The Impact of Automation on the Job Market for Manufacturing and Production Roles

Technology can be beneficial for businesses to increase efficiency, but the rise of automation capabilities has the potential to change the realities of the workplace and job market. Manufacturing and production are among the industries where automation is becoming more commonplace, leaving workers in these areas wondering if and how they should prepare for their professional futures. Read on to learn more the impact of automation on the job market manufacturing and production roles.

Less Demand for Certain Tasks

There are particular aspects of manufacturing and production that are most likely to eventually become automated. Wide-scale automation is complicated and costly, so the most monotonous, predictable tasks are the ones that would be impacted first and foremost as companies start using the technology. Job duties that are more repetitive would be the most likely to be affected by automation and would be significantly less in demand by employers. 

Growth in Related Jobs

While many jobs may be at risk of eventual automation, the shift is also likely to create additional jobs. Automation, especially for manufacturing and production roles, cannot function on its own – it will require professionals who can understand, implement, and troubleshoot the technology. The job market for manufacturing and production will likely have growth in demand for roles that are related to engineering, maintenance, or other technology-focused positions that would oversee and capitalize on automation and machine learning. This may require additional training to gain the skills to be marketable for the future. 

Focus on Relevant Soft Skills 

Hiring managers typically consider soft skills, or the personal strengths that make for a valuable employee, as a way to differentiate between candidates with similar technical expertise. With the impending growth of automation, hiring managers in manufacturing and production will be searching for employees that have the soft skills that will make them more successful to work in the changing landscape, such as adaptability to change, problem-solving, and comfort with technology. 

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