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Machinist Resume Template

September 11, 2023 by bwadmin

Job Applicant Passing Her Documents

In the market for a new machinist role? Not sure where to start when it comes to your resume? This free resume template will help you get started with a breakdown of the core points to include on your updated resume.

Related Content: Browse Machinist Jobs

FREE Machinist Resume Template

[First Name] [Last Name]

Phone: [000-000-0000]

Email: [yourname@email.com]

[City, State, Zip]

Objective

Passionate and skilled Machinist with [X years] of experience in the manufacturing industry. Proven ability in operating and maintaining machine tools, interpreting blueprints, and ensuring product quality. Seeking a position at [Company Name] to leverage my skills and contribute to production efficiency.

Skills

  • CNC and manual machine operation
  • Capable of interpreting blueprints, shop drawings, or other production orders
  • Experienced with precision measurement tools (e.g., micrometers, calipers)
  • Machine maintenance & troubleshooting
  • Quality assurance & control
  • Tooling and fixture setup
  • Proficient with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks)

Experience

[Position 1 Name] 

[Company Name] – [Date] – [Date] 

  • Successfully operated CNC machines to produce 500+ precision parts weekly
  • Collaborated with the quality team to reduce defects by 20%
  • Regularly calibrated and adjusted tools ensuring consistent product output that met strict quality standards
  • Introduced a new technique for material handling that reduced waste by 10% and accelerated production times
  • Worked closely with the design team to translate CAD drawings into tangible parts, improving design feasibility by 30%

[Position 2 Name] 

[Company Name] – [Date] – [Date] 

  • Assisted senior machinists in tool setup and calibration
  • Participated in on-the-job training, mastering lathe and milling operations
  • Diligently followed safety procedures and protocols, achieving a record of zero workplace accidents during my tenure
  • Mastered the operation of both vertical and horizontal machining centers, enhancing the team’s production versatility
  • Assisted in troubleshooting and resolving machine malfunctions, decreasing average downtime by 2 hours per incident

Education

Diploma in Machining Technology
[Institution Name, City, State] | [Month Year – Month Year]

Certifications:

  • CNC Machinist Certification – [Issuing Institution]
  • Any other relevant certifications

Key Tips for a Machinist Resume:

  1. Customize for the Job: Always tailor your resume for each application. If the job description emphasizes specific skills or experiences, ensure they are evident in your resume.
  2. Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to highlight your accomplishments. For example, “Reduced machine downtime by 15%” is more impactful than “Improved machine efficiency.”
  3. Keep it Professional: Ensure your resume layout is clean, easy to read, and free of typos. Remember to use professional language throughout.
  4. Highlight Relevant Software Skills: Modern machinists often need to know specific software for CNC programming or CAD modeling. If you possess these skills, prominently display them.

 

Now Hiring: Your Next Job

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: Industrial, Manufacturing, News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers, manufacturing

Job Interview Tips to Make a Great Impression for Manufacturing Jobs

September 11, 2023 by bwadmin

two people shaking hands

Are you a naturally gifted orator, saying exactly what you intend in each interview, without needing time to think?

…don’t worry, almost nobody is!

Interviewing is an important and difficult skill to master, but a good interview can dictate your career path. Whether you’re interviewing in person, over video or on the phone you can make a great impression on the hiring manager.

Here are our interview tips to help you put your best foot forward when seeking manufacturing jobs.

Related Content: How to Find Manufacturing Jobs Online

1. Prep for the Interview

Before you even begin talking to interviewers, a little preparation is prudent. First, learn about the organizations to which you are interested in working with.

Second, plan your answers to common manufacturing interview questions. This is helpful to be at ease during the conversation, as well as remember all the key points you want to make about your skills, experience and work.

Finally, practice speaking out loud. Even the most casual interviews are still a formal assessment of you and your skills and so practicing what you want to say out loud is valuable to speaking in this setting. If you can, find someone to speak with so it feels closer to an interview.

2. Getting Ready for Each Type of Interview

Phone Interviews

These are usually the first meeting with a potential employer. While not usually an in-depth resume buster, the phone interview is a good assessment of how you may fit into the company culture and if your skills and experience match the position.

Historically, advice for a phone interview was to stick to more high-level responses. However, following COVID-19, the necessity of phone and video interviewing made the phone interview a much more in-depth process than before. So prepare for this interview type as you would a second interview to avoid a surprise question or two.

When taking a phone interview, avoid speakerphone to improve sound quality. Find a quiet room with minimal echo. If you’re using a smartphone, turn off all notifications and call-waiting so you won’t be interrupted during the interview.

Since a phone interview lacks the visual element of other types of interviews, it’s a good idea to record your practice interview with another person and then play it back – this will help you identify if you use too many filler words, pause awkwardly or have other easily-fixable speaking patterns.

Video Interviews

Video interviews have become increasingly common for manufacturing jobs. You should come to a video interview with the same attitude you would an in-person interview. However, there are a few extra steps you should take.

First, test your technology before the interview. Not only does this ensure your technology is in working order, but it can also help you identify any easily-fixable mistakes – such as an off-kilter webcam.

You should also take a moment to clear the space behind you – the more neutral and clutter-free, the better. Find the room with the most natural light possible or use a lamp to ensure the interviewer can see you clearly.

Second Phone Interview or In-Person Interview

The real opportunity to make a great impression is in this meeting, during the second interview or first in-person interview. Expect more in-depth, open ended questions meant to really learn about you and what you know, and what you can do.

Dress for the second interview in upscale casual, even if you will be in an industrial setting for the meeting or it is virtual. If the interview request includes language for a “working interview” that means you should bring necessary safety equipment, like steel toed or non-slip footwear, safety googles, ear and eye protection.

Group Interviews

This interview format can be a candidate group or a panel group.

