The 10 Most In-Demand Manufacturing Positions of 2023

In 2023, the manufacturing industry faced unprecedented staffing challenges due to talent shortages and hiring difficulties. This situation has put significant stress on producers, who are struggling to find and retain skilled professionals in key positions.

Amid this talent crunch, certain positions have emerged as particularly sought after, short-staffed, and critical to the sector’s operations and success. These roles are pivotal in keeping the wheels of manufacturing turning; unfortunately, too many producers are simply “making do” without them.

Here are the 10 most in-demand manufacturing positions of 2023:

1. Industrial engineer: Industrial engineers are crucial in optimizing manufacturing processes, identifying inefficiencies, reducing production costs, and improving overall productivity. They design efficient systems that optimize production methods and maximize resource utilization.
2. Quality assurance specialist: These specialists ensure products meet specifications and function as intended. They conduct tests, inspections, and develop quality control protocols that are instrumental to manufacturing excellence.
3. Assembler: Assemblers play a key role in manufacturing, turning individual parts into products like cars and electronics. They’re skilled with both traditional tools and high-tech machinery, allowing them to complement virtually any assembly line.
4. Production manager: Also known as production supervisors, production managers are responsible for coordinating manufacturing and logistics operations. They play a vital role in personnel management and process optimization.
5. Welder: Welders bond materials like metals and plastics, and they’re proficient in reading blueprints and adhering to safety standards. They’re a staple in numerous production environments, including metalworking and automotive manufacturing.
6. Machinist: These professionals are responsible for crafting intricate parts using tools like lathes, milling machines, grinders, and saws. They must be comfortable reading technical drawings and blueprints — a skill that is growing increasingly scarce in the workforce.
7. Data analyst and data scientist: In an increasingly digitized factory environment, these professionals help companies make sense of vast amounts of data. They’re crucial for improving processes, predicting maintenance needs, and enhancing quality control.
8. Computer numerical control (CNC) machinist: CNC machinists operate precision machinery to create parts and components with high accuracy, essential for advanced manufacturing. Their unique skillset is increasingly incorporated into high-tech fabrication environments.
9. Robotics engineer: They design, develop, and maintain robotic systems that streamline production and improve safety. Robotics engineers are increasingly important as manufacturing adopts more automation.
10. Maintenance technician: They diagnose and repair machinery, essential for uninterrupted production. Their problem-solving skills are vital for troubleshooting equipment issues across a wide range of diverse systems.

As we reflect on the shortage of critical talent in 2023, it’s easy to wonder how manufacturing will fare in 2024. The increasing demand for roles such as industrial engineer, robotics engineer, and data scientist indicates a shift toward a more technologically advanced manufacturing sector. This evolution might heighten the hiring competition for these skilled professionals; it could also mean the emergence of new roles with specialized skills.

As we move into 2024, manufacturers should stay agile and forward-thinking to navigate a challenging employment landscape successfully. While the job roles on this list are subject to change, the trend underpinning them remains the same: Manufacturing needs more qualified workers to sustain a healthy future.