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What is the job description of a hotel housekeeper?

If you are on the hunt for a hotel housekeeping position, you are likely to see job postings similar to the one below:

Hotel Housekeeper

Chain hotel in search of a dedicated and caring individual to maintain our rooms, care for our guests and help bring the entire hotel experience together. A hotel housekeeper will primarily be responsible for turning down guest rooms during and after their stay and cleaning minor messes around the hotel.

Hotel Housekeeper Job Duties

• Ability to work mornings, nights, weekends and holidays
• Ability to multi-task and stay organized to efficiently and quickly turn down rooms
• Must have great attention to detail
• Will be working with a variety of cleaning chemicals
• Will be working on feet most of the day
• Must follow all hotel safety and guest-care policies
• Great customer service skills a must

What kind of salary do hotel housekeepers receive?

If you are interested in the hotel housekeeping field, your first question is probably, “How much will I be paid?” The current average pay for housekeepers is around $11.00 per hour or $23,000 annually. Housekeeping is different from many other industries. Most industry-pay is dependent on location, not housekeeping. Most jobs in the housekeeping industry have a pay-scale that is dependent on the level of the establishment you work in. For example, a two-star hotel is likely to pay closer to the national average or slightly under whereas a 5-star hotel will pay above the national average.

It’s also important to note housekeepers occasionally receive tips. This practice isn’t quite as consistent as, say, waitressing or cab-drivers, but it does happen. These tips, too, often reflect the ornateness of the hotel you work for. Expensive or lavish hotels are much more likely to have higher tips.

What is the salary for a housekeeping manager?

This management level of the industry is, on average, closer to $12.00 an hour or $25,000 each year. The high-side of this position can even see pay around $15.00 per hour ($31,000 annually). Again, your pay in this advanced position will depend greatly on the hotel you work in and how large of a team you manage.

How are hotel housekeepers paid?

Like any place of work, the pay-schedule will normally be dictated by the employer. Many large hospitality companies will pay weekly or bi-weekly and give employees options on if they would like to receive a paper check or direct deposit. Smaller hotels may pay on a slightly different schedule or cut a paper check for their employees. This is a good question to ask in an interview if you are concerned about your payment schedule.

What are some common tips and tricks for hotel housekeepers?

Whether you are already a housekeeper or looking to join the industry, it always helps to know the tricks of the trade. Here are a few that can help make the day-to-day easier:

• Shine A Light – Turn on all the lights so you can see every nook and cranny that needs cleaning.
• Don’t Forget About Safety – Be aware of slip or trip hazards as well as any chemical or bodily fluid exposure.
• Fresh Air – If you are able to, open the windows to let fresh air in and flush out the stale air.
• Clear Clutter First – Remove the bulky trash and linens first so you have less distraction to work around.
• Vacuum Before Mopping – Vacuum before you mop so all hair, lint and dust is off the floor before getting it wet.
• Let It Soak – Use less elbow grease by giving your cleaning agents time to do their work.

What kind of interview process do hotel housekeepers have to go through?

Hotel housekeepers go through a similar interview process to get their job as most other positions. Interviews will include several questions. Just like in most interviews, you will probably be asked about your experience, shift availability or desired pay. Some questions specific to housekeeping to look out and prepare for are:

• Why have you chosen housekeeping as your career of choice?
• What do you think are the main job functions of housekeeping?
• What do you find most rewarding about housekeeping?
• What is the most negative aspect of housekeeping?
• What skills do you possess that would make you a great housekeeper?
• How do you multitask all the tasks a housekeeper has to do in a day?
• How do you handle angry clients and calm them down?

Can you become a hotel housekeeper with no experience?

Beyond a high school diploma, there is no other required education or certification needed in order to become a hotel housekeeper. This is great if you are fresh out of high school or college and looking for work. There are still many skills you are expected to possess to become a housekeeper. These may include cleaning skills, attention to detail, ability to work a varied schedule, and familiarity with the way a hotel works.

If you are having a hard time snagging a job as a hotel housekeeper due to a lack of experience, you can potentially find work in another industry that uses skill sets similar to hospitality. By working a similar job, you will gain experience to add to your resume that will make it more likely for you to get a job in hospitality. These similar  industries include hospitals, private homes, cruise ships and office spaces.

For more advanced positions, such as head housekeeper, concierge, front desk supervisor or head of guest services, you will likely need to pursue specialized training. Many in these positions choose to go back to school for hospitality degrees while others go the route of general business degrees and certifications.

Are there different types of hotel housekeepers?

There are a number of different types of hotel housekeepers. While the names will only vary slightly, the duties can range from just cleaning guest rooms, attending to hotel laundry or cleaning common areas and conference rooms. Some advanced positions include head housekeeper, concierge or head of guest-relations, such as head housekeeper. Depending on the fanciness of the hotel, you may be tasked with further responsibilities depending on the amenities they offer within the room (laundering bathrobes, minibar stocking, etc.)

There are also many other establishments that need housekeepers and their special skill set. These include hospitals, conference centers, cruise ships, private homes and office spaces. Each of these different places requires their own special needs as far as housekeeping goes. That said, working in different fields can help you advance your career or even gain experience to move into a hotel housekeeping position.

What kind of skills do you need to become a hotel housekeeper?

A hotel housekeeper has a whole suitcase of skills that they must use each day. Of course, the most obvious one is attention to detail. A housekeeper must be able to notice the most minute details. If a pillow is not fluffed, dust is left on the dresser or the first piece of toilet paper isn’t carefully folded, the feel of the whole room becomes stale. This long list of details isn’t normally something a housekeeper keeps handy but, rather, they just have an innate sense for.

A skill set that matches well with attention to detail is a knack for organization. The large carts housekeepers use to navigate their tools of the trade will often have over 25 items on it. If a housekeeper isn’t careful to organize and keep track of these items, their job can become ten times more difficult.

Customer service and interpersonal skills are a must. Many guests will stop you in the hall or leave requests with the front desk for special items, preferences or questions. Being able to handle these requests with kindness and empathy is important to the whole guest experience.

Also, housekeepers must be fantastic at time management. Rooms need to be cleaned as quickly as possible and all rooms and additional requests should be managed so the most essential tasks are completed first. Most of the time, rooms must be turned over in a few short hours so new guests can check into the hotel. This means housekeepers must stay focused and balance the workload to accomplish all these tasks in such a short amount of time.

Finally, physical fitness and stamina are extremely important traits for hotel housekeepers to possess. While you don’t have to be a gym rat, this job requires frequent bending, lifting, pushing, pulling and squatting, so make sure you’re physically able to meet these requirements. Essentially, this job requires that you are on your feet and moving all day.

How many rooms does a hotel housekeeper clean per day on average?

You may be surprised to hear that a hotel housekeeper completes an average of 10-15 full turndowns a day along with another 15 or so “refresher” cleanings (new towels, making the bed, replenish coffee supplies). This may not sound like much, but there is so much that goes into one full turndown. Each room takes an average of 45 minutes or more, depending on the size of the suite. As well, these assignments must be finished within a very structured schedule. Most housekeepers complete their shifts in the mornings and afternoons rather than throughout the day given how hotels check guests in and out. So while 10-15 rooms a day may not sound daunting, doing this job and meeting its requirements are much to be proud of if this is your career of choice.

What is the salary of a maintenance technician?

If you are interested in becoming a maintenance technician, you can expect to see average pay rates around $19.50 an hour, or $40,000 annually.

The high-side of this job’s pay range is about $59,000 a year (or $28.00 per hour). The low-side can dip towards $26,000 annually ($12.50 per hour).

This pay scale is so wide because maintenance technicians can have such a wide range of skills, expertise and experiences. For example, if you only have a few months of prior experience and are applying for a maintenance tech position, you may receive pay on the low-side of the spectrum.

As another example, you might make less if you apply at an apartment complex as a licensed electrician but you do not have a licensed plumber. A company like this would need you to know both plumbing and electricity. So, if you are missing one of these specialties, you may be offered a lower pay rate that someone who has experience with both plumbing and electricity.

As with any job, having past experience and lots of knowledge of the job will always help your chances of getting the job and getting the best pay rate. 

What is the job description of a maintenance technician?

If you are on the hunt for a maintenance technician job, you may come across a job posting similar to the one below. While this is not the standard for job posts in this career, it can provide you with some expectations on what you may see and that a company may expect

Facilities Manager

We are in search of a maintenance technician to help manage our facility and its upkeep. Candidates are encouraged to apply if they have experience with electrical, plumbing and HVAC work. The Facilities Manager will be responsible for the repair, upkeep and upgrades of our main office space. All work done must be tracked, completed safely and done in a timely and efficient manner. 

