West Virginia Manufacturing Jobs Quick Facts

Did you know that everything from the base polymers in cosmetics and window seals, to finished goods such as spark plugs, tableware, charcoal, and kitchen cabinets are made right in West Virginia? It's true!

What you should know about manufacturing in West Virginia

The manufacturing industry supports the global and national economy as well as individuals and families. If working on real, tangible products where you can say, "I helped make that!" is interesting to you, consider looking for your next role in West Virginia.

• Good pay: West Virginia manufacturing jobs pay well, with an average wage of $70,553/year (2017)

• Paid training: Most manufacturing jobs offer on-the-job training - get paid while you learn and build out your skills

• A community of workers: Manufacturing work is quite popular in West Virginia; there were approximately 47,000 manufacturing workers in the state in 2018

• Employees keep their jobs: West Virginia ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs

Manufacturing is a key, multi-billion-dollar industry in West Virginia!

Tips for your manufacturing job search in West Virginia

Here are some of the most popular manufacturing job titles, the best ways to search for them as well as more information about each role.

Manufacturing Process Technician

Would you like to work in a role that allows you to gain new skills? Interested in helping run and maintain the latest production technology and equipment for some of the world’s most well-known brands? As a manufacturing plant technician, you will have the chance to influence the production and quality of products. Most plant manufacturing jobs offer mentorship, coaching, training, and guidance. Once you’ve established manufacturing skills, this is a job where you can grow your career.

Common job requirements for Process Technicians

• Use of hand and power tools
• Ability to lift specified weight (example 50 pounds)
• Ability to bend and stoop; and remain standing for shift duration
• Handling, loading and unloading of materials
• 18 years of age or older
• Have a minimum of a high school diploma, GED or equivalent education

Because Process Technician jobs vary by company, you will find different job titles for this type of role. Try the following keywords when looking for Process Technician jobs in your job search.

• Assembly / Assembler
• General Laborer
• Paint / Coating Worker
• Processing Worker
• Plant / Machine / Process Operator

Manufacturing Apprentice

Looking to make your way into the world of manufacturing? Some manufacturers offer PAID apprentice opportunities. During an apprenticeship program, Apprentices can be offered wages, paid tuition, and benefits.

Upon completion of a program, Apprentices have achieved certification in a skilled trade. Through some programs, Apprentices earn an Associate’s Degree in one of several technical disciplines. This can put you on the path to a high demand, high-skill, and high-paying job.

Common requirements for Manufacturing Apprentices

• Recent graduation from high school, or GED (transcripts are typically required)
• Some programs may require math or science classes
• Ability to lift specified weight (example 50 pounds)

Finishing an apprenticeship can lead to a long-standing career in manufacturing as a CNC (computer numerical control) programmer, skilled machinist, tool and dye maker, industrial maintenance and repair, and engineering. Use the keyword apprentice in your job search.

Manufacturing Assembler

Do you enjoy working closely with others and have a keen eye for detail? Then this may be the perfect job for you! Your role as a manufacturing assembler is to ensure that all parts and products under your care are in proper working order and meet the quality standards of the company and industry. As a manufacturing assembler you will spend your time working with a variety of tools and machinery to make or repair products and parts for distribution.

Common requirements for Manufacturing Assembler

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination
• Ability to lift specified weight (example 50 pounds)
• Must have good eyesight, including depth perception, peripheral vision, and ability to differentiate between colors

Assemblers are a vital part of the manufacturing process and can be found in almost any field. Their job titles may vary according to the industry. but some commonly used titles for Assemblers are Mechanical Assemblers, Industrial Assemblers, and Electronics Assemblers. Do you think that you might be interested in a manufacturing assembly role? Use the keyword assembler in your job search.

Consider joining the world class workforce of #WestVirginia! Visit the West Virginia Resource Center for single click job searches, local hiring news, and information on work life in the Mountain State.

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This article is sponsored by WorkForce West Virginia. All opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.