Do you have strong organizational skills and a keen eye for detail?
If so, and you are looking for an entry-level role in manufacturing, consider becoming a production sorter. This role generally involves working in a factory or warehouse and sorting products.
You are likely to be charged with categorizing, organizing, and separating different products and materials. If you excel in this role, you will have the chance to advance to a more senior position.
To find out if this role is right for you, check out my in-depth…
Production Sorter Job Description
The job description should provide an overview of the company you would be working for. This is likely to include details of the size of the company and the team that you would work with. There should be details of the type of contract that is being offered as well as the base salary.
The main duties and responsibilities of this role should be clearly outlined. There should be details of the education, experience, and other attributes that candidates need to have. If specialist skills are required, they should also be outlined in the job description.
Duties And Responsibilities
The specific tasks you are assigned will depend on the company you work for and your experience. However, particular tasks are typical of this role. So, here are the main duties as well as the responsibilities you are likely to have to complete regularly.
Reading Work Orders
You need to read work orders to figure out the items you need to pack. Find the products within the storage area of the factory or warehouse. You also need to compare the work order information with batch and item numbers and choose the correct items.
Transporting Items
You will have to transport or move the items to the packaging area. Once there, you will help the loaders to load and stack products safely on delivery vehicles.
Checking for Damage
You need to make sure the products are free from damage. If you notice any damage, you must report it to your supervisor. You will then replace the item and repack the new item.
Labeling and Packing
You need to make sure that all products are correctly labeled, following the set instructions and standards. This includes information like the expiry date, price, and address. You need to pack the items in cartons or crates while following the set procedures and protocols.
Receiving Shipments
You will be responsible for receiving shipments and comparing them to the delivering documents. Separate and batch products of the same type and arrange them for storage. If any products are due to expire soon, you need to report them to your supervisor.
Cleaning
You need to make sure the production area is clean and sanitized at the end of your shift. It is essential to make sure that the floor is clean and dry at all times. Any spills that occur need to be cleaned up immediately to maintain safety.
Skills And Attributes
Most of the skills you need to work as a production sorter can be learned while you are actually doing it. However, certain soft skills will help you complete your tasks more effectively. To be successful in this role, you should have the following skills and attributes.
Physical fitness
You need to be reasonably strong and physically fit to do this job. Spending many hours at a time standing and walking to different areas of the facility. You will also spend a lot of time lifting heavy boxes as well as pulling and pushing items.
Organization skills
It is important to keep different orders separate and perfectly stacked. You need to make sure that the correct items are packed. Failing to do this will waste time and cost your employer money.
Technical skills
You will often be charged with operating special machinery and equipment. And need to do this safely and skillfully.
Problem-solving
When issues arise, you need to find ways of solving them as quickly as possible. This may involve thinking outside the box to come up with creative solutions. It is important to be able to remain calm under pressure to focus on the issue.
Teamwork
It is important to be able to work closely with your colleagues and trust each other. Arguments can result in mistakes and lost time. You should be able to resolve any conflicts that arise quickly and smoothly.
Active listening
You need to listen closely to the instructions your supervisors give you during your shift. Understand the instructions and follow them to the letter.
Efficiency
You need to be able to work quickly and accurately. Prioritize tasks to make sure that everything is completed on time.
Education And Training
This entry-level job is usually open to people who hold a high school diploma or a GED. If you are planning to advance on your career path, it is a good idea to obtain an associate’s degree. An Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Technology or Associate of Applied Science in Machining and Product Development is useful.
Training
You will usually be provided with paid training when you start a job as a production sorter. This will help you learn about your duties and safety procedures, like how to operate machines safely. In some cases, you may need to complete a special training program before you start work.
Certification
Gaining certification will help you take your career to the next level. In many cases, you can study for certification in your spare time. Once you have gained the certification, you could gain a higher salary or an advanced position. You must renew most certifications each year, and some require additional coursework.
Certified IPC Specialist
This certification is issued by the Institute of Printed Circuits and shows you understand electronics criteria. The coursework includes units in soldering, terminal connections, and hardware installation.
Certified Automation Professional
You can gain this certification through the International Society of Automation to show you understand controls and automation. You will learn about automated system design, deployment, development, operation, and maintenance.
The Working Environment
This job comes with both full-time and part-time hours. You will work a range of different shift patterns, including nights, weekends, and during public holidays. During peak manufacturing periods, you are likely to be offered overtime hours.
This is a physically demanding job, and you are likely to spend most of your shift time on your feet. The environment can be noisy and dangerous, and you need to be vigilant at all times. You will have to wear protective clothing and accessories such as gloves and safety glasses.
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Final Thoughts
The salary for this job will depend on your skill and experience. Entry-level employees often start with part-time shifts. The typical starting salary can be as low as $7.50 per hour.
After you have gained a little work experience, you are likely to earn around $13 per hour. Gaining special certification can considerably boost your earning potential. The top production sorters can earn up to $21 per hour.
All the very best working as a Production Sorter!