Responsibilities:

• Weekly observation of the entire facility for any new work that needs to be done
• Communication with department heads to complete requested work
• Upkeep up company entrances and exits with both safety and beautification in mind
• Perform upkeep or repair of building HVAC, plumbing or electrical
• Complete general repairs or cosmetic upgrades
• Track and report all repairs completed

What kind of education is needed to become a maintenance technician?

While there is no required education for a maintenance technician, there are an array of certifications that make someone desirable as a maintenance tech. These certifications will vary by state (as far as a requirement to be licensed/certified). That said, simply having knowledge in the following areas is great for a maintenance technician career:

• HVAC
• Plumbing
• Electrician
• Groundskeeping
• Painting
• General Handyman Repairs
• Engine Repair
• Carpentry
• Masonry

Apartment/Property Caretaker

This position is similar to a facilities manager but will often include the grounds of the property. Thus, you may see the job listed as “Groundskeeper.” It’s worth noting that this job title may come more often with residential type spaces rather than commercial. This means you will most likely have more residential-style tasks like painting, carpet replacement, or repairing a hole in the wall.

Electrical Maintenance Technician

This is one example of a very specific job you may see in this field. Other organizations may want an HVAC Tech or Plumbing Tech depending on their need. Ultimately, the company will be on the lookout for someone with very specific knowledge and skill set. These can often be found with larger organizations who will then dispatch the tech to different locations to complete their specialized work.

What are the common types of maintenance technician positions?

Given the various responsibilities of the job, there are several common positions you may encounter if you are looking for a career as a maintenance technician.

Fleet Maintenance

The “Fleet Maintenance” job can also be called “Maintenance Mechanic.” Regardless of the job title, the job duties are typically the same. This tech would be responsible for the upkeep of company vehicles. This can include cars and trucks along with golf carts, boats, heavy equipment or bikes.

Facilities Manager

This position comes with many different names but ultimately requires the tech to take care of the building(s) the company owns. This is often an all-encompassing job that includes the lighting, parking lot, machinery, furniture, plumbing and just about anything else inside the building. 

What kind of hours does a maintenance technician work?

This type of job will often work around a set schedule that may mimic a normal 9-5 workday. The caveat is that if something major occurs, the maintenance technician is considered to be on-call. This makes traveling difficult if you are the only tech available for your company, but these call-outs may not happen very often if you can keep up with general maintenance during your usual hours.

How long does it take to become a maintenance technician?

There is no set number of years of experience or education that determine who will hire you or your pay. This is largely because a maintenance technician can have various skills and certifications that are listed above but doesn’t have to have them all to do the job. Technically, you can become a tech with no formal education or past experience at all — it just may be difficult to do so. There are no set-in-stone requirements to become a maintenance technician.

Another reason there isn’t a requirement to become a tech is that certifications and license requirements can vary from state to state. For example, some states require anyone doing commercial plumbing work to be licensed.

Despite the state laws, certifications, licenses and specialized training can only cover some of the various skills a maintenance tech must possess. Your resume must speak to the rest of your skills that can’t be certified such as general repairs or customer service skills.

What kind of skills do you need to become a maintenance technician?

Maintenance technicians must have a variety of skills that span across the physical and technical. On the physical side of things, a tech must have the strength and stamina to complete labor-intensive work. Techs often have to lift heavy supplies such as wood, bags of cement, metal signs or machinery. Sometimes a technician will be responsible for digging a hole, painting a large room or even walking the premise of a site to see if anything requires maintenance. All these tasks require strength and stamina. Also, these tasks may take place in a cold warehouse or outside in the dog days of summer. These extreme conditions also require a maintenance technician to be prepared physically to fulfill the job.

On the technical side of the job, there are numerous skills a tech needs. Since we have touched on the exact trades a tech is likely to possess earlier in the article, we will turn our focus to skills you often can’t be taught in a program.

Maintenance technicians must be able to spot potential hazards and deal with them accordingly. These can include old or faulty wiring, a pothole in the parking lot, an out of date first aid kit or even a shelf that is top-heavy. Being able to identify and fix these hazards is invaluable to the company and the safety of all its employees.

Technicians must also be able to identify when preventative maintenance needs to be done and keep up with doing it. Company vehicles have tires that need rotated; buildings have fire extinguishers that need to be replaced; an office needs to upgrade to LED lighting. Having all of these aspects help a company to run smoothly, which is why it is so important for maintenance technicians to have an eye for upgrades or replacements before the need arises.

One other great skill a maintenance technician should possess is record keeping. Being a maintenance technician is certainly is no desk-job, but it does require someone who can accurately keep track of the supplies that are used or needed. Likewise, the costs associated with each task need to be accurately reported back to the company so that they can properly bill, pay for or report these repairs to whatever entity may ask. Someone lacking in organization or diligence should not apply because a maintenance technician will need all these skills.

What kind of tools does a maintenance technician use?

Given all of the possible work a maintenance tech can be doing from day-to-day, the number of tools that a technician can expect to use is vast. Each job is likely to require common hand tools and power tools such as drills, saws, screwdrivers, ratchets, hammers or sanders.

There may be some other specialized machinery or supplies a tech needs to use for specialized tasks. These could include a cement mixer, chemicals or motorized equipment (mowers, pressure washers, etc.).

While general hand tools or power tools will be the most common tools of the trade, other tools, equipment or supplies will vary based on the industry or task at hand. For a maintenance technician, it’s just a matter of what needs to be done that dictates what tools they will use.

It’s important to remember that a maintenance technician can expect to work with a computer at some point to record their work or to reorder new parts. Techs may also have a company vehicle that can assist in covering a large property and carrying the necessary tools and supplies to each job site. 

What kind of test does a maintenance technician have to pass?

As we discussed earlier, there is no industry or state-mandated test to become a maintenance technician. Employers, on the other hand, may administer tests of their own based on the skill set they require for the job.

For example, a company that will have you completing a lot of groundskeeping work may test you on your knowledge of seasonal plants or how to use a large mower. Some companies may use more standardized tests to see if you have a working knowledge of power tools or a particular billing system they use.

The only other tests you can expect to see when trying to find a job as a maintenance technician would be any state-required test to be licensed or certified in a particular trade, such as electrical work or plumbing. These would be administered by the state, and you would have a document to show your completion to present to any employers.

What kind of companies hire maintenance technicians?

Given the various jobs a maintenance tech is responsible for covering, there is no set industry that hires technicians. As long as there are repairs and upgrades to be made, a tech is needed. Some of the industries you may see maintenance technician jobs for are:

• Apartment Complexes
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Factories
• Office Buildings
• Theme Parks & Zoos
• City Governments
• Malls

Within a small organization may be hard to advance since their need is limited, but working with a larger organization means management opportunities. You can also specialize to take your skills to another position with higher pay. For instance, you could gain specialized knowledge such as HVAC or electrical, field service technician, or even special repair refrigerators, golf carts, etc.

What kind of jobs offer night shifts? 

Many different kinds of industries require night-shift employees. Any business that most of the 24-hours in a day will need employees to help the company function through the night. This includes hospitals, warehouses, airports, factories, hotels, gas stations and call centers. More or less, any company or industry that you can call upon in the middle of the night will have a night shift available. 

How do you get a night shift job with no experience? 

Night shift jobs don’t require any set amount of experience to be hired on. Like any job, it’s not necessarily when you do the job but howwell you do it. So if you are an excellent security guard with years of experience working the day shift, you probably won’t have any problem finding a security guard job on the night shift. 

Some companies may prefer that you are familiar with the differences a particular night-shift job may bring. A lack of experience on the night shift normally won’t have any bearing on you getting the job if you are qualified in all other aspects, but you can probably expect to have some on-the-job training so they can prepare you.

How many warehouse jobs offer night shifts?

Many warehouses utilize night shift workers to help their operations running smoothly. Night shift workers in warehouses are often responsible for picking orders, packing supplies, loading trucks for shipping, cleaning and restocking the warehouse for the next day. These jobs help the company finish any remaining tasks from the previous day and prepare for smooth operations the next day. 

Are overnight jobs good? 

Overnight jobs can be a great option for many people. As an added bonus, many night shift jobs pay more than day shifts for the same position. Sometimes the night shift has a slower workload and quieter environment, which can be a plus for man.

Yes, some overnight work can be boring, lonely and sometimes hazardous, but this isn’t always the case. Overnight jobs can be just as good as a day shift. It all depends on your personal preferences for a job and your desired schedule.

If you are a night owl, a night shift may be the best job option for you. If you are in need of some extra hours right after your day shift, a night shift job may be for you as well.

What kind of night shift jobs do hospitals offer? 