In a candidate group, everyone is applying for the same job or project. Though this is an uncommon interview format for manufacturing jobs, it is important to stand out from the crowd, show leadership as well as teamwork and an application of your knowledge. It is difficult to not be intimidated by a candidate interview, but group project experience is similar.

A panel interview is a bit more common and means the candidate will be interviewed by a group of people. Most often a third interview, panel interviews are requested to provide more clarity on a candidate’s position and potential fit within an organization.

Making a great impression in an interview is imperative to getting the job offers you want and following the career path you have planned. Research the organizations, plan your answers, and practice speaking out loud.

How you are perceived in the interview process, is a combination of your experience and skills and how your personality will fit into the team. Use your time to talk about your successes and failures, and what you can add to the team.

Want more job searching tips? Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers, How To, interview tips

How to Become a Quality Assurance Engineer

August 16, 2023 by bwadmin

Two Men Holding White Paper inside a warehouse

Quality assurance (QA) is a cornerstone for manufacturing, ensuring that products meet the rigorous standards of excellence customers need and expect. 

A quality assurance engineer is at the heart of this process. If you have ever wondered about exploring this career path and what you might need to succeed in this role, you have come to the right place.

What is a Quality Assurance Engineer?

A quality assurance engineer  is a professional responsible for ensuring that products, processes and systems meet predetermined quality standards and specifications. Their primary goal is to identify and resolve potential problems or defects to enhance product reliability, safety and overall improve customer satisfaction. Some of the key responsibilities in this role include:

  • Quality Control and Inspection
  • Process Improvement
  • Documentation and Compliance
  • Problem-Solving
  • Quality Management Systems
  • Collaboration across Teams
  • Risk Assessment
  • Continuous Improvement

Educational Background and Skills

While specific requirements for a Quality Assurance Engineer may vary based on industry or employer preferences, the educational requirements below are commonly required.

Education

  1. Engineering Degree – A bachelor’s degree in engineering, be it mechanical, industrial, or chemical engineering.
    1. Related Disciplines – While an engineering degree is the most common, other fields such as quality engineering, manufacturing engineering, or industrial technology can provide the necessary knowledge for this role.

Soft Skills

In addition to formal education, the following skills are critical to success in any quality assurance engineering role, and are ones you should highlight on your resume.

  1. Attention to Detail – Focus and precision are key in assuring quality standards are met.
  2. Analytical Thinking – Analyzing complex data, identifying patterns and drawing meaningful conclusions.
  3. Problem-Solving Abilities – Investigating root causes of issues, developing effective solutions and implementing preventative measures.
  4. Strong Communication Skills – Collaborating with various teams across the organization.
  5. Technical Proficiency – Understanding of quality control tools and techniques, specialized equipment, testing methods and quality analysis software.
  6. Industry Knowledge – Familiarity with the processes, materials, and common issues of the industry you are entering is crucial.
  7. Continuous Learning – With the pace of industries and technology evolving, showing a dedication to continuous improvement is a must.

Gaining Experience and Finding a Role

While you may have some of the skills and knowledge outlined above, you may find you are lacking in some areas and in turn are having difficulty finding a quality assurance engineer role. 

There are multiple paths to becoming a quality assurance engineer, so you may want to consider either of the following options.

Related Content: 10 Questions to Ask an Engineering Recruiter

Internships and Co-op Programs

Gaining experience through a formal learning program is a great way to break into this field, but does require that this kind of program is available around you or that you can relocate for such a program. These programs can give you real-world exposure, hands-on learning, and help you with networking that will give you a leg up after completing the program when looking for your first quality assurance engineer role.

Entry-Level Positions

Starting in an entry-level position is a common way for many quality assurance engineer s to find their roles. You may want to explore roles such as QA Technician, Inspector, or Quality Control Assistant to help you develop the experience, knowledge, and skills needed to transition to your final goal of quality assurance engineer. 

At the end of the day there are multiple paths you can take to find the role for you, and whether you are looking on your own or with the help of a dedicated recruiting agency, following these steps can help you get the best position possible.

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers

Digital Upskilling Your Manufacturing Workforce

August 16, 2023 by bwadmin

Engineers in Workshop

There were a few major takeaways from workplace disruptions after 2020, but one thing became extremely clear: digital fluency is now top priority. Many organizations suddenly discovered that their staff wasn’t ready to switch to offsite work. 

In 2023, many organizations are still prioritizing digital adaptation. How can employers adapt to these new demands? Digital upskilling can help you get your employees ready for digital prioritization.  

What is Digital Upskilling?

Digital upskilling is a term meaning the rapid demand for proficient digital skills in the workforce. Employees that are embracing their own personal digital skills development have an advantage over those that have tried to remain in the status quo or worse, actively avoided upskilling. The same is true at an organizational level. Manufacturing has been working towards digital upskilling in safety, production systems and automation for years. However, not all organizations and employees are at the same level.

Digital upskilling is the practice of ensuring your employees’ digital fluency is at an appropriate level. It’s not about singling out specific employees – it’s about training your team together so that everyone has the same base level of comfort with technology.

Digital upskilling is different from traditional upskilling – instead of honing existing technical skills, digital upskilling is about improving overall digital literacy. For example, in traditional upskilling you might train an employee how to operate a new machine. In digital upskilling, you might train an employee on how to use contact management software.

How to Upskill Your Workforce

Small Steps

First, it’s not realistic to expect your entire team will learn at the same rate and in the same style. It’s important to break off learning into bite-sized chunks instead of overwhelming your employees. Learning within the teams has to be accessible, easy, and universal.

Smaller, shorter learning is much easier for all learning types and workloads across any team and will be more exciting for the entire workforce. Focus on one system at a time. Depending on what software, tools and machines you use, you can often find YouTube tutorials or other learning materials you can then share with your staff. Including hands-on demonstrations as well and encouraging your employees to practice when able will help them to really digest the new knowledge and make it their own.

Create a Support Network 

Prioritize employee development and reward tech-mentorship relationships within the workforce. This development structure places importance on growth while also boosting the morale of the teams. There should be a clear person(s) spearheading education so that employees know who they can go to with any questions.

This does require a bit more work upfront, because you’ll have to ensure whoever is spearheading education is familiar with the technology themselves before you spread the knowledge. In the end though, this saves a lot of time in the long run. It’s also important not to neglect upper management or CROs – they may not need to know all the ins-and-outs of every system, but digital upskilling flows both ways. Your entire organization will ultimately be stronger if everyone shares a base level of technological literacy.

Continuous Improvement  

Just as technology continues to grow and evolve, so too are learning and technology never-ending pursuits. Establishing a continuous improvement approach to digital upskilling of individual teams but also the organization’s larger objectives will make the steps manageable and easier to adapt to new tech as it changes, or as the goals do.  One easy way to achieve this is by designating a specific time for continuous learning and education each month.

The benefit of digital upskilling your entire organization is learning how to thrive in a digital manufacturing world and prepare for Industry 4.0 and other technological advancements. Employee engagement and morale are boosted when time is invested in their development, as well as saves time in the long run wasted on crash-course learning.  

Related Content: How to Maximize Employee Satisfaction to Increase Retention

Support Your Workforce

One barrier to digital upskilling is that it takes employees away from their current task. Building and sustaining the tech stack within your workforce is much easier when you have support for your workers. Bringing in temporary workers as support for current operations while employees are in training can keep things running smoothly.

Strom Minnesota is here to connect you with trained staff ready to meet new digital challenges and opportunities.

Looking to fill contract, temp, or ready-to-hire positions? Strom Minnesota can help. Using our database of thousands of skilled workers, we can match ideal employees for you – with 0 work on your end.

 

Build Your Workforce

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: Manufacturing, News Tagged With: For employers, industry 4.0, manufacturing

Machine Builder Job Posting Template

July 20, 2023 by bwadmin

Man Wearing Orange Hard Hat

When you are posting new Machine Builder roles our free job posting template can help you get started!

FREE Machine Builder Job Posting Template

Machine Builder Position– [INSERT LOCATION]

Hours: [INSERT HOURS]

Pay Range: [INSERT PAY RANGE]

Summary

[COMPANY NAME], a leading [YOUR INDUSTRY] company is looking for a talented and dedicated Machine Builder to join our team. As a Machine Builder, you will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art machinery and contribute to the development and production of our [YOUR PRODUCT]. If you posses a strong background in mechanical assembly, maintaining equipment, and a keen eye for detail we encourage you to apply. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Produce machined parts by operating a [MACHINE TYPE/NAME] that meet quality standards.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical issues, diagnose problems, and implement effective solutions to optimize machine performance.
  • Follow safety protocols and promote a safe work environment.
  • Maintain daily and weekly logs and documentation for quality and production.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to read and understand schematics, layouts, and blueprints.
  • Conduct regular tests and inspections to ensure machines are operating efficiently and adhering to both safety and quality guidelines.

Role Requirements

  • 2-year Vocational degree in machining field and/or equivalent experience and education.
  • A minimum of 2 years’ of proven experience in machine building or mechanical assembly in a manufacturing setting or an equivalent environment.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.
  • Familiar and proficient with precision measuring and inspection tools such as micrometers and calipers
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to follow instructions with a high degree of accuracy
  • Able to work collaboratively and independently
  • [GEOGRAPHIC REQUIREMENTS] Must be a US Citizen or authorized to work in USA

Join our team and be part of an exciting company that [YOUR VALUES]. As a machine builder you will be an integral part of our operations and success. 

 

How to Find Machine Builders

Looking to fill contract, temp, or ready-to-hire positions? Strom Minnesota can help. Using our database of thousands of skilled workers, we can match ideal employees for you – with 0 work on your end.

Build Your Workforce

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: finding candidates, For employers, hiring

Outdated Job-Hunting Tips You Should Ignore

July 20, 2023 by bwadmin

Retro TV set on metal damaged structure

Best practices for finding a new job change rapidly. However, the advice about hunting for a job seems to be the same dated suggestions you’ve heard for years. If you are considering exploring new opportunities, learn the latest trends for a successful job hunt and avoid these outdated tips:

A great resume (alone) equals a great job. 

Your resume has to be clear, thorough and concise, but it is only a small part of your overall job search strategy. You need to utilize other job-hunting techniques like networking, using a recruiter, and creating a LinkedIn account – that you actually fill out.

Related Content: How to Write an Effective Resume for Manufacturing Jobs

Skip Networking, it’s too awkward. 

Networking has a bad rep, but it can be much more natural than forced meetings and cold calls. Maintaining a network of people you admire professionally is much easier and more laid-back now with LinkedIn and other social media platforms. Tapping into a job recruiter can also help you build a network more easily.

Don’t even look at a position not in your primary education field.

Experience can be as valuable as education on your resume and hobbies or passions will keep you satisfied in your work. For example, experience in free form welding may be valuable in metal forming work because of the knowledge you gained in the position. If you find a job outside of your primary education field, it doesn’t hurt to apply – if your skills aren’t applicable to the position, an employer won’t reach out, but if you never apply you’ll never have the chance.

Send out as many applications as you can, you’re bound to find something. 

Often considered resume spamming, generic applications or resumes are often moved immediately to the no pile by recruiters or hiring managers. It is better to use your time crafting a personalized message for a position or company you are actually interested in. Take time to reach out to the hiring manager or do some research on their website to better understand not only the role, but the culture and environment you might be working in.

Make sure to end your resume with a call to action. 

Saying you’ll call at a specific day or time reads more like overconfidence or aggression than confidence. Signaling that you will be aggressive in the workplace isn’t a great first impression. Instead, allow companies to reach out to you or follow-up with an unscheduled email or phone call. 

Hard skills are the most important.

