Factories primarily function as the heart of the manufacturing process. They are physical spaces where raw materials are transformed into finished goods or products. These goods can range from everyday items like food and clothing, to more complex products such as electronics and vehicles.
Every factory operates differently, but they do have some commonalities:
- Shift work is common – many factories operate 24/7, so they need people working at all times of the day and night.
- Safety is key – much of the work is physical and there are lots of moving parts and heavy machinery involved, so staying safe is important.
- They’re found everywhere – including in regional and rural areas. The types of things a factory produces will vary depending on where it’s located.
Transform materials into consumable goods
Factories contribute significantly to society by facilitating mass production, fostering economic growth, and creating employment opportunities.
Key Tasks
- Operating machinery to produce goods
- Monitoring production processes for quality control
- Maintaining and repairing equipment
- Managing inventory and supply chains
- Ensuring workplace safety and adherence to regulations
- Inspecting finished products to ensure they meet specifications
- Packaging and preparing goods for shipment
- Assisting in the design and improvement of production processes
You can find factories in the manufacturing industry
Factories are generally found in the manufacturing industry. Factories exist to produce almost anything imaginable, including cars, food, clothes and textiles, electronics, pharmaceuticals, furniture, and more.
You can expect regular hours and on-site work
Regular hours | Work on-site | Jobs in all areas | Moderate job growth
Factory operating hours can vary significantly depending on the type of product being made, the specific company, and the nature of the work being done. Many factories operate around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, often in shifts to ensure continuous production. However, there are some factories that operate on a more traditional business schedule too.
On-site work is significantly more common in factories. This is primarily due to the nature of the tasks involved, which often require direct interaction with machinery, equipment, and other physical resources. However, certain roles in management, administration, or planning may have the flexibility to work remotely.
Factories can be found in all rural, regional, and metropolitan areas.
The Career Clusters you’ll find in a factory
People from all Clusters are needed for a factory to run successfully, but Makers are typically the most common Cluster. In many roles, you might find yourself performing tasks across multiple Clusters.