Since hospitals run all day every day, nearly any position you would see in a hospital during the day is also filled at night. Nurses, doctors, pharmacists, technicians, janitorial, cook staff and clerical positions are normally still going on in the middle of the night. This is not only to make sure that patients are well cared for but also to ensure that the mass amounts of paperwork, scheduling and billing that crosses hospital desks each day can be processed and completed. One area of the hospital that is always in desperate need of night shift workers is the ER. Having hands available to help with unplanned emergencies is a must.

What kind of night shift jobs pay well? 

There are many night shift jobs that offer a fair wage, some pay extremely well. As with any job, your pay is likely to be based on your experience, location or availability. Some night shift jobs that pay particularly well are:

• Online Tutoring – Online tutoring is sweeping the globe as children in other countries can learn English from native speakers. Many tutors are paid $20+ per hour!
• Warehouse Workers– Skilled warehouse workers are always in demand and often make more than their day-time counterparts at $20.00 per hour. 
• Nursing – Nurses are always in need, but especially at night when all is quiet at the hospital. For an average of $32.00 an hour, it sounds like a good gig!
• Bartender – You may be working for tips, but those tips can add up quickly. You also get to enjoy a lively work environment.
• Babysitting – Getting the kids fed and off to bed pays better than you think, on average $16.00 or more!
• Security Guard – Whether you have a quite night or an eventful one, you can make an average of $14.00 per hour.

Do night shift jobs pay better than day shift jobs? 

This depends. Some jobs do give you a small pay bump since you are working a non-traditional schedule. Some even offer a >“shift differential” which is normally attached to commission-based jobs.

What hours do night shifts run? 

Night shift, sometimes called third shift or graveyard shift, will often run from around 10 P.M. to 7 A.M. Depending on the company and need, these hours may fluctuate slightly but overall a shift will last through the night and into the next morning.

You may be wondering what kind of night shift jobs are part-time, especially if you are not interested in working into the wee hours of the morning. Many night shift jobs can be part-time. This need will often be based on the employer’s needs but the option is often available. These shifts can be found in warehouses, factories, bakeries, call centers, hospitals and more.

What are the best night shift jobs? 

The best night shift job really depends on you, your skillset, goals and what you enjoy. Luckily, there are many possible jobs in different industries that offer night shift positions. Choose the industry that fits your needs best — whether it is manufacturing, medical, logistics, security or something else — and see what opportunities are available in your area. If you want to find a night shift job quickly or with less hassle, you might consider talking with a staffing agency to get you in the door at a company offering night shift positions. There is no end to the jobs that you will see with a night shift available and so the best one that fits your wants and career dreams is out there waiting for you.

What is the downside of working the night shift? 

Night-shift jobs do come with their own set of challenges and training, given that the environment is slightly different. For one, you have to get used to working at night when your body is normally used to going to bed.This adjustment period may be difficult at first but it is not impossible to overcome.

Next, you will have to be aware of the hazards a night-shift job may bring if you are working outside, such as low visibility or dangerous conditions. For example, if your job includes you driving a vehicle at night, these conditions can be difficult on the eyes and senses. You may also be faced with hazards such as criminal activity or wild animals in some cases.

Another downside to night-shift work is the pace. Many jobs that take place at night have a much slower pace or workload. On its face, this may sound nice and in some respects, it is, but it can also dull your sense of urgency or attention to detail when work does come in. This is especially dangerous for people who work in the medical or emergency responder industry.

Do night shifts work well for students? 

Night shift work can be a good option for students, but it depends on what their daytime schedule is. For example, if a student is in class 8+ hours a day or has obligations that keep them awake for many hours before their shift, it’s probably not the best fit. Like anyone with a 9-5 day job, your body needs sleep. With a night shift position, you still need sleep but will likely have to find it during the day. If your schedule as a student can’t allow you to sleep during the day then it isn’t likely you can maintain your courses and job efficiently.

If you have a schedule that allows you to sleep during the day then, by all means, take work that is through the night. This may be a great opportunity since night-shift jobs often have a smaller workload. This means you will have time between calls or rounds or tasks to complete homework or study for your courses.

What are the best night jobs for students? 

As we discussed earlier, if you can’t find time to catch up on sleep during the day, then a night shift job may not be for you. However, if you still need the cash and a night shift will work for your schedule, then you may want to consider something part-time. For example, you can work 10 P.M. to 2 A.M., which will still allow you to see a paycheck each week and catch some sleep before class the next day.

Whether you are able to work full or part-time on a night shift some positions may work best for a student’s needs of study time. A few positions to consider are:

• Call Center Representative
• Hotel Desk Clerk
• Parking Attendant
• 24-Hour Gym Attendant
• Babysitter
• Online Tutoring
• Online Proof-reading

What kind of night jobs pay in cash? 

It is very difficult to find a constant job assignment that pays in cash and is also legal. Most jobs that pay under the table or in cash are temporary or one-off assignments. These short-term options, though, maybe a good test run for you if you aren’t yet sure if you would like a night job. Often, the best way to go about finding these opportunities is to visit a business directly and ask about any night-shift, cash payment opportunities they have available. Some of the most common cash-paying, overnight positions out there are:

• Babysitting
• Stocking
• Janitorial
• Maintenance
• Tour Guide or Attraction Attendant
• Mover
• Picking and Packing

How do I find a night time job near me? 

Like any job, the easiest place to start is the internet. You can type “night shift jobs near me” or “night shift jobs” and your zip code. You should receive back search results with all open positions, their specific work hours and requirements.

It’s also a great idea to talk to yourlocal recruiterat your local staffing agency (also called a temp agency, employment agency or temping agency). A recruiting agent can help you find a night shift job that will also fit your skills and priorities (benefits, hours, commute, etc.). They may even know of some available night shift jobs that don’t appear on the usual job boards. 

What is the job description of an assembly production position? 

Assembler, Production Line Specialist, Assembly/Production Line, Assembly Line Processor. There are a number of names that this type of job can fall under. All of these are used to describe someone who puts together products. A job description similar to the one below will be what you are likely to find in openings for these assembly/production jobs:

Assembler

Responsible for overseeing and completing the assembly of specific products along the production line. 

Job Duties Include:

• Reading blueprints to understand assembly guidelines
• Collecting parts for assembly
• Assembling products rapidly while preserving product integrity
• Moving assembled products to the next area of production
• Maintaining all company guidelines of quality and safety
• Great hand-eye coordination skills required
• Ability to work extended periods while standing

What is the salary of an assembly worker? 

Assembly workers’ salaries can range greatly depending on the area of the country you live in, your prior experience, along with the type of assembly you are performing. Right now, the average hourly pay for an assembly production worker is about $13.00 an hour or $28,000 annually. This average, however, comes from a wide range of pay scales based on the factors mentioned earlier. For example, many assembly-line jobs in the automotive industry often see a higher pay — $16.00 hourly or $33,000 annually — due to the more complex assembly these employees are tasked with. Vice versa, assembly jobs putting together simpler items such as plastic siding or packaging food can run on the lower side of the pay scale, at $11.00 per hour.

Many times, these vast differences in pay are not just related to the item being assembled, but the prior experience or expertise as well. Many lower-paid positions are entry-level and require little to no prior experience to be hired. For more difficult builds, a company may want five or more years of experience and possibly even special certifications. Some assemblers utilize forklifts or solder in order to complete their tasks. With this being the case, a company would be looking for a specialized assembler with these certifications and, as you guessed, these certifications also come with a higher salary.

The great thing is that there is room for growth if you want to make this job a career! While you may be working on the lower side of the pay range at the start, you would be able to walk into a job with no prior experience or training. From there you could easily specialize by pursuing different certifications all while racking up years of experience to list on your resume.

Where do assembly production specialists work? 

Given the nature of the job, many assembly production specialists can be found in a factory setting. They often work along production lines or production stations so that they can assemble their products and then pass them along to the next station in the production process. 

There are some assembly jobs that work in outdoor or warehouse environments where there may be less structure to the production area. The job functions the same way though, to assemble and build a product.

Often, this job will require employees to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, fire-retardant clothing or steel-toed boots. This is usually because the materials, products or process of assembly can be dangerous. Tools may malfunction, parts may get dropped, and so these measures are often required to keep workers safe.

Likewise, many of these positions require a lot of standing, walking, squatting, lifting, pulling or pushing depending on the assembly needs. Since an assembler is taking raw materials and turning them into a finished product, there is always a lot of movement involved in the process. This means that if you are considering a job as an assembler you need to make sure you have the strength and stamina to withstand these tedious working conditions.

What kind of skills do you need to work in assembly production?

Assembly jobs take place in a fast-paced environmentthat requires a great deal of accuracy. That being said, it is important that you are able to handle the stress of a fast-moving workday while completing your assigned tasks precisely. As well, Assemblers must be dexterous since they are most often working with their hands to put products together.

Assembly production jobs usually require you to be able to read blueprints, compute simple math and be able to use an array of tools. In addition to these skills, an Assembler should be physically fit enough to have the strength and stamina to keep up with the work.

What qualifications do you need to meet to work in assembly production? 

Just like with pay, your required qualifications will vary based on what exactly you will be assembling. Simple products are likely to be entry-level jobs that requireno prior experience or training. When you begin to produce specialized products such as vehicle parts, electrical systems or medical equipment, the employer may require previous experience or specialized certifications to take you on as an employee. 

To begin working as an Assembler immediately, you don’t have to have any special qualifications. As we discussed before, you may start in the lower range of the pay scale, but there are jobs available with no special qualifications needed.

If you are looking for something a bit more specialized or with higher pay, you can pursue certifications in special or hazardous materials, electrical wiring, industry safety standards, or soldering. These certifications can help boost you to the top of the candidate list for those higher-paying assembly jobs.

What kind of training do you need to work in assembly production?

There is no training that is required prior to taking an Assembly job, but there is likely to be some after you accept the position. Companies have to teach you not only how to put the products together, but how to use any tools or special materials according to their policies. These training sessions will be on the job and can last a few weeks after you have been hired on. They may come in a formal training style where you report to a trainer and training space or you may simply learn as you work as an apprentice on the floor. This will depend on the company.

As far as specialized training goes prior to applying for an assembly or production job, while you are not required to have any before applying, there are some that can help boost your resume. As we discussed earlier, these can include:

• Hazardous Materials Handling
• Electrical Wiring
• Industry Safety Standards
• Soldering
• Forklift Operator’s License

How do I get hired for an assembly production position?

As with any job, you can start your job search by Googling “assembly production jobs” and your city or zip code to find general openings nearest to you. Depending on the amount of manufacturing in your area, you may be overwhelmed by the number of results and trying to decipher what company, job responsibilities or benefits may be best to go with. If this is the case, your best option may be to speak with a local recruiter. A recruiter or staffing agency can take your non-negotiables (pay, benefits, desired shift, etc.) and help find you a job that helps fit these needs. As well, staffing agencies often have jobs available with the companies they work for that you may not be able to find online.

Once you have spoken with a recruiter or applied online to a few jobs you should prepare your resume to show relevant job information. For Assembly jobs, it is important to show your interviewer any relevant skills or experience you have as it relates to the job. These can be:

• Skills you possess that the job requires
• Experience building or repairing things
• Familiarity with tools
• Special training or certifications<

By preparing your resume and collecting your thoughts on your most relevant items to the job you can shine at your interview as the right candidate for the job.

How much do welders make in a year?

The average annual salary for a welder was $39,600, as of July 2019. This wage may be higher depending on your employer. It’s also important to note that many welders get paid commission for the number of pieces or jobs they complete in addition to their usual salary.

How much do welders typically make per hour?

Welding, like most trade work, pays well. The average hourly rate in the United States for welders is $19.00 per hour, although you can make much more or much less than that depending on a number of factors.

The going rate for welders depends on what company you work for, what your specific skill set and qualifications are, and of course, your geographical location.

As the old saying goes, “location, location, location.” Where you live really will affect your salary. The highest paying states are New York and Massachusetts, who often pay close to this average $19.00 hourly rate. Florida and North Carolina though, are some of the lowest-paying states with an hourly wage closer to $14.00 an hour. That said, places that pay more oftentimes have higher costs of living and places that pay less can also have lower costs of living.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that welders are often paid commission in addition to their salary. This is especially common in the manufacturing sector. So even if your hourly wage is on the low side of the national average, you could still bring in a big paycheck if you complete a lot of commission work.

What is the typical job description of a welder? 

If you are on the hunt for a welding job, you are likely to see a job description similar to this:

In search of a hard-working, passionate individual who is a certified welder. Will be responsible for producing pipe welds that consistently meet company standards. Must also follow company policies of safety and integrity. Must be able to pass 6G Welding Test on 6 sch. 40 Carbon Steel: 6010 Root 7018, as well as pass a drug test. All equipment is provided.

How many years does it take to become a welder?

Welder training can take anywhere from 7 to 16 months. This seems like a large gap, but that is due mostly to the many different specialist training you can take on. Because a welder can work with many different kinds of metals in many different situations and for a multitude of purposes, there is a lot to cover when it comes to educating a welder. 

Are welders paid weekly?

Employers determine their employees’ pay schedules, so there is no set standard for what jobs get paid when. Some companies will pay every week while others may pay bi-weekly. That said, it is rare to see any welding employer who pays on a monthly basis.

This is a great question to ask your future employer in an interview so you can budget for your needs going forward.

What kinds of welding positions are there? 

The easy answer is there are a lot. There are many different types of welding certifications. Welding certifications and codes exist because there are so many types of welding patterns and materials to work with.

Some companies may need a welder to construct metal furniture that requires simple weld points. Other companies are creating vehicles that need to withstand hundreds of pounds of pressure. Even others may utilize welders to precisely cut metals for production. With all of these possible needs, there are a plethora of welding opportunities that may take you to an indoor factory, an outdoor construction yard, or even hanging off the side of a building!

Where do welders work?

Given the nature of the job, welders are not going to be found in an office space. Welding jobs exist in construction and manufacturing because of the line of work. Shipyards, car manufacturers, aerospace companies, building construction and industrial manufacturing are the most common places a welding opportunity would be available. Other operations that may use welders include utilities and city governments. These companies will often have welders install pipelines, weld bridges or repair existing metal infrastructure.

What kind of education do you need to have to become a welder? 

Many vocational schools offer welder training programs. These programs can take anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on the intensity of the classes. The classes will include hands-on training, best safety practices and the study of metals. 

Another similar option, sans the classroom time, is an apprenticeship. These are paid jobs that train you while you work. Most of this training is hands-on and, since you are working, you often get a better picture of the operations of the business as a whole. Apprenticeships, while more hands-on, do often take longer to complete — usually a few years.

Either option is a great way to pursue this career, but neither will get you to the finish line completely. No matter which education route you choose, you will still need to become certified to be hirable.

What is the job outlook for welder positions?

If you are considering welding as a career, it is likely to be a safe bet. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that welding jobs are projected to grow over the next few years. It attributes this growth to the aging infrastructure of the nation (i.e., bridges, highways and buildings) that will need the expertise of welders to be rebuilt, repaired or maintained. Also, there is a massive shortage of people with a skilled trade to fill jobs in the manufacturing sector. This industry sector, in particular, relies heavily on welders who help them craft their goods.

What is the difference between a coded welder and a certified welder? 

A certified welder is one who has been certified, on paper, to be able to physically weld pieces that comply with a set of industry standards. These pieces must be welded correctly so they can stay strong under pressure. A certified welder is, technically, certified to weld but may not have complete knowledge of how to weld for a particular company or material. This is where a coded welder title comes in.

A coded welder is one who has learned a specific “code” or specific weld practice. These codes are normally material or industry-specific, such as pipe welding. A welder who holds both certification and codes is a wealth of knowledge. Normally, though, a certification is all that is required to be hired on with a company. The company will most likely send you for code training after being hired so you are familiar with their specific welding needs.

What are the different types of welding certifications?

Each welding certification and code is based around the types of metals being welded or the type of weld pattern being used. There are numerous types, but some of the most common are:

• Structural Steel
• Structural Aluminum
• Bridge Welding
• TIG
• MIG
• Robotic Arc Welding
• Pipe Welding

What is a welders certification?

A welder’s certification is a document issued by a trusted entity (in the U.S. normally the American Welding Society) vouching for your skills as a welder. It is proof that you know how to perform basic welds to a national standard and can do so with instruction and safety in mind. While this is a very important document to pursue it simply verifies you know how to weld at a basic level.

To get a job or move up in your career as a welder, you will need to find valuable welding codes. Determine which codes will show you are competent in specialized welding areas, such as pipe or bridge welding.

What are the typical hours for a welder?

Welders can work nearly any hour or schedule depending on weather, industry and need. Some welders work standard hours while others work may depend on various business circumstances.

For instance, if you are constructing a building, your company may not need you to weld or cut until the survey crew has completed their work first. In instances like these, you may be called in at a later hour to work around when the job-site can use you.

This isn’t always the case though. If you work in a car manufacturing plant, it is highly likely you will be working the same shift each day and for weeks at a time. That’s because these facilities can better plan their need for welders based on demand, and they don’t have to work around things like weather. You may also be asked to travel for work, especially if welders are in low supply with your company or geographic area. If this is the case, you may be working odd hours that accommodate the traveling.

Can you get your welders certification online? 

While there are several great educational resources available online for the welding field, there is not a legitimate way to become fully certified online. Given the dangerous nature of welding, grinding or soldering, it is required that you take an in-person certification test to prove your competency.