It is as important to have a degree or certificate as it is to be able to effectively lead a team or show you care about the work you are doing. Many companies need employees that can demonstrate people skills, not just execute tasks. Your hard skills, the can you do the work or not skills, are typically what get you in the door, but the interview process is often looking for those soft skills that are much harder to uncover in just a resume.

Don’t submit your resume for a job that isn’t posted yet. 

Candidate having an Interview

This is where your networking will pay off! If you hear about a great position that will be posted soon, go for it. You may get the opportunity to make a great impression ahead of the line. It’s also not a bad idea to share your resume or interest in working for a specific company even if they have no current openings. Working to maintain that relationship could pay off in the long run.

Fill your resume with the all the latest buzzwords. 

This usually shows you don’t know as much as you say. Phrases like “thinks outside the box” don’t have any direct correlation to work performance. Instead include specifics of your accomplishments that are more meaningful than buzzwords, with not only the what of your work but the results of your involvement. Think of including things like “Increased production by X% by improving Y process”.

Related Content: What NOT to Do on a Job Application

Just take the job with the highest pay. 

Studies consistently show that job satisfaction is more important than wage. While of course pay is important, you shouldn’t undervalue your work either, the company you are working for, the people you will be working with, and the long-term growth potential offered by the role are all very important factors to consider. 

Job recruiters are a dime a dozen. 

Use a recruiter that specializes in your area so you know that they understand not just the industry, but also the parameters and requirements of those positions. Strom Minnesota does just that, focusing on manufacturing, technical and engineering careers. 

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers, How To, interview tips

10 Essential Quality Assurance Manager Skills

June 15, 2023 by bwadmin

Female space operations engineer inspects rover components

Are you looking for a career in quality assurance? Or perhaps you’re already in the field and looking to upskill your abilities? Either way, it’s important to know the essential Quality Assurance (QA) Manager skills that employers are looking for in candidates.

What Does a Quality Assurance Manager Do?

Quality assurance plays a vital role in any business that produces goods or services. It ensures that products meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements, while also minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency. As a Quality Assurance Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring that your company’s products meet these standards, and that your team is equipped with the necessary skills to achieve success.

Related Content: Browse Open Quality Inspector/Quality Assurance Jobs

10 Essential Quality Assurance Manager Skills

1. Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential for any manager, and QA Managers are no exception. A QA Manager must be able to communicate effectively with their team, listen actively and provide clear instructions.

2. Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is another critical skill that every QA Manager must possess. QA Managers must be meticulous and detail-oriented to ensure that their team is following the proper procedures and that products meet company and industry standards.

3. Ability to Analyze Data

A QA Manager must be able to analyze data to make informed decisions. They must be able to understand and interpret data to identify potential issues, trends and process improvements. They should also be able to use data to drive process improvements and make data-driven decisions. They also need to be able to use data to track the performance of their team, to identify areas where the team is excelling and areas where they need to improve. 

4. Leadership Skills

Leadership skills are critical for a QA Manager to effectively manage their team. A QA Manager should be able to motivate and inspire their team to achieve their goals. They should be able to lead by example and set a high standard for quality.

5. Ability to Adapt and Innovate

Adaptability and innovation are essential for a QA Manager to navigate constantly changing environments. They should be able to adapt to new technologies, regulations and customer expectations.

6. Organizational Skills

Organizational skills are critical for QA Managers to manage their teams effectively. They should be able to manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, prioritize tasks and ensure that their team is meeting deadlines.

7. Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving skills are essential for a QA Manager to identify and address issues that may arise. They should be able to identify the root cause of a problem and work with their team to develop and implement solutions. They should be able to think creatively and outside the box to identify innovative solutions to complex problems.

8. Knowledge of Industry Standards and Regulations

A QA Manager must have a solid understanding of industry standards and regulations to ensure that their team is following the proper procedures and that products meet industry and regulatory requirements. They should be able to stay up-to-date with changes in regulations and standards and communicate those changes to their team.

9. Technical Skills

Specific technical skills are essential for a QA Manager. They should be able to understand the technical specifications of products and identify potential issues that may arise. Typically these include blueprint reading, hand gauge experience and knowledge of GD&T.

10. Time Management

Time management is essential for QA Managers, as they are responsible for managing complex projects with tight deadlines. This involves the ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources effectively and delegate tasks to team members. Quality assurance managers must also be able to manage their own time effectively in order to ensure that they are meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work.

A Quality Assurance Manager must possess a unique set of skills to manage their team effectively, ensure that products meet customer expectations, comply with industry regulations and meet company standards. 

Want more job searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers

How to Advance Your Manufacturing Career

June 15, 2023 by bwadmin

Moving up in your career can be both an exciting and stressful transition. Whether you’ve been in the industry for a while or just returning to the workforce, the manufacturing industry has opened up more opportunities for those looking to advance their career.

Now is the best time to advance your career – and your potential earnings. There are ways to do this without having to go back to college or get additional certifications. Read on to see how you can advance your career.

How To Advance Your Manufacturing Career

1. Advance Your Skills Online

Online education is one of the advantages of the new digital age. There is a plethora of educational assets that are available to you to help grow your skills and expand your knowledge base.

Staying aware of technological advancements will give you a leg up over other job applicants. For example, as the influence of data analytics becomes a major consideration in inventory management, data analysis skills will become important for those working inside the supply chain.

Utilizing online education is one of the best ways to stay on top of the manufacturing world.  Whether it’s being more efficient or learning more about the industry, it’s always better to develop a solid understanding before you start to apply for a new role.

➔ Read now: What is Advanced Manufacturing?

2. Build Your Resume

As much as technical skill is important, soft skills are also key. The term “soft skills” refers to traits like collaborative nature, strong communication skills, and dependability.

l skills are out of date, highlight some soft skills to illustrate your ability to learn quickly and how you could personally contribute to the company’s success. Mentioning a desire to learn new skills also communicates to employers that you’re looking to advance your career.

