Factory Worker

Make a direct impact on production outcomes.

In this role, you’ll be involved in all the action on the factory floor – being physically active, driving forklifts, operating machinery, and ensuring products get to where they need to be in a timely and safe manner. This is a career for those who appreciate clear, tangible outcomes for their hard work and commitment.

Factory workers play a crucial role in the manufacturing process, operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality control on production lines. They contribute significantly to their employer’s productivity and efficiency, directly impacting the availability of goods in the market and the overall economy.

These versatile professionals work with a wide range of equipment, from hand tools to sophisticated automated machinery. They must possess a keen eye for detail, good hand-eye coordination, and the ability to follow complex instructions. Safety awareness is paramount, as they often work in environments with moving parts and potentially hazardous materials.

In a typical day, a factory worker might set up production equipment, monitor machine operations, assemble components, perform quality checks, and maintain a clean and organised work area. They often work in teams, collaborating with colleagues to meet production targets and maintain high standards of quality and safety.

Your role may include duties as follows:

  1. Operate and monitor production machinery and equipment
  2. Assemble components or products according to specifications
  3. Conduct quality control checks on finished items
  4. Maintain a clean and safe work environment
  5. Report any equipment malfunctions or production issues to supervisors

Becoming a factory worker typically doesn’t require formal qualifications to start, making it an accessible entry-level position in the manufacturing industry. However, on-the-job training is usually provided, and there are opportunities for further education and skill development. Here are some steps to become a factory worker:

  1. Complete Year 10 or equivalent education
  2. Consider completing a pre-apprenticeship or traineeship in manufacturing
  3. Research potential employers online and apply for advertised positions. If you’re interested in working for a specific company without current job openings, proactively submit your resume and a letter of interest.
  4. Apply for entry-level positions at manufacturing companies
  5. Undertake on-the-job training and safety inductions
Also Known As:
  • General Hand
  • Factory Hand
  • Factory Operative
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a factory worker include:

  • Forklift driving
  • Heavy lifting
  • Machinery operation
  • Manual handling
  • Problem solving
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a factory worker include:

  • Precision
  • Honest
  • Reliable
  • Accountable
  • Physical stamina
  • Realistic – “Do-er”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Engineering Skills
  • Furnishing Skills
  • Industrial Technology Skills
  • Science in Practice
Core School Subjects:
  • Essential Mathematics
  • Essential English

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Factory Worker can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$47,000
Median
$56,000
High
$67,000

While not always required, vocational education and training can significantly enhance your skills and career prospects in manufacturing. Here are some relevant qualifications:

  • Certificate II in Engineering – Production Technology (MEM20219)
  • Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422)
  • Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology (MSM20216)

University education is not typically required for entry-level factory worker positions. However, for those looking to advance into management roles or specialised technical positions within manufacturing, a university degree can be beneficial.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry