Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments.
Welders use hand-welding or flame-cutting equipment to weld or join metal components.
Food Production Operators oversee the manufacturing process in the food and beverage industry.
CNC Machine Tool Operators use computer-controlled machines or robots to perform functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
Industrial Engineers design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes.
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians cut, grind, and polish eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other precision optical elements.
Wind Turbine Technicians install, maintain, and repair wind turbines.
Industrial Production Managers oversee the daily operations of manufacturing and related plants.
Jared Robeson is an apprentice at Local 16 — the Sheet Metal Workers Union. On various construction projects, Robeson is welding, installing air conditioning units, and putting equipment together.
If you enjoy using hand and power tools, operating machinery and equipment, performing activities that produce tangible results, working with your hands, or planning, organizing, and managing work, a career in Manufacturing might be perfect for you. This pathway is ideal for those who are practical, observant, coordinated, physically active, and step-by-step thinkers.
Career Planning
Here are three careers in high demand right now in Oregon.
Education: Less than High School to High School Diploma
Annual Average Wage: $37,106
Duties: Help production workers by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include supplying or holding materials or tools and cleaning the work area.
Why it's in demand: With the ongoing need for production support, there is a steady demand for helpers who can assist skilled workers and maintain the efficiency of production lines.
Education: Associate’s Degree to Bachelor’s Degree
Annual Average Wage: $50,000
Duties: Use computer-controlled machines or robots to perform functions on metal or plastic workpieces.
Why it's in demand: With the advancement of manufacturing technology, skilled CNC machine tool operators are in high demand to produce precision components.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree
Annual Average Wage: $85,000
Duties: Design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes.
Why it's in demand: As industries seek to optimize production processes, the demand for industrial engineers who can improve efficiency and productivity continues to rise.
Career OneStop Take this 30-question interest assessment to help you match your interests with exciting careers.
/* Your custom link styles with !important */Career Journeys Watch young Oregonians in high-demand trades share their career journeys and give you a window into their workday.
/* Your custom link styles with !important */Oregon Career Pathways: Explore career pathways through the Oregon Employment Department to understand the education and training needed for different occupations. Learn which jobs are in highest demand and what they pay.
/* Your custom link styles with !important */Community & Workforce Training: The Business and Management Career Learning Area focuses on the business and entrepreneurial needs of Oregon’s students as they prepare to enter and succeed in the world of business. The careers in this area span virtually every industry in the world.
/* Your custom link styles with !important */The Oregon Career Information System (CIS): provides a system of occupational and educational information to help Oregonians learn about the world of work and education. We work with schools, colleges, social agencies, and businesses who provide career guidance and employee development services. They use CIS products with their students, clients, customers, and employees to assist them with the process of career planning or career transition.
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Career Connected Learning is a partnership between the Oregon Department of Education and the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Committee. Site design, implementation and content development by Southern Oregon Education Service District, in partnership with Inflexion and the Journalistic Learning Initiative.