➔ Read now: How to Write an Effective Resume for Manufacturing Jobs

If some of your technical skills are out of date, highlight some soft skills to illustrate your ability to learn quickly and how you could personally contribute to the company’s success. Mentioning a desire to learn new skills also communicates to employers that you’re looking to advance your career.

3. Search on a Digital Job Board

Digital technology has come a long way, it’s now a more direct way to connect with employers through networking, job hunting, and even the application process.

You’ll have more luck using a service that specializes in manufacturing jobs rather than just a Google search. Strom Minnesota’s online job board features a wide range of temporary manufacturing jobs in your area.

Using a website like Strom Minnesota gives you more advantages over an aggregate site like Indeed. Indeed and other large sites pull in jobs across multiple industries, and their goal is to cast a wide net. By contrast, a staffing agency like Strom Minnesota has a more specific focus on certain industries, as well as direct relationships with hiring companies. This means you’ll get more attention when applying through Strom, versus applying through an aggregate site like Indeed.

Be sure to include your goals and experiences as your keywords while searching. As you narrow down your search, you’ll be able to maintain focus on your career goals and development. Keep seasonal manufacturing trends in mind and move with the demand.

➔ Read now: Check Our Job Listings

Advance Your Manufacturing Career with Strom

A knowledgeable manufacturing recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you take your career to the next level. Look for a job recruiter that specializes in your area of expertise. You can find job postings that are relevant to your experience, opening you up to a wider range of opportunities.

Larger websites aggregate data from across the nation and industries, while Strom focuses only on jobs within a certain area for particular positions. Strom Minnesota will provide you with highly skilled positions within the manufacturing industry that are right for you.

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings


Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Photo by Rafael Juárez on Unsplash

Filed Under: Manufacturing, News Tagged With: for job seekers, How To, manufacturing

What NOT To Do on a Job Application

May 22, 2023 by bwadmin

a desk with a computer, notepad, phone and coffee cup

When applying for a job, there are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when completing your job application. In most cases, employers require a job application along with your resume and cover letter. How your application is completed can have a significant impact on the screening process and if you are selected for a job interview. 

There is a lot of information out there on how to complete a job application and what information to provide, and in this article, we’ll cover what NOT to do. 

Related Content: Job Interview Tips to Make a Great Impression

What NOT To Do on a Job Application

1. List information that differs from your resume. 

When completing your job application, you want to ensure the information you share is accurate and aligned with your resume and cover letter. Double-check dates and any details, as any discrepancies could have potential employers questioning your credibility. 

2. List salary expectations that are not within industry standards or your experience. 

If the application you are completing requests that you list salary expectations or range, you may want to take some time to review current industry trends. You do not want your answer to be too high or too low. You also want to make sure that your listed salary requirements are realistic based on your job history and applicable experience. If you are uncomfortable listing an amount or even a range, you could also list negotiable. 

Related Content: How to Answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” Question

3. Leave any sections blank or uncompleted. 

An incomplete application could lead potential employers to think you are not serious about the position or committed enough for the role. It is best practice to take the time to fill out the application in its entirety and provide an explanation of any areas you may not have answers for.

4. Provide irrelevant information. 

Although you want to showcase your past experience and your professional abilities, you want to ensure that what you are sharing is relevant to the job you are applying for. Where possible, avoid listing old jobs or responsibilities that do not align with the position you are applying for. 

5. Forget to check for errors and typos. 

You can find yourself spending a lot of time completing your application and cover letter for a job opportunity. It can be tempting to hit that send button once you’ve filled in all the required fields, but you want to make sure you take time to go back and thoroughly review all information. A small typo or grammatical error could be enough reason for a potential employer to move forward with other applicants and disregard your application. 

6. List inaccurate or exaggerated information.

When completing an application and applying for a job, you want to promote yourself and demonstrate your capabilities. However, what you do not want to do is exaggerate your experience or share any inaccurate information about your education and employment history. 

By following these guidelines on what to avoid when applying for a job and completing your next application, you will be well on your way to landing your dream job. 

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers, How To

7 Red Flags in Job Postings to Watch Out For

May 22, 2023 by bwadmin

a stop sign

Applying for jobs online is an arduous, time-consuming process. Even more time-consuming is chasing down a job offer that ends up being nothing but a waste of time, effort or money. While you can’t always spot danger, recognizing these 7 red flags in a job posting will help you avoid trouble.

1. Vague Job Descriptions

Be wary of job postings that are unclear about the actual position itself. This can include contradictory language in the title itself – such as “Entry-Level IT Manager.” If the description of the job fails to lay out specific duties, this can also be a warning sign. Conversely, a job description that lays out a huge variety of duties could point to a company trying to hire a “multi-purpose” position. A short job posting isn’t automatically a red flag, as long as the information in the post explains what the position is clearly.

2. “Earning Potential” Instead of a Specific Salary

A job listing that doesn’t include a salary isn’t a red flag, but a posting that repeatedly states the job offers “unlimited earning potential” or that suggests that a low salary will be supplemented by bonuses is a massive red flag. Additionally, if you apply for a job and the hiring manager is cagey about answering direct salary questions, that’s a sign to walk away. If a job salary relies heavily on commission, be sure to ask the hiring manager how many employees currently receive commission and what the metrics are. If they can’t give you a straight answer, you should apply elsewhere.

3. Poor Grammar or Typos 

Another red flag you may discover during your job hunt is job postings with poorly written job descriptions or typos. Depending on the quality of the job posting and the listed information, grammatical errors or a typo can indicate a poorly written job posting or scam attempt. Use caution and thoroughly assess the content to determine the job posting’s legitimacy. 

