Process Worker

Back to All Careers

IT ALL STARTS IN MANUFACTURING.

As a process worker you will enjoy physical and active work and look forward to playing a vital role in the manufacturing flow of new, and useful products.

Process workers are committed to optimising a process in a manufacturing sequence. You will add value by creating new and useful products for businesses or consumers. Typically, as a process worker, you will be responsible for inspecting and assembling products.

As a process worker, you’ll have the opportunity to work with specialised, cutting-edge technology, where you’ll create, assemble, and inspect products made from a variety of materials.

Factory process workers play crucial roles in various manufacturing industries, each with unique responsibilities and environments. Cement and concrete workers mix materials outdoors, while chemical plant staff work indoors with strict controls. Clay, textile, and footwear workers shape products in specific conditions. Glass workers handle hot materials, and hide processors deal with strong odours. Recycling staff sort materials in various settings. Despite their differences, these workers share needs for attention to detail, physical stamina, and safety awareness. Their work contributes to making everyday items from building materials to clothes and household goods.

If you’re accountable and enjoy developing routine – this occupation might be for you.

As a process worker, your role may include:

  1. Being responsible for inspecting and assembling products
  2. Ensuring order fulfilment, packing and wrapping items for shipment
  3. Playing an important role in record keeping and reporting, and safety maintenance
  4. Being the first line of defence for product quality control, inspecting products for quality and consistency, identifying defects or issues and reporting them to supervisors.
  5. Working closely with team members to make everything run smoothly.

Becoming a process worker offers an exciting entry point into the diverse world of manufacturing. While formal qualifications can be beneficial, many employers value hands-on experience and offer comprehensive on-the-job training. To get started:

  • Complete high school, focusing on subjects like industrial technology, mechanical engineering.
  • Look for entry-level positions in manufacturing or industrial settings. Experience with machinery operation, maintenance, or quality control can be valuable, although is often not mandatory.
  • If you have an interest, or some basic experience in a role like this, you can apply directly to an employer. Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
  • Most manufacturers will provide on-the-job training for new process workers.
Also Known As:
  • Process Line Worker
  • Factory Process Worker
  • Manufacturing Process Worker
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

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

  • Communication skills
  • Manual handling
  • People Skills
  • Problem solving
  • Record keeping
Values & Attributes:

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

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

Salary Expectations

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

Low
$45,000
Median
$55,000
High
$65,000

Process workers may choose to pursue training or may be required to hold certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

While not mandatory, useful qualifications for this role may include:

  • Certificate II in Manufacturing Technology (MSM20216)
  • Certificate II in Process Manufacturing (MSM20116)

Qualifications that may support progression in this role include:

  • Certificate III in Process Manufacturing (MSM30116)

Holding a degree in human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Career progression

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

Team Leader
Team Leader

As a Team Leader in manufacturing, you’ll play a crucial role in bridging the gap between management and frontline workers.

– Up to $100,000 salary

View Profile
Process Operator
Process Operator

As a specialist in complex machinery, you’ll control and optimise complex equipment, ensuring each production step meets exact specifications. Your hands-on expertise will be crucial in creating a wide spectrum of products – from refreshing beverages to life-saving pharmaceuticals and innovative industrial materials.

Up to $85,000 salary

 

View Profile
Production Operator
Production Operator

Production operators are invaluable to the manufacturing industry, ensuring things get done, and done correctly.

– Up to $70,000 salary

View Profile
Warehouse Operator
Warehouse Operator

Warehouse operators are the key players in the complex network of goods and information.

Contribute to global value and supply chains.

– Up to $65,000 salary

View Profile
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
Related Careers
Up to $67,000 Salary
Factory Worker
Go to Career Profile
Up to $85,000 Salary
Machine Operator
Go to Career Profile