How to Get a Job as a Factory Manager

Even the smallest factory needs a manager that has all the skills necessary to make sure the facility operates smoothly. If you work in a factory, with experience, you can advance up to the position of factory manager. You do have to demonstrate leadership skills and practical knowledge of all aspects of the work. Although you may not know the specifics of how to perform every job, you need to know enough about each one to determine whether the process is working as it should or if there is a problem that needs to be resolved. A small hitch in one area of development or manufacturing can result in downtime for all the parts of the factory that depend on that area.

In the job of factory manager, you will be responsible for planning and directing the activities of all the supervisors of the various departments. Although you may have a secretary to help you with the scheduling, you will have to approve the schedule and any changes. Knowledge of the proper use and safety measures of all the equipment in the factory is important to ensure the finished product is not defective and to protect yourself and the rest of the staff from harm. You will have to work independently and exercise decision making on a daily basis. You must also make sure that the work done in the factory conforms to state and federal laws and codes.

The factory manage oversees the ordering and restocking of supplies and raw materials, maintaining inventory levels and maintain appropriate records of these supplies. You will responsible for assigning duties and scheduling work, especially if the factory has shift work. In a small factory, you may also have to serve in the capacity of human resources officer in the hiring and dismissing of employees. Even in a large factory setting, you will serve in this capacity by making recommendations for promotions for employees who have achieved performance and experience levels that allow them to advance in their jobs.



You will have to deal with a lot of paperwork in your job as factory manager in preparing shipping orders and the billing documents for the products. Consultation with supervisors about ways to improve the efficiency of the equipment in the factory is a responsibility you will also have to take on. When equipment breaks down, you may have to hire contractors to do the work, which means you need to be knowledgeable about contracts and negotiating prices.

The skills you need to obtain the position of factory manager are mainly learned through experience on the job. You will need to have comprehensive knowledge of all the equipment in the factory and of the possible hazards that are present in such a setting. Planning and organization skills are essential for the many tasks you will have to perform. Good communication and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to multi-task is essential in the job. Arranging for or delivering training to new employees is another task that you have to which you have to attend in addition to the supervision and evaluation of staff.