Related Content: Job Interview Tips to Make a Great Impression

4. Job Requires Long Periods of Unpaid Training

This red flag usually comes up during the interview process, but some job listings will be upfront that the job requires unpaid training. It’s important to find out exactly how long the unpaid training is expected to last. Some unscrupulous companies will use unpaid training as a ruse for free labor. 

5. You’re Asked to Submit Sensitive Information

It’s standard for a job posting to ask for a name, contact information and resume. What’s not standard to ask for is sensitive information like a social security number or copy of driver’s license. You should be extremely suspicious of any job postings that want you to submit such sensitive information online during such an early stage of the hiring process. Never submit any personal information on a website that does not have SSL security – look for a lock in the URL bar.

6. No Qualifications Listed

Job postings that don’t include any specific qualifications can also be a red flag. No qualifications, no desired skills and no required education is all extremely suspicious. Even job postings for non-specialized positions will still list out requirements. If the job seems like it’s taking anyone who will apply, that can be a warning sign for a scam or multilevel marketing scheme.

Related Content: How to Find Manufacturing Jobs Online

7. No Mention of Benefits

Depending on the position you are applying for, this may or may not be a red flag. A part-time job, a contract position or an opening with a smaller company may not provide benefits. Know what you want in the job you are seeking. If you are applying for a full-time position where similar jobs do offer benefits, such as medical, retirement and paid time off, it could be a red flag if the job posting does not. Benefits are important to employees and are considered to be part of the compensation package; because of this, employers are sure to promote them to attract potential employees. 

When searching for a new job, you’ll need to use your best judgment and research each employer and job opportunity. Some red flags are more concerning than others and will be a sure tell sign of a scam, or misrepresented job, whereas others may just illustrate a poorly written job posting. 

Why a Job Recruiter Keeps You Safe

Working with an experienced recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you avoid a lot of these red flags. A recruiter will vet every single employer that uses their service, ensuring that you’re only applying to reputable businesses. 

 

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers

How to Create a Compelling Job Description

April 19, 2023 by bwadmin

Portrait of Businessman in Office

It’s no secret that hiring is an extremely competitive market right now. Employees have their pick of multiple jobs, and that process begins with browsing job postings – which means that job descriptions are more important than ever.

Related Content: How to Write Effective Job Postings

Creating a compelling job description is necessary to stand out in a competitive market, but it’s not an easy task.  Follow these tips for creating a compelling description that stands out in the sea of job postings.

Before You Write

Know Your Target Audience

Before you can actually write your compelling job description, you need to know exactly who you’re targeting. Have a picture in your mind of your ideal candidate. It doesn’t need to be specific to demographics, but think about some key differentiators that might impact how you write your job description:

  • Are you trying to attract a short-term contract employee or a direct hire?
  • Is the ideal candidate someone who has worked in the industry for 10+ years, or is that level of experience not necessary?
  • Is the ideal candidate someone who is good at following and completing set tasks, or is it someone who will need to identify tasks to be done?

A picture should start to form in your mind, and you should have this vision as a reference point while you’re writing your content. 

Know the Terms They Use to Search

Also known as keyword research, this is the practice of making sure that your job description includes the specific phrases that your ideal target actually uses when searching for jobs. Here’s an easy example: “CNC Machinist” vs “CNC Machine Operator.” Both are correct terms, but what is your audience more likely to search for?

You can uncover this insight by doing research online on places like LinkedIn and Indeed to see what type of language is used in posts that get the most engagement. Another reference point is an experienced manufacturing recruiter, who will be able to provide you with specific insight for terms to use.

Related Content: How to Find Qualified Manufacturing Employees

Components of a Compelling Job Description

Once you’ve identified your ideal candidate and the terms they use to search for jobs, it’s time to start writing the actual job description. There are a few key components that go into creating a compelling job description. These are in order of importance that you should write in.

Use Candidate-Focused Language and Flow

This is something that weaves throughout all of your written words, but it is something important to keep in mind. When writing job descriptions, many companies make the mistake of writing from a company perspective, not a candidate one. In other words, the job description focuses on what the company needs from the candidate – experience, skills, duties – and not what the candidate gets from your company. With a competitive job market, why should they choose your company? Keep your candidate front of mind while writing content and try and put yourself in their shoes. 

Clear Job Title

This is where the keyword research from earlier is going to be most relevant. Your job title should be clear and concise and use the same terms that your ideal candidate would. It’s tempting to want to stuff a lot of fluff into the title to try and make it more compelling, but this isn’t the place to do that: it should be succinct and descriptive. 

Provide Information on Company Culture

This feeds into the why of why a candidate should choose your company. Describing your company culture is critical for attracting talent and standing apart from dry, company-focused job descriptions. Some words you can use to describe your culture include:

  • Motivating
  •  Fast-paced
  •  Educational
  •  Inclusive
  •  Collaborative
  •  Autonomous
  •  Challenging
  •  Community involvement
  •  Growing
  •  Respectful
  •  Trusting
  •  Supportive

This information should be near the top of the job description since it’s something that your candidates are most interested in.

Include Salary Range and Benefits Information

Providing a salary range and benefits included are essential in a competitive job market. These are often the first things your ideal candidate will scan for, and they might not engage with your job posting at all if they don’t see any of that information available.

Include Key Responsibilities and Desired Qualities

Once you’ve covered the job title, company culture and salary/benefits it’s time to dig into the specifics of what duties will look like for the candidate. Start with the responsibilities they’ll be expected to take on. If you have any desired qualities for your candidate, this is the section where you want to include them.

List Required Qualifications

Finally, you can round out the job description with the required qualifications. When listing out qualifications, make sure to indicate which ones are 100% required and which ones are desired qualifications. This will help your candidates self-select when filling out the application.

Looking to fill contract, temp, or ready-to-hire positions? Strom Minnesota can help. Using our database of thousands of skilled workers, we can match ideal employees for you – with 0 work on your end.

