Manufacturing engineers work in a manufacturing or production environment. Your main role is to aid in the development and improvement of manufacturing processes for the machines and devices your company uses to produce its products.
Manufacturing engineering is a dynamic role that involves working on a variety of projects. You have a keen understanding of company products, how they are produced and the manufacturing methods that yield the best results. You have a diverse skill set and broad knowledge of manufacturing tools and equipment. Experience working in a manufacturing environment is an asset.
Manufacturing engineers work in an industrial environment, though they may also have an office workspace. You may work shift work or standard 9 to 5 hours. Overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or to repair downed equipment. In most cases, you will report to the production manager or plant manager.
The average manufacturing engineer salary in Canada starts just under $60,000. Though your salary may start out as low as $55,000 per year, with time, with experience, you can make upwards of $100,000 annually. Depending on the company you work for, you could also qualify for bonuses and profit sharing, two things that can increase your salary. Where you work will also have an impact on your wages.
As a manufacturing engineer, you create, evaluate and improve the way your company manufactures products. You assess current techniques and procedures with the goal of making the process as cost effective and efficient as possible. While your specific functions will vary from company to company, some common tasks include:
Manufacturing engineers can work for any company or in any industry that produces goods for businesses or the general public. Most often, you are employed with production companies in the manufacturing industries. You can also work for companies of all sizes, making your job prospects varied. Typically, you will have success in finding a position in areas with a strong manufacturing presence in Canada.
You’ll be expected to have a strong combination of manufacturing and engineering skills and knowledge to be successful in your role. Common skills companies are looking for in candidates include the following:
Other skills or abilities may be required by hiring companies based on their specific manufacturing requirements.
Manufacturing engineers are required to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in industrial, mechanical, or electrical engineering. A master’s degree or post graduate work is an asset and will help give you an edge over other candidates.
You may also require a license to practice as a professional engineer - in most Canadian provinces this will be a P.Eng designation. Having an engineering or related certification is also an asset and will improve your chances of getting a call for a job interview. Additional on the job training is common. Regular professional development and adding related skills and certifications will help you move up in your career.
Many manufacturing engineerings stay within their current role and make a unilateral move to another company that offers a different or unique challenge. Others who are looking to advance their career move on to roles as operations manager, or plant manager.
Are you looking for a position as a manufacturing engineer or other engineering careers? Does your company have a need for a manufacturing engineer? Randstad Canada can help! Contact us to learn more about how we help companies and employees find each other.