Description

In an assembly plant or manufacturing facility those who handle the products to prepare them for subsequent assembly or production are called production technicians. Production technicians typically hold an entry-level position in an organization. However manufacturing companies require production workers to ensure control of quality, operate machinery effectively and safely and have basic mathematical and manual manufacturing skills.

A typical production technician is responsible for fabricating or assembling components in a production line or an assembly. This could require the use of heavy equipment hand tools or a combination of both. Production technicians must follow the correct procedures in all instances and make sure that the products they work on meet requirements for quality before transferring those products to the next stage of the manufacturing process. In a lot of manufacturing firms, the preparation process involves chemical solvent baths or cleaning. When production personnel are involved during these procedures, they need to adhere to the proper procedures for handling of equipment and materials during this phase.

Production technicians must be prepared to be in a seated position for shifts that last as long up to eight or longer within an assembly or manufacturing plant. In addition, technicians may require lifting small weights easily. The majority of jobs require an high school degree or equivalent. In many firms production facilities, they are open round all hours of the day, which means that technicians working in production may be employed during the evening hours or even during the night.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Production Technician with 6-9 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Operating and maintaining production equipment, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow. You will be responsible for operating various production equipment and ensuring their proper functioning. This includes troubleshooting any issues that may arise and performing regular maintenance tasks.
  • Conducting quality control checks to ensure product standards are met. You will be responsible for conducting regular quality control checks to ensure that products meet the required standards. This includes inspecting products for defects, conducting tests, and documenting results.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve production processes and efficiency. You will work closely with teams from different departments to identify areas for improvement in production processes. This may involve suggesting and implementing changes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and quality.
  • Training and mentoring junior technicians to ensure their skill development and adherence to safety guidelines.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Production Technician job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Technical expertise in operating and troubleshooting production equipment to ensure smooth and efficient manufacturing processes.
  • Strong attention to detail to perform quality checks and inspections on finished products, ensuring they meet the required specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of safety procedures and protocols to maintain a safe working environment and prevent accidents or injuries.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team, collaborating with colleagues and supervisors to meet production targets and deadlines.

Essential Skills For Production Technician

1

Troubleshooting

2

Safety Program

3

Food Safety

4

Quality Control

5

Production Management

6

Manufacturing Systems & Operations

Skills That Affect Production Technician Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Training

30%

Career Prospects

The role of a Production Technician is crucial in ensuring smooth operations and quality control. With 6-9 years of experience in the United Kingdom, professionals in this field may consider exploring these alternative roles:

  • Manufacturing Supervisor: A position that involves overseeing the production process, ensuring efficiency, and managing a team of workers.
  • Quality Assurance Manager: A role focused on maintaining high-quality standards, implementing quality control procedures, and conducting audits to ensure product compliance.
  • Process Engineer: A position that involves optimizing production processes, implementing new technologies, and continuously improving efficiency and productivity.
  • Supply Chain Coordinator: A role that entails managing the flow of materials, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring timely delivery to support production operations.

How to Learn

The role of a production technician in the United Kingdom is expected to witness significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, there is a projected increase in employment opportunities for this position. The job's demand is set to rise as various industries continue to expand and invest in manufacturing. With advancements in technology and automation, production technicians will play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and maintaining equipment. Considering all these factors, the job prospects for production technicians in the UK are promising.