 

Build Your Workforce

Filed Under: News Tagged With: finding candidates, For employers

10 Questions to Ask an Engineering Recruiter

April 19, 2023 by bwadmin

Two women talking together
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

Transparency between recruiters and candidates is an important factor for those who are looking to find an engineering job. There are often discrepancies that separate what the engineering recruiter thinks the candidate wants vs. what engineers actually want.

To make sure everyone is on the same page, here are 10 questions to ask a recruiter when talking about a potential engineering position.

Related Content: How to Find an Engineer Recruiter in Minneapolis

10 Questions to Ask an Engineering Recruiter

1. What are the make-or-break qualifications the employer is looking for?

There’s probably an endless string of qualifications that the employer is looking for. However, there are most likely 3 to 4 key requirements that are deal-breakers for the position. Putting these key requirements at the forefront will help gauge if the job is something for you. 

2. What are the daily duties?

Asking about the job description should be a no-brainer, but you should think more specifically if the day-to-day activities are something that you’d be willing to wake up and do every day. Think about what you are looking to achieve, and if this position will add or stagnate your skills. Go beyond the basic job description into the more routine – what is your typical day going to look like?

3. How many other candidates have been considered for this position?

Getting an idea of what your competition might look like is a smart move. A reputable engineering recruiter, like Strom Minnesota, will be working directly with the employer and have insight as to how many other candidates are currently interested in the job – as well as how many have completed the interview process without accepting the job. This can provide valuable insight for how competitive the job is, and how quickly you need to take action if you’re interested. 

4. How long has the engineering position been open?

Finding out how long the position has been open will help you determine if there is going to be a lot of “catch-up” work while the position was vacant. It will also allow you to ask follow-up questions during the interview process.

5. Why is this job open?

Asking questions about if there is a lot of turnovers in this position, if it was a promotion, what the tenure is like, etc. will help you figure out if the position is going to work well for you and what you are looking for. Your recruiter should be able to provide this information.

6. Where is the position located?

Having the location in mind, talk with your recruiter about if you are willing to relocate or want to stay in your area. This will help with transparency with what you are looking for in terms of location. 

Related Content: How to Write a Cover Letter for Engineering Jobs

7. What is the company culture like?

Providing information about what the culture in the office is like will help you to visualize what the job will be like. This will also give you more insight into how the employer values their engineers, which is important.

8. What is the compensation package?

Never be afraid to ask about the compensation for the position, because it’s a big factor, you need income to survive. In addition to salary, it’s important to ask about how benefits and PTO will be included, as these will help you determine your work and life balance.

9. What does the interview process look like?

All companies have a different interview process – some are extensive with tests, some aren’t. Asking questions about the interview process will help you in understanding the company and how the management team will be involved, giving you a better chance at success.

Related Content: How to Answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” Question

10. What do you know about the company?

If a recruiter has worked directly with the company, they’ll be able to tell you more beyond the information that you can find through your research. Going beyond the scope of company culture, requirements, and tools, you’ll be about to learn more about how things work internally.

Talking with a job recruiter shouldn’t be taken lightly, they will help you get more information on the positions that you’re looking for, based on your wants and needs.

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

 

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, engineering, for job seekers

How to Passively Search for Jobs

March 14, 2023 by bwadmin

man relaxing

If you’re satisfied with your current position but open to new possibilities, you don’t have to shout from the rooftops that you’re searching for a job and risk your current employment. An option is passive job searching – which has risen in popularity in the last few years.

Passive vs. Active Job Searching

Before we get into the tips: what is passive job searching?

Active job searching is what you typically think of when you think of someone looking for a job – they’re searching for jobs online, applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc.

A passive job seeker is someone who is already employed, but is open to a new opportunity. They’re likely not searching for jobs in the same way an active seeker is, but they’re also not likely to shut down possibilities.

How to Passively Search for Jobs

The best way to passively find jobs is to work with an experienced recruiter like Strom. When you become a part of Strom, we’ll do all of the job searching for you. Tell us what you’re looking for and what would make it worthwhile for you to leave your current position, and we’ll find you the best match. Since everything is handled internally, you also don’t have to worry about making it obvious on your LinkedIn that you’re looking for jobs, if you don’t want your current employer to know.

Another benefit of working with an engineering recruiter like Strom is that we specialize in IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. If that’s your niche, we can match you more quickly with a good fit.  Larger websites aggregate data from across the nation and industries, while Strom focuses only on jobs within a certain area for particular positions. Strom Minnesota will provide you with highly skilled positions within the manufacturing industry that are right for you.

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: for job seekers, How To

What are the Best Jobs for a Mechanical Engineer?

March 3, 2023 by bwadmin

Male mechanical engineer designs agricultural robots

A career in mechanical engineering is competitive and rewarding. Whether you are just graduating or further along your career path, specialization options are vast. Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest and most diverse of all the engineering fields, and now includes subdivisions of various disciplines.

So what are the best jobs for a mechanical engineer? Let’s break down some places to start answering that question.

Know Your Options

One of the benefits of mechanical engineering is how well it can translate into other positions. Of course, jobs labeled as “mechanical engineer” are always a good place to start, but there are other options available as well. Some careers that mechanical engineers can pursue include:

  • Aerospace engineer.
  • Automotive engineer.
  • Biomedical engineer.
  • Construction engineer.
  • Manufacturing engineer.
  • Management consultant.
  • Mechanical engineer.
  • Patent lawyer.
  • Production engineer.
  • Project lead.
  • Project manager.
  • Petroleum engineer.
  • Process engineer.
  • Product designer.
  • Quality engineer.
  • Sales engineer.
  • Structural engineer.
  • Technology specialist.
  • Thermal engineer.

Of the above, which job is “the best” is subjective. Which choice is right for you depends on your goals, interests and skills. 

There are a few ways to uncover the best job for you.

How to Choose a Mechanical Engineering Job

Gain Some Experience

One way to know what interests you is by trying it hands-on.

