What is a Production Worker?

In brief

Are you a go-getter who can't sit still? Then a job as a production worker may be just what you are looking for. In this role, you'll work on making, processing or packaging products. From chip bag to machine part - nothing comes off the line without production workers.

On this page you can read everything you need to know about the job of a production worker: the work, working hours, training, salary and future opportunities. So you'll know right away if this is the job for you.

What does a production worker do?

A production worker supports and performs tasks within the production process. Exactly what that entails depends on the company and industry in which you work. Common tasks include:

Set up, operate and control machines
Packing or packaging products
Perform quality checks
Preparing orders and replenishing stock
Working on the assembly line
Keeping the workplace clean and safe

In short: you make sure the production process runs smoothly.

What skills do you need?

You don't need a long list of degrees to get started as a production worker.
More important are your characteristics:

You work accurately and securely

You can work independently, but also collaborate well

You remain calm and structured, even when it's busy

You take responsibility for your work and your team

You are physically fit and like to work hard

What does a workday look like?

Every day can look different. Sometimes you stand behind a machine, sometimes you do checks or help pack products. One thing is certain: you always work in a team. Fun, but also important because together you are responsible for making sure that production runs smoothly.

Many factories operate 24/7, which means you often work shifts. Day, evening or night shifts alternate. This requires flexibility, but also provides extra shift bonuses.

Training and advancement opportunities

For most production worker vacancies, you don't need a degree. Often you just learn the trade on the shop floor from your colleagues. Still, there are MBO courses you can take, such as:

Metalworking assistant
Assistant operator production technology
Mechanical operator
Process operator A
Production worker fresh industry

In addition, many employers offer in-house training and courses, for example on safety or machine operation. This allows you to advance to positions such as operator or team leader.

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Your next step?

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Stap 1: Solliciteren

Yes, je sollicitatie is binnen! We nemen snel contact met je op, per telefoon of mail.

STEP 2: Introduction

We plannen een kennismaking via Teams of bij ons op kantoor en leren elkaar beter kennen.

STAP 3: De Juiste match

We zoeken uit welke baan echt bij jou past en bespreken de mogelijkheden samen.

STEP 4: Getting to know company

Once excited, you go for an interview with the employer to see if it's a complete fit.

STEP 5: First day of work

Both enthusiastic? Then we will sign the contract and you will start at your new job!

STAP 6: Wij staan voor je klaar

Ook zodra je bent gestart bij je nieuwe baan, blijven we betrokken. Heb je vragen of loop je ergens tegenaan? Je kunt altijd bij ons terecht.

Frequently asked questions in production

Is it hard work to be a production worker?

The work can be physically demanding because you do a lot of standing, lifting or moving. But you build fitness and strength. Plus, you often work in a team, allowing you to share tasks.

Do I need to speak Dutch to do this work?

Not always. Many companies have international teams and work with clear instructions. Basic Dutch or English is often enough.

Can I advance from this position?

Yes. Many production workers advance to operator, foreman or team leader. Internal training or MBO courses will increase your opportunities even more.

What kind of contract do I usually get as a production worker?

You often start through a temp contract, so you can start quickly. Do both sides like it? Then you can often eventually get a permanent contract with the company itself.

What industries can I work in as a production worker?

Opportunities are wide: from food and packaging to metalworking, chemical and engineering. At Job Invest, we work with top employers in virtually all industries.