Many sites offer courses on the basics of welding, safety and blueprint reading. Some others may introduce you to working with particular metals or specific industry standards. None of these online courses can provide you with your full certification. An online certification also will not give you the hands-on experience you need to be successful as a welder.

What is the career outcome for a welder? 

If you want to climb the ladder as a welder, there is plenty of room to climb if you are willing to learn. There are a number of advancement opportunities in this field that can help you grow your skills and paychecks.

Often, welders become certified in another welding specialty such as a Tig Welder or Combo Welder. These specialized paths can mean job security and greater pay, since they are the next step in welding school and knowledge. You can also go the route of teacher and instructor certify future welders. 

If you’re really brave — or just looking for something different — you can be trained on extremely specialized welding, such as underwater welding or military-support welding. These jobs pay extremely well, some in the $100,000 range and more, but — as you’ve probably guessed — these jobs are often dangerous.

No matter which route you take, it is clear there is a lot of opportunity for welders. 

What is the typical job description of a warehousing material handler?

A warehouse material handler job description would look something like this:

In search of a reliable and talented individual to act as a Material Handler for our production line. Job duties include organizing supplies, delivering necessary supplies to the production line, pulling orders for shipping and arranging finished products. Additional related duties include labeling product locations, preparing finished items for shipping, and data entry of stock used or created. Candidate must be great at multitasking, time management, organizing and staying detail-oriented.

What does a material handler do in general?

A material handler is very important since this person can make or break warehouse and factory production. Material handlers are responsible for maintaining and organizing all the materials throughout the production process.

What is the salary of a material handler for a warehouse?

The average salary for a material handler is about $29,000 annually or $14.00 an hour. As with any job, this wage can vary depending on the company and location.

On the low side, a material handler can expect about $11.00 per hour or a little under $23,000 each year. On the high side, you may see upwards of $19.00 per hour, which equates to an annual salary of $39,500.

Again, these wages depend on several factors, including where you live. If you live in Wyoming or Iowa, you are in luck! These states have the highest average pay for material handlers. If you find yourself in California or Hawaii, however, you may be at the tail end of this list of average wages per state.

How do I find material handler jobs near me?

You can find a material handler job just about anywhere you live. This position is very common among warehouses, factories, shipyards and construction sites. That being said, at least one of these listed industries are probably near your location. A simple Google search for “Material Handler jobs near me” should provide you with many opportunities.

You should also reach out to your local recruiter so you will have someone who can keep an ear to the ground on possible job openings. Many times, recruiters may be privy to positions with their partner companies that are not open to the public. As well, a recruiter can match you with a job or company that fits your personality, skillset or even lifestyle requirements (such as specific shifts or insurance needs).

What kind of education do I need to become a material handler?

While you can snag a material handler position straight out of high school or with a GED, but some companies do require more. Many material handlers are required to attend company or OSHA-approved training course once they are hired. This is to ensure that they know how to properly handle the materials they will be working with at a specific company. Some material handlers have to deal with items that are heavy, sharp or abrasive. This requires training so they and others don’t get hurt. Other handlers may have to move chemicals, which require training so no one is in danger. Even other handlers may be put on a track to become forklift certified as the materials they move require the use of heavy equipment.

All this is to say that, to become a material handler, you are not required to have any prior training or education but that you should expect it to be a part of the job as you move throughout your career. You can even get ahead of the game by taking on some of these pieces of training beforehand if you are interested in a particular industry or company and know what training and certifications they may want.

What kind of other qualifications do I need to think about to become a material handler?

Again, while there is no formal schooling that you need before becoming a material handler, there are certifications and training opportunities you can seek out to help your resume and job chances. These can include OSHA safety training, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or hazardous waste management.

You may also want to work on your physical fitness. This job requires many hours of standing, walking, squatting, lifting and moving materials so your endurance and strength must be ready for the work too.

Finally, you may want to consider your prior work experience and resume. If you are applying to become a material handler it looks better on your resume if you have some prior experience in the work environment you will be entering. Having prior experience in a warehouse, factory or construction site indicates to potential employers that you understand the working conditions and goal of the job.

Where do material handlers work?

Given the universal skillset that a material handler brings to the table, this position can be seen in many different industries. Material handlers will typically work in warehouse, factory or construction-site industries. There are many other industries that can utilize a material handler’s skill. An automotive garage may need a material handler who understands how to move, store and maintain flammable liquids like oil and gas. A grocery store may need a material handler who understands how to manage and store food with expiration dates. One thing to keep in mind with these other industries is they may not label the job as a “material handler.” A grocery store may call the position “Inventory Manager” and the automotive garage may call the job “Hazardous Materials Specialist.” While the job title may vary, the overall duties remain the same.

What types of industries can you be a material handler in?

As we discussed above, there isn’t a finite list of industries that require a material handler’s skills. However, there are likely a few common industries you will notice in your job search. These industries include anything that normally falls into the warehousing, manufacturing or construction businesses — think carmakers, construction sites, utility plants or even chemical storage sites.

The reason these industries are so commonly related to a material handler job is simply the nature of their business. These types of industries often work with large amounts of dangerous materials which can be corrosive chemicals, metals that are sharp or heavy objects that could hurt someone if not properly handled. These industries also move large quantities of items, such as a manufacturing plant, so they need someone who can efficiently and accurately organize and move these materials.

What kind of skills do you need for a material handler?

Since a material handler is responsible for the “fuel” of the operation (i.e.— raw materials that become products, or simply the finished products themselves), there are some skills that you should possess to be a good fit for this job. For a material handler to perform well, they should have the following skills:

• Organization
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Physically fit
•  Safety-oriented
• Hand-eye coordination
• Multi-tasking

What are similar jobs to a material handler?

When seeking out a particular position, there are quite a few similar titles that a job may fall under. A material handler is no different. If you are looking for material handler jobs, be on the look-out for similar jobs with slightly different names:

• Stock Handler
• Package Handler
• Freight Handler
• Bulk Material Handler
• Inventory Handler
• Chemical Handler
• Parts Handler

Beyond alternate job titles, some jobs are similar to material handling in the work being done. A Picker is a similar position since they are responsible for picking out exact parts or products to complete orders. A Warehouse/Line Operator is responsible for running a production line or warehouse. This job requires similar organization and time-management skills. Finally, an Order Selector is similar to material handling but normally occurs in the outgoing portion of a warehouse. This job involves picking out finished products, packaging them and preparing them for shipment to the consumer.

Another option to consider, if you are looking to move beyond material handling, is jobs in the same field but with different responsibilities. You may choose to pursue your forklift operator’s license or welding certification and move into one of these jobs, both of which are also often based in the same industries a material handler would be found in.

What is it like to be the lead material handler?

Becoming a lead material handler is fantastic news. It means a pay raise and direct reports, but it also means more responsibilities. Lead material handlers are responsible for all the normal day-to-day tasks as a material handler, but they are also often responsible for coordinating the activities of other material handlers for various areas of operations. A lead material handler needs to organize operations so each department gets the materials they need, when they need them. They are also responsible for overseeing all inventory of materials and restocking these promptly.

Do you need a license to become a material handler?

You do not require a license or prior certification to move into a material handler position. This makes the job the perfect opportunity if you are straight out of high school, college or simply looking for a job without any prior experience.

Many times, a company will take you on without prior training because they want to provide you with their training and necessary certifications. There will be some companies that prefer prior experience or particular certifications, especially if their industry works with special materials. For example, if you are looking to become a material handler at a water treatment facility, it would be a good idea to take a course on proper chemical handling since you may be working with chlorine or hazardous waste disposal in case you are responsible for handling the by-products after the water is cleaned.

Some more general licenses you can receive that will work for any material handler position are safety-related training such as CPR or First Aid. No matter if you work with dangerous materials or not, safety is always an appreciated skill when working in manufacturing or warehousing industries.

What kind of training do you need to become a material handler?

You won’t require any prerequisite training to become a material handler but it is never a bad idea. If you have the time and finances, you may want to seek out optional training that can boost your resume. This can include OSHA safety training, specialized materials handling or first aid certification. These additional pieces of training or certifications may mean the difference between you and another candidate coming in for the same job.

What is a CNC machinist’s salary?

A CNC machinist can expect an average salary starting at $18.00 an hour or $37,000 annually. This wage can run the gambit, however, based on several factors such as location and previous experience. Hourly wages for a CNC machinist can be as low as $16.00 and upwards of $50.00 per hour for those with advanced skills!

As of 2019, New York and Massachusetts have the highest average wages for CNC machinists coming in around $46,000 a year. North Carolina currently holds the title for the lowest average wage at $33,000 annually. These location averages are normally related to the demand for a particular job coupled with the supply of skilled workers available.

