How to Be Manufacturing Technologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 18, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Manufacturing technology plays an essential role in the production of goods, as it provides the necessary processes, tools, and machines to turn raw materials into finished products. This technology helps increase the speed and efficiency of production, leading to faster delivery times and higher quality products. In addition, it reduces waste and costs associated with production, allowing companies to remain competitive in their respective markets.

Furthermore, manufacturing technology also enhances safety in the workplace by providing protective systems, such as automated shut-off valves and sensors, helping to minimize the risks of injury. the advancements in manufacturing technology have allowed companies to remain competitive in an ever-changing market and continue to provide consumers with quality products.

Steps How to Become

Get a High School Diploma or GED. The first step to becoming a manufacturing technologist is to get a high school diploma or GED. This will provide you with the basic academic foundation needed to pursue further education in the field.
Earn an Associate Degree. The next step is to earn an associate degree in manufacturing technology or a related field. Coursework may include topics such as engineering technology, quality assurance, and industrial safety.
Get Professional Certification. While not required, obtaining professional certification from an accredited organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) may help you stand out in the job market.
Find an Entry-Level Position. After completing your education and/or certification, you can begin looking for an entry-level manufacturing technologist position. Many companies prefer to hire those with experience, so keep an eye out for internships or apprenticeships that can give you the necessary on-the-job training.
Advance Your Career. As you gain experience, you may be able to move up to more senior positions within the industry. You can also pursue further education such as a bachelors degree in manufacturing technology or related field to increase your knowledge and skillset.

Manufacturing technologists require a combination of technical and engineering knowledge, as well as an understanding of operational processes, to become skilled and competent. The first step is to obtain a relevant degree in engineering or technology, or a related field. This can provide the base knowledge needed to understand the complexities and nuances of the manufacturing process.

With this knowledge, technologists should gain hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, learning from experienced staff and honing their skills in the process. To stay up to date, technologists should also attend conferences and seminars, read industry journals and magazines, and participate in networking opportunities. By actively engaging in the manufacturing community, technologists can gain insight into current trends and innovations, allowing them to stay ahead of the curve and remain competent professionals.

You may want to check Sonography Technologist, Clinical Lab Technologist, and Nuclear Technologist for alternative.

Job Description

Quality Control Technician: Responsible for ensuring the quality of products manufactured by the company, conducting inspections and tests, documenting results, and recommending corrective action when needed.
Design Engineer: Develops product designs and technical specifications to meet customer requirements. Responsible for analyzing customer needs to create innovative solutions.
Process Engineer: Develops and implements processes and procedures to increase efficiency and productivity of the manufacturing process.
Tooling Engineer: Designs and develops tools, dies, and fixtures used in the manufacturing process.
Production Planner: Responsible for creating production schedules to meet customer demand and maintain inventory levels.
Maintenance Technician: Performs preventative maintenance, repairs, and troubleshoots complex machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing process.
Production Supervisor: Oversees all aspects of the production process, including quality control, safety, and employee training.
Supply Chain Manager: Responsible for managing the flow of materials and components from suppliers to the manufacturing facility.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of industry best practices and standards related to manufacturing
Understanding of production processes and quality control procedures
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
Proficiency in the use of measurement tools and instrumentation
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose machine malfunctions
Knowledge of safety regulations and guidelines
Effective communication skills to interact with various stakeholders
Excellent problem-solving skills
Proficiency in the use of computer aided design (CAD) software
Knowledge of advanced manufacturing technology, such as robotics and automation

Having good problem solving skills is essential for a Manufacturing Technologist. By being able to quickly identify and solve manufacturing problems, production can be made more efficient and cost-effective. This includes having an understanding of materials, processes, and technology.

It also requires the ability to think critically and analyze data in order to develop strategies that will reduce waste and improve production quality. Furthermore, having strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with other departments is critical for success, as Manufacturing Technologists often have to provide technical assistance and problem-solve with other departments. With these skills, a Manufacturing Technologist will be able to make a real difference in the success of a company.

Quality Assurance Technologist, Mechanical Technologist, and Computer Technologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How do you stay up to date with the latest manufacturing technologies?
What experience do you have working with automated production equipment?
Describe a project you worked on that involved significant troubleshooting of manufacturing processes.
What strategies do you use to optimize production efficiency?
How do you manage multiple projects and prioritize tasks?
What types of safety protocols have you implemented in your previous roles?
How do you ensure accuracy and quality in the products you produce?
What processes do you use to test and evaluate new technologies?
Describe a time when you had to quickly adapt to a new manufacturing process.
How do you motivate team members to achieve the best results?

Common Tools in Industry

CNC Machines. Computerized numerical control machines used to create precision parts with high accuracy and repeatability. (eg: CNC lathe)
Robotics. Automated machines that can be programmed to carry out specific tasks. (eg: robotic arm)
3D Printing. A process of creating three-dimensional objects from digital models. (eg: Fused Deposition Modeling)
Laser Cutting. A method of cutting materials using a focused beam of light. (eg: CO2 laser cutter)
CAD/CAM Software. Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing software used for creating digital models for production. (eg: Solidworks)
Quality Control Equipment. Testing and inspection equipment used to ensure that products meet the required specifications. (eg: X-ray inspection machine)
Automation Systems. Automated systems used to improve efficiency and reduce costs. (eg: Programmable Logic Controllers)
Welding Equipment. Equipment used to join two or more pieces of metal together through the application of heat and/or pressure. (eg: MIG welding gun)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
International Association for Automation and Robotics in Construction (IAARC)
International Federation of Robotics (IFR)
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
Robotics Industries Association (RIA)
Automation and Robotics Manufacturing Association (ARMA)
International Society of Automation (ISA)
Association of Manufacturing Technology (AMT)
The Open Group Manufacturing Industry Working Group (OMIWG)

We also have Safety Technologist, Mining Technologist, and Aerospace Technologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Quality Control. The process of ensuring that products or services meet established standards of quality.
Process Engineering. The application of engineering principles and techniques to the design, development, and implementation of processes, systems, and equipment.
Lean Manufacturing. A production strategy focused on eliminating waste, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs.
Automation. The use of technology to automate processes, such as assembly lines, production lines, and other tasks.
CAD/CAM. Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing, which is the use of computer systems to design and manufacture products and components.
Six Sigma. A set of strategies and techniques for improving processes by reducing defects and variations in products or services.
Manufacturing Metrics. A set of measurements used to evaluate the performance of a manufacturing process or system.
Supply Chain Management. The management of the flow of goods and services from the supplier to the end user.
Cost Analysis. A method used to calculate the costs associated with producing a product or providing a service.
Quality Assurance. The process of ensuring that products meet established standards of quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Manufacturing Technologist?

A Manufacturing Technologist is a professional who specializes in the application of engineering principles and technology to the production of goods and services.

What qualifications are needed to become a Manufacturing Technologist?

To become a Manufacturing Technologist, you will need a Bachelor's degree in engineering, manufacturing or a related field. You may also need experience in the production process, such as in a manufacturing or engineering setting.

What are some of the duties of a Manufacturing Technologist?

Some of the duties of a Manufacturing Technologist include designing, testing and maintaining manufacturing systems and processes; researching and developing new products and processes; optimizing operational efficiencies; managing materials, quality and safety; and providing technical support to production teams.