Most four year degrees require completion of a placement or at least provide some internship opportunities while you study. Internships are usually an entry-level type of position that is a few months in duration, and often unpaid. A placement is longer, about a year of paid or unpaid work. However, a placement is usually part or requirement of a degree path. 

If you did not complete either of these during your schooling, both are an excellent way to build experience to add to your resume.

Earn Mechanical Engineering Credentials

There are a few requirements for mechanical engineers as well as some nice-to-have certifications and associations. Depending on where you want to work, you will need a specialized license for your area. Registration with associated organizations is not always an explicit requirement but may give you a leg up as you are building your experience. Consider earning some additional certifications in specific skills to round out your resume as well.

Sketch Out Your Career Path

What specialty do you want to follow? To outline your professional career, ask yourself the following questions:

  • What type of organization do you want to work for?
  • Is relocation an option?
  • What are your skills?
  • What are your interest?

Determining what is most important to you will help narrow your focus in a broad field. For example, if salary is your primary driver mechanical engineers in technology industry make almost twice that of those in education. However, following salary requirements might mean relocation.

➔ Read Now: How to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Positions

Find The Right Position with an Engineering Recruiter

Now you know where and in what general fields you want to focus, finding the right position is key.

Strom Minnesota is a engineering recruiter that are experts at matching your skills and interests with the right organization. Relying on and utilizing the support of an experienced recruiter can get you onto your path faster. Using a specialized recruiter saves time and reduces stress that would have been incurred during a lengthy job search.

If you’re not sure which job is the best for you, we’ll sit down with you to discuss your job possibilities and help find you a position that matches your interest.

Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: applying for jobs, engineering, for job seekers, mechanical engineering

How to Find Maintenance Technician Jobs Online

January 25, 2023 by bwadmin

Professional crop black technician working with hardware

Looking for a maintenance technician job can be a daunting task, but with the right resources and approach, you can find a great opportunity quickly. One of the best ways to search for technical job is to first define your career path and then begin your research using online job search engines and platforms.

Read on for more tips on how to find manufacturing jobs online. 

How to Find Maintenance Technician Jobs Online

1. Check Out Company Websites

Many companies post job openings on their own websites, so it’s worth checking out the careers page of companies in your area to see if they have any maintenance technician job openings. Keep tabs on an organization you aspire to join. Knowledge of the organization will be helpful in interviews and in tailoring your resume to a position within that organization.

2. Join Groups and Organizations Related to Your Field

Joining groups and organizations related to your field can be a great way to stay informed about job openings and connect with other professionals in the industry. Professional groups can also provide learning and training opportunities on the latest in your field too.

3. Use a Specialized Recruiter

A job recruiter will help match you to open positions – but a specialized recruiter has more experience in a specific field. Strom provides staffing services for engineering, mechanical, maintenance, and manufacturing industries and positions. This means we have more experience in these fields and an established network of employers.

Connecting with people who already work in the technical field can give you a sense of what the job is like and help you find job openings. Networking helps maintain contact with those you enjoyed working with as well as respected organizations. This is something Strom provides as well.

Finding maintenance technician jobs online is easier when using a recruitment service like Strom who can provide a wide range of job openings in your specific niche. 

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Filed Under: Industrial, Manufacturing, News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers

How to Write an Effective Resume for Manufacturing Jobs

January 17, 2023 by bwadmin

a person typing on a computer

A hot job market can bring more job seekers in search of a new opportunity, adding to the competition in each industry. Weak resumes can eliminate even the most qualified candidates. 

Writing a resume for a manufacturing job is somewhat different than writing for other jobs. Here are some tips to help you write an effective resume that will help you stand out from other candidates and get the job you want in the manufacturing industry.

What is the Best Resume Format? 

There are many formats that are acceptable, and many tools to help create and organize an effective resume. For manufacturing, the reverse chronological format is best. Include your most recent experience at the top just below your objective statement. Use a clear, simple format and make sure to use headings, bullet points, and white space to make it easy to skim. If possible, keep your resume to 1 page. Most hiring managers don’t have time to read numerous pages for each potential candidate, and resumes that are too long, are often passed over. 

Some organizations use an ATS, or automated tracking system to sort and filter resumes. All applications must be compliant to be accepted. Compliance to ATS standards is simple: use only standard fonts (like Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri or Helvetica) and conventional section names (like “Professional Experience” or “Past Experience” instead of “Latest Jobs”). 

Make Your Resume Tailored to Each Job 

Tailor your resume to the job: Before you start writing your resume, read the job description and requirements for the manufacturing job you are applying for. Make sure that your resume highlights the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the job. 

Resume Sections

Manufacturing Resume Objective Summary

The objective summary is typically found at the top of the resume, and acts as a resume brief of professional history and goals. Do not skip the objective summary. This section is like a first impression in a concise 2-3 sentence statement and is extremely important to the job hunt and interview process. 

Experience in Manufacturing

Highlighting pertinent manufacturing experience is crucial.  Add the most relevant experience prominently on your resume. Include information about the types of manufacturing equipment you have worked with, your responsibilities, and any accomplishments you have achieved while working in the industry. This section won’t necessarily include education, certifications, or safety record. 

Tip: For a lengthy resume, eliminate work experience that is too old, or not needed to do the job you are looking for. A shorter, more tailored resume will get more reviews and net more interviews.  

Emphasize your safety record: Safety is a top priority in the manufacturing industry, so make sure to highlight your safety record on your resume. Include any safety certifications or training you have completed, as well as any safety-related accomplishments you have achieved. 

Professional Experience Section

Detail all certifications or training. Many manufacturing jobs require specific certifications or training, so make sure to all certifications or accreditations clearly and in chronological order. It is acceptable to include work experience in this section in lieu of more formal training. 

Professional Experience Section

Detail all certifications or training. Many manufacturing jobs require