Like many jobs, there is also room for growth that can help increase your pay. You can become a supervisor, a journeyman machinist, CNC technician, or even move into another industry-related field such as welder or forklift driver. Expanding your knowledge and experience is never a bad bet when trying to boost your salary.

What does a CNC machinist do?

A CNC machinist is responsible for overseeing manufacturing machines. These machines are labeled as “Computer Numerical Controlled,” which essentially means they are programmed and then run by a computer to complete their manufacturing task.

It is quickly becoming a thing of the past for a person to stand and pull a lever thousands of times a day to help a machine do its job. Now, we rely on computer-controlled machines that can run themselves once they are set-up and programmed. A CNC machinist has the enormous duty of setting-up, maintaining and programming these machines. On paper, it may not sound difficult, but this job requires a great amount of knowledge and attention to detail.

What kind of environment does a CNC machinist work in?

Most CNC machinists work in a warehouse or factory setting. As a result, you will most likely be standing for much of the day and working around loud noises, heavy machinery and possibly even extreme temperatures.

You may also be required to wear a specific uniform depending on the warehouse environment. Some employers may require employees to wear coveralls, dust masks, steel-toe boots, hard hats or even gloves.

What does a CNC machinist do day-to-day?

Day-to-day, CNC machinists can expect to come into work and be assigned to one of many machines in the facility, depending on what products need to be manufactured that day. The machine may need to be set-up, programmed or calibrated before starting. Once the machine is ready, you will likely stick around to run the machine. Once items are done being processed by the machine, they will need to be removed, inspected and packaged for their next destination in the facility.

You may not work on the same machine all day. Some days may be mostly spent programming machines for operators to use. You may also be expected to work on a shift schedule rather than the typical 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule. Since many of these machinist jobs are in the manufacturing sector, the company will likely need a machinist on-site around the clock in case a machine needs to be programmed, calibrated or repaired. This isn’t always the case, but it’s possible, especially if you are the newest machinist within the company.

What kind of skills do CNC machinists need to have?

CNC machinists are both talented and exceptionally knowledgeable. This job often requires heavy lifting, tool work, familiarity with manufacturing, and stamina that is needed to work in a factory setting. On the flip side, this job requires a great deal of computer, math and mechanical knowledge. Without both sets of skills, machinists would be unable to set up the machines for manufacturing. They would also not be able to move and place parts where they are required to go next. This job also requires a great deal of attention to detail, precision and problem-solving skills. These additional skills ensure that the machinist can guarantee quality work, prevent errors and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

What kind of hours do CNC machinists work?

Many machinists work regular business hours but, given the primary industries that utilize CNC machinists, you may not always find normal 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. hours. Companies that use CNC machines are normally in the manufacturing sector. Because of this, these companies need to produce their products whenever supply demands it.

As a result, hours may be during standard business hours or hours could include nights and weekends. With this demand comes the need for a machinist who can keep the machines programmed and working to meet the demand. This is why you may find yourself working a second or third shift — especially if you are new.

You may also be required to be “on-call” if you don’t work these later hours. This way, the company can have you come in only when you are needed outside of typical business hours. While being on-call is a great opportunity for overtime and having your weekends and nights available, it also means that you may have to stop on a dime to be at work.

Having to work nights, weekends and being on-call have their pros and cons, so it is important to consider what hours the companies near you are offering.

What kind of education do CNC machinists need?

There are multiple steps to becoming a CNC machinist that require a good bit of time and commitment to education. You may be wondering what kind of school do CNC machinists go to. CNC machinists have a few options when it comes to their education.

Some may choose a vocational school, trade school or technical institute. Here, you will learn how to complete many advanced techniques in a classroom and hands-on setting.

You can also learn how to become a machinist on the job. This route normally means you are employed with a company in an entry-level position, but while you are on the job, you are also learning to become a CNC machinist for this company. You will likely work under a journeyman or senior CNC machinist who will teach you the ropes of machining.

In this digital world we live in there is also an online option for CNC education. This option is similar to a vocational option in that you will be learning in a classroom-like setting through the web. The one element an online element is lacking is the hands-on education. Many online institutions don’t provide this part of the coursework. With an online option, you also need to be aware of scams. Before you pay for a program, make sure you do your research to determine the online course is legitimate.

Any school option will likely take a few years — oftentimes two — but can help get you on track to the career you are dreaming of. Once you finish either of these schooling options, you will next need to be certified to become an official CNC machinist.

During this time, it is a good idea to get some working experience under your belt for when your formal education is finished. You can use this opportunity to work in a factory or warehouse-type setting and gain some experience to list on your resume. You may also be able to do some practice runs in your chosen career as a CNC Operator. This means that you have the knowledge and ability to run the CNC machines, but you are not certified to program or troubleshoot them.

Once this education is completed, you will also need to be certified. This step is very important because, without this certification, you are not officially a CNC machinist or programmer, no matter how much schooling you have taken.

One great thing about choosing the vocational school option is that they will likely include the certification process in your program. If you went the apprenticeship route, you will likely need to seek out certification on your own. This can easily be found through a Google search or by speaking to your journeyman.

There are several certifications you can obtain at this point. Each certification is closely related to a particular industry or machine type you will be working with. In an ideal situation, you would have as many relevant certifications as possible to make you a much more desirable candidate.

In reality, when you are first starting off, it may be best to go with the NIMS certification (National Institute of Metalworking Skills). The test for this certification will include a written exam to test your knowledge as well as a hands-on component to test your skills. This is the most recommended certification for general employment but as we said before, there are many other certifications available to help you grow in the position.
If you plan to work for a specific company, is best practice to see or ask what certifications they require or find most desirable. Obviously, you’ll want to do this before you choose to get certified. Either way, it’s a great place to start on the road to employment as a CNC machinist.

Once you have your certification in-hand, you will next need to begin your job hunt. This may be easy if you took the apprenticeship route and can step right into the position with the company you learned from. However, if you are starting the search fresh, you will need to take a few extra steps.

One of these is to prepare your resume. Like any resume, you will want to include your prior work experience as well as your machinist qualifications. This will encompass your certifications and schooling credentials. Next, you will begin the search for a CNC machinist job. This can start with a simple Google search, or you can meet with a local recruiter who can guide you to these specific jobs in your area.

What kind of training do CNC machinists need?

Beyond the normal schooling and certification that CNC machinists require, there may be additional training that the company requires or a machinist opts for. If it is a company requirement, this training may be for safety, company protocol, or for new machinery or parts the company may be using. If the training is something you opt for, it is likely additional certifications that can help progress your career and knowledge of the trade. You may even be able to convince your employer to pay for this additional training since it also benefits them to have a skilled machinist on their team.

What is a job description of a CNC machinist?

If you are in the market for a position as a CNC machinist, you will likely run across a job description similar to the following:
“We are looking for a skilled CNC Machinist with programming certification. You will be responsible for accurately and safely setting up, programming, or running of the CNC machinery using G-code. This should be done with the utmost precision to maintain the quality of our products. You will be responsible for quality control and accurate measurements of finished components, keeping CNC machines clean, performing any routine maintenance on the machines, and following all company safety protocol.”

What kind of certification do CNC machinists need?

There are numerous certification options for machinists to pursue and each one is dependant on the industry or specialized machine. While no one specific certification is needed, the one that is most recommended to be hireable is the NIMS certification (National Institute of Metalworking Skills). You may want to check with your potential employers though to see what certification they find most desirable for their production. You can have multiple certifications throughout your career that will make you a much more attractive candidate in future employment opportunities.

How do you find an apprenticeship as a CNC machinist?

Even though the word apprenticeship is being used, please understand that this is a paid job with the intent of teaching you while you work. That being said, you can find a machinist apprenticeship just like you would find a normal job. This can be done through a simple google search and you will find these positions are often entry-level with little experience requirements.

Can you find trust-worthy CNC machinist training online?

Trustworthy training is available online but it will require a bit of leg-work to make sure it is legitimate. While there is no official agency putting their stamp on online content, one of the easiest ways to know if an online program is credible is through its past clientele. It’s a good idea to choose a training program that has trained other employees for Fortune 500 companies and other well-known companies.

Are there entry-level CNC machinist jobs?

Since a CNC machinist is a career that requires certification, you likely won’t find an entry-level position where you can walk off the street with zero qualifications. Upon receiving your certifications, you may be able to snag a job with no prior on-site experience, but, you will have a better chance of being hired if you have prior experience working as a machinist. During your training, it is a good idea to take on a job that will allow you to snag some relatable experience, such as in a warehouse or factory line experience.

Can you find part-time machinist jobs?

