companies look to streamline and improve operations, production supervisors are the most in-demand professionals in the industry. Applicants with hands-on and supervision experience that can lead a team may find plenty of opportunities.
Given the labour shortages around the country, employers are also looking for entry-level and mid-level workers to fill material handling and field service technician jobs. Skilled positions, such as machine operators, millwrights and welders, are also in high demand across Canada.
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1. production supervisor
The production supervisor is responsible for one or more manufacturing units. They work to increase operational efficiency, maintain safety and ensure that products meet compliance and quality standards. Production supervisors interact closely with team members, so they must have well-developed communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.
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2. materials handler
Materials handlers spend their time transporting various materials to different parts of a manufacturing operation. Tasks might include loading, unloading, sorting and packing. Depending on the facility, this entry-level position may require you to lift by hand, work with machine operators or operate industrial equipment such as forklifts or conveyors.
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3. machine operators
There is still a very high demand for these workers. As the name suggests, these skilled workers operate various machinery within the manufacturing plant. With the rise in technology and automation in the manufacturing industry, many employers seek machine operators with some technical experience.
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4. field service technicians
Field service technicians travel to job sites in their area, helping clients diagnose problems and maintain or repair equipment. Some positions, such as electrical and millwright field technicians, require specific skills and experience. This job often requires you to accept a certain number of on-call hours for handling client emergencies.
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5. millwrights
Millwrights’ primary responsibilities are installing, inspecting, repairing, and maintaining factory equipment. Since this equipment is key to the production process in most manufacturing plants, it comes as no surprise that these skilled workers are in such high demand.
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6. welders
Welders are experts at welding metal materials together, which is essential in the manufacturing of some goods as well as in repairing heavy machinery. The demand for these workers is so high because there’s a limited supply of skilled welders in the job market today.
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7. electricians
Electricians are responsible for inspecting, installing and maintaining electrical components, such as circuit breakers and transformers. Electricians must be certified to work in all Canadian provinces and territories.
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8. electro mechanics
In an age when technology is advancing rapidly, it only makes sense that the demand for electromechanics, also called mechatronics technicians, would rise. These professionals work side-by-side with computer-operated tools and equipment. They are responsible for installing, upgrading, testing, adjusting and maintaining the electrical components of this type of equipment to ensure it operates at peak performance.
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9. heavy duty mechanics
Similar to millwrights, heavy-duty mechanics help to maintain factory equipment. However, these skilled workers focus primarily on repairing larger industrial equipment and providing preventative maintenance services.
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10. manufacturing managers
Manufacturing managers, also called production leads and production managers, oversee workers and the production process within their specific departments. They are expected to focus on meeting production goals, maintaining workplace health and safety compliance, managing workers and meeting deadlines.
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what is the average salary for manufacturing professionals today?
Salaries within the manufacturing industry vary greatly based on position, experience and credentials. However, the average entry-level manufacturing worker earns an annual salary of $59,800, while mid-level workers earn an average annual salary of $93,000. The highest-paid manufacturing professionals earn an average annual salary of $115,000.
Curious to see what’s the average salary per region and level of experience? Download our salary guide.
what skills are most needed in the manufacturing industry right now?
The most sought-after skill in the manufacturing industry for 2023 is PLC troubleshooting and programming. Manufacturing companies also need employers skilled in working with micrometres, blueprints, cutting equipment and engineering drawings. Candidates with one or more of these highly sought-after skills have a significant advantage over less-skilled candidates.
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