There is always an exception to the rule, but in most cases, no, you are not likely to find part-time work as a CNC machinist. Simply put, this job often requires many hours on multiple machines. That said, machinists are highly sought after. You may be able to work out a deal with a company near you that gives you a part-time or more flexible schedule. It never hurts to ask.

What is the demand for machinists?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between now and 2026, there will be little to no change in the demand for CNC machinists. They predict that by 2026 there will be an additional 8,000 jobs in addition to the natural replacement of existing CNC machinists who retire or leave the industry.

How do I find CNC machinist jobs near me?

The wonderful thing about CNC machinist jobs is that they are practically everywhere! With these jobs primarily being in the manufacturing sector, it is highly likely there is a factory, plant or warehouse near you that would need a machinist. That being said, you can easily Google “CNC machinist jobs near me” and be provided with several open positions. Another option is to meet with your local recruiter. This option is great for a few reasons.

First, a recruiter will usually be aware of opportunities near your area that are not open to the public on job boards. This is often because staffing services have special relationships with local companies to help them find the best candidate as quickly and easily as possible.

Secondly, a recruiter will get to know you on a personal level. This allows them to help place you in a job or with a company that fits your personality and skill set. Lastly, a recruiter can help you sniff out the perfect job if you have particular boxes that must be checked. If you have to work regular business hours for personal reasons, they can help pair you with a company or job that would fit these needs.

Whether you’re just starting out in the world of work, you took a long employment break and are ready to get back into the job market, or you want to try to jump into a new field you have no experience in, starting out without the experience desires is difficult. 

If you are asking yourself, “How do I find work without any job experience?”, you’re not alone. Many people are on the hunt just like you and are also lacking the experience they require or desire to snag their next position.

Many companies areaware of this trend, and some are beginning to shift their hiring practices so they can snag great, but untraditional, employees.

Despite your gaps, not having the necessary experience isn’t as much of a dead end as you would think. While the journey to your new career may be a bit harder given the circumstances, it’s not impossible. Below are some ideas and considerations if you happen to be in the “no experience” boat.

Look for entry-level options

One of the first avenues you are likely to pursue in your job search is to find out what kind of jobs don’t require experience. The common answer here is to seek out entry-level positions. 

Entry-level positions are jobs a company needs to be filled quickly and easily because they are normally critical to the day-to-day activities of the company. The actions performed in the job can usually be taught quickly so that employees can begin working at full capacity in a fairly short amount of time. You will notice that these jobs commonly fall under the customer service, data entry or physical labor umbrella of work. You can normally even find these positions by simply searching “No experience required” on job board websites. 

Translate your experience

You may be asking yourself, “How do I write a resume with no job experience?” While the limited experience you do have may not seem relevant at first glance, you may be surprised how well many skills can translate across different careers. For example, if you have been a server in a restaurant and are looking to move into an accounting environment, it may seem like your resume is irrelevant. Think again.

As a server, you have had to utilize skills such as customer service, multi-tasking, problem-solving, teamwork and time management. If you truly have no job experience to put down then pull from your own life experiences. If you are a mother, you are likely great at multi-tasking and have patience. If you are a farmer, you have experience in labor-intensive jobs, project management, and even a knowledge of horticulture or livestock.

When applying for a job, it’s not always about the titles you’ve held in the past, but rather the skills you had to use each day. Spell these skills out on your resume so interviewers can easily see that you do have relevant experience to the job you are applying for.

Make it a side hustle

Sometimes the job you are looking to apply for is just too drastic of a change from your available experience. If you are a customer service agent with dreams of becoming a personal trainer, it is a huge risk to quit your day job to pursue something you have never done before. Gain some knowledge, experience and even potential connections by taking on a job as your side hustle.

Even if your ambitions don’t include you running your own business, this is still a great option to get some further experience under your belt. You take weekend or night shifts or even work busy holidays.

Also, you will be considered part-time so a company may be more willing to take you on despite your lack of experience if they are only paying a part-time wage. You, however, are the one winning since you will have extra cash-in-hand and more content for your resume.

Work for less pay

If you lack experience, you may need to make a trade-off by accepting less pay. That is not to say you should work for free, but this willingness may convince a company to take you on. 

Once you have proven yourself and your skill set, you will have the leverage to ask for more money. This is never anyone’s first choice when trying to snag a job, but it may be a necessary evil if you aren’t having luck in the job scene. This may be your last resort, which is completely understandable. That said, if you are just starting out, you will more than likely be working the less desirable jobs for less pay than others with more experience. 

You are paid for your experience. When you have proven yourself, you will have many more opportunities open to you. While the world has changed a lot in the last couple of decades, there’s still something to be said for “working your way up the ladder.” 

Determine if accepting a job with low pay that exposes you to the experience you need to make your career dreams come true is a short-term pain that will result in long-term gain.

Play to the experience you do have

You may not have any experience with cars, but if you could sell Tupperware at home parties, you have a knack for sales. Similarly, you can use your top skills to sell yourself in particular jobs.

While sales has many facets, at the end of the day, the job’s main mission is to sell. The same goes for cooking staff in a kitchen. There are many responsibilities but the one that counts most is that they can cook.

The same concept can often be applied to jobs seeking a required degree as well. If a supervisor role with a construction company asks for a college diploma but you have been working in construction for decades, you likely have the skills and knowledge that company is looking for — even though you don’t have the qualifications on paper. Many skills in a job can be taught, but if you have the talent for the main goal of a particular job, you should definitely play to this skill set. 

Get in the door, even if it’s not necessarily what you want to do

If you lack the experience for the job you want, it may benefit you to apply for an entry-level position that can eventually lead to your dream career. This can be an entry-level job that is related to your chosen career. For example, if you want to manage a hotel, you may be able to work your way along this career path by starting with an entry-level job at a hotel, restaurant or event center.
Another option along the same lines is choosing a company that has a position in your chosen path. If you want to be a zookeeper, your best bet would be to take on a job at a zoo. Even if this first job is selling tickets at the front gate, it still puts you in the same orbit as current zookeepers and management that can put you in that position later. By putting yourself closer to your desired job or organization, you can increase your experience and chances of getting that job down the line.

Network

It’s no secret that sometimes it’s who you know rather than what you know. Reach out to your network and explain your situation. Be honest that, while you don’t necessarily have the experience, you have the passion and drive to get the job done. Your network can be as close as your family and immediate friends, but don’t forget about your expanded network of school friends, church members or old co-workers. Whether you have no job experience after college, or you are in your 30s with no job experience, you likely have a circle of friends and family that can help you find a job opportunity of some kind.

You can also grow your network by finding people closely related to the job industry. Visiting job fairs, networking mixers, or even your local recruiter will give you a friend in the job scene. They are more likely to be able to help translate any skills you do have or help you find opportunities, despite some missing experience.

Look for companies with paid training

Some companies are so desperate for workers they are willing to give you the experience you are looking for. Some industries will bring you onto their payroll and then send you straight to training. This can often be seen in the trucking, heavy equipment and warehousing industries. You can come on board with little or no experience and then be certified and paid — all on the company’s dime. This is one of the simplest ways to snag a warehouse job with no experience and is a particularly popular path to become a forklift operator.

This option, while amazing, is limited as there are very few industries offering such a great deal. That said, it is an opportunity that is worth being on the lookout for. You may even want to keep this option in your back pocket if you are currently employed. You can check in from time to time on the job market in your area in case any promotions like this pop-up.

Meet a Recruiter

Often, location plays a huge factor in the jobs available to you. If you are from a small town or rural area you may be wondering, “Where are jobs with no experience near me?” It can be tough to find zero-experience jobs in more remote areas of the country, but it’s not impossible. One of your best options here is to meet with your nearest staffing recruiter.

Having someone in your corner who can help you find opportunities is invaluable. Staffing agencieshave direct connections with companies throughout your area. This works to your advantage as a staffing agency is likely to sit down and get to know you, your goals and your experiences on a more personal level. After they understand what your needs are, they can match you with opportunities even if you don’t fit the “experience profile” perfectly.

A staffing company can recommend you for a position and use their good name and history to help you get your foot in the door at a new job. 

Nail the Interview

So, you got an interview, but now you are not sure how to explain you have no experience? You have to make up the lack of word count on your resume by making a great impression. Go into your interview with confidence and a plan. If the interviewees ask you about your lack of experience, be ready to sell them on you, despite your lacking resume. 

You may choose to tell them that while you don’t necessarily have the experience on paper, you have a knack for the main skillset of the job. You may instead say that what you lack in experience is made up for in passion and work ethic. You might even decide to say you are a quick learner and can gain the skills needed to perform the job easily. 

This argument may not win your interviewer over, but then again, you may strike a chord where you remind the interviewer of a younger version of themselves, or they may see the sincerity in your words and trust that over a resume. Again, this isn’t a sure way to snag the job, but it is another method to compensate for a less than desirable resume.

Having no experience makes it more difficult to find a job, but it is more than possible to find something as long as you can be patient and make a few sacrifices while you are starting out. In today’s economy, many employers have figured out that skills and a willingness to learn are more important than a degree or past job titles. There are plenty of options to help you get on the right track for finding your next position. Once you find that next job, you can build on your experience for the next position and the next.

Can child support take my whole paycheck?

Your child support deductions likely won’t be your whole paycheck but, depending on the support the courts are requiring you to pay, a large chunk can be subtracted from your paycheck.

A calculated monthly amount will first be deducted from your pay, along with other required items like state and federal taxes.

If you still owe any past due child support payments after these deductions are made, your check can have more money taken from it. According to federal law, a maximum of 65% of your remaining paycheck can be withheld for past due child support.

This is a huge amount of money to possibly be withheld. Luckily, some states have lower withholding percentages than the federal maximum.

While 65% is the highest amount that can be deducted, this percentage can be lower based on factors such as how far past due your arrears are and if you are financially supporting a second family.
The overall amount deducted from your paycheck will be determined after mandatory deductions such as your monthly child support and taxes.

So, for example, if your paycheck is $300.00 and $100.00 is taken from your paycheck for mandatory tax deductions, this leaves $200.00 in eligible income for your past due child support garnishments to be deducted from. If your situation requires you to pay the maximum 65% on this eligible $200.00, then your child support garnishment would be $130.00, leaving you with $70.00.

Keep in mind, this is just an example using the highest range of withholding percentages. Your circumstances may be much different, depending on how much you owe in past due support payments and if you are the breadwinner for a second family.

How do child support paycheck deductions work?

Child support payments can be deducted from your paycheck as a result of a court order. This occurs when the court considers you the “noncustodial parent” who is responsible for contributing to his or her child’s day-to-day financials, called the monthly support obligation.

As the noncustodial parent, this means you do not have primary custody of your child but still need to contribute to their food, clothing or educational needs.
Now, the amount you pay monthly in child support is determined by a judge and the factors that go into this decision are your wage, the other guardian’s wage and the financial needs of the child, such as tuition or medical insurance.

Your monthly child support payment is based on a set calculation made by your state. Each is different (and quite complex), but the usual considerations that make up your monthly support payments are your wage, the other guardian’s wage and the number of children being supported. Other factors a judge may take into consideration are the childrens’ financial needs.

Your employer will be notified of the amount you need to pay in child support and then this amount will be deducted from your paycheck and sent to the state to be distributed to your child.

Do past due child support payments come out of my paycheck?

When child support payments are missed, this is considered child support back pay, past due child support or arrearments. This is considered a debt and can be deducted from your wages. The deduction of past due child support from your paycheck is often called a garnishment.

You will be garnished for these past due amounts again if a court believes that this is the only way for you to pay or catch up on the balance. A garnishment is subtracted from your paycheck after your monthly child support amount is deducted.

Once more, the court will notify your employer of the garnishment, and from there, your company will deduct the proper amount and send it to the state to be paid to your child.
Another thing to keep in mind is that child support back pay accrues interest and this interest rate is set by your state. If you owe a lot of past due child support, the amount due to your child will be a bit higher than you anticipated because of this interest.

Am I required to pay child support through a paycheck deduction/garnishment?

Since this deduction from your wages is a court order you are required by law to have this money taken from your paycheck. This is often put in place to ensure that child support payments are guaranteed to be made and cannot be lost in the mail, shortchanged or generally forgotten.

If you don’t follow the child support order from the court, you can be punished by the court in a number of ways, including suspension of your driver license, passport denial, a tax return seizure, property liens or even jail time. Needless to say, it is best to make sure you pay your child support payments no matter how the money is distributed.

Can child support take half of my paycheck?

As we discussed previously, the amount that can be taken from your paycheck after your monthly child support balance can vary based on how much past due child support (arrears) you owe.

Federally, the limit that can be garnished from your paycheck for child support arrears is 50% to support a second family if you are less than 12 weeks in arrears on your child support payments.

If these circumstances don’t apply to you – for example, you are single or more than 12 weeks in arrears – then your withholding percentage will likely be higher. Again, though, there are some states with a lower minimum percentage.

One thing to keep in mind with all these large numbers rolling around is that these garnishments are only applied to your paycheck while you owe arrears.

Once your child support arrears have been paid in full, you will only have your monthly child support deductions taken from your paycheck. Your company must follow the court orders, so your employer has no say about when the arrears of your child support will be paid.

Can child support be more than my paycheck?

While, legally, your entire paycheck cannot be garnered, it can certainly feel that way. In situations where your paychecks are being garnished to the point that you are unable to maintain necessities such as rent or gas to drive to work, it may be time to request a review of your child support payments.

Courts take into account your child’s needs, but they also take your situation into account as well. If you can show a judge you are willing to pay or catch up on any owed arrears but need some leniency on the amount or frequency of payments, you may be able to have the amount of the garnishment or monthly support payments lowered.

Does child support come out of my paycheck before taxes?

Any monthly child support payments or garnishments will be deducted from your paycheck after taxes are taken out. This includes your federal and state taxes.

Other deductions you may see come out before your child support can include social security contributions, required retirement plans, medical insurance, disability insurance and union dues. These additional deductions will depend on your employer and state rulings.

How long does it take to garnish wages?

Once your employer receives the court order for your garnishment it must immediately begin the process of withholding from your checks. Many times these deductions will take effect on your next scheduled paycheck. The reason this process moves so quickly is that the court often requires your employer to confirm the garnishment has been processed.

Can I be fired if my employer receives a garnishment order?

You cannot be fired for having one garnishment order on your paycheck. This is a federal law that protects employees. However, if you have two or more garnishment orders on your paycheck, then your employer does have the right to end your employment with them.

There are some states that provide protections for employees with multiple garnishments and your company may not see a reason to let you go for having multiple garnishments.

Some companies, however, may consider this option if you work closely with the finances of the organization, seem distracted on the job from possible money concerns or if they feel the number of garnishment calculations is a burden.

If you feel that this could be a possibility, it may be beneficial to speak with your manager or HR representative at the company. Be honest with them about your garnishments and your desire to not only do well in your job but to use these garnishments as an opportunity to fulfill your financial obligations.

This open channel of communication can help your employer understand your need to keep your job and better understand your personal situation straight from you, not a court order.

What happens if my employer does not send in child support payments?

While your employer is responsible for sending your child support payments and garnishments to the state, you are ultimately responsible for making sure the payment makes it to your child.

While this is stressful, it’s important to know this responsibility. If your employer does not send the funds for some reason, you still need to pay the child support to keep from falling behind.

Sometimes, these missed payments by your company may be the result of office turnover or a clerical error. If you notice child support funds were taken but not paid to the state, be sure to immediately notify your company so they can send these funds over.

Normally notifying your employer will be enough to correct the issue but it is still important to retain copies of your pay stubs to show the child support deductions have been taken from your paycheck. This proves useful in the unfortunate event you have to take your employer to court for not passing along the deductions on a regular basis.

Child support as an independent contractor.

Being an independent contractor means you don’t have a payroll team processing your deductions for you. This doesn’t mean you are off the hook for paying any court-ordered child support.

In this case, you are now responsible for manually paying your child support. This requires you to send your payments each month to the state or guardian of your child. If you do not send your payments as required, you will likely face one of the many punishments that the court can hand down for child support cases.

So while being an independent contractor may mean more money or the ability to practice in your chosen profession, it also means you are responsible for maintaining any child support payments or garnishments on your own.

If this is your situation and you are not 100% sure about the process, it may be helpful to reach out to an attorney or financial consultant to help guide you in how the process, calculations and documentation works.

How does child support work if I live in a different state than my child?

When you do not work in the same state that your child lives in, your child support deductions will work in two ways.

Child support will be paid for as long – and for as much – as the state that gave you the court order requires. You will not, however, be garnished over the maximum percentage for the state you live in. It will only be deducted for your state’s required deductions.

So, for example, if you work in Idaho and your child support order comes from California, your paycheck will be deducted for the amount the California judge determines is your monthly payment. You will not, however, have to pay the mandatory deductions that California requires. Instead, you will pay for what Idaho requires, which are simply state and federal taxes. If you were also being garnished for child support arrears, you would only be garnished at Idaho’s rate rather than California’s.

Find your state’s child support information

If you would like to know more about your state’s child support withholding practices, such as specific garnishment percentages or mandatory deductions that will come out of a paycheck before child support, you can find that information here. If you have further questions about child support and how it affects you, be sure to check out our companion article, that discusses paying child support when you are unemployed.

This article is not intended to serve as legal advice. When considering your child support options, you should seek the advice of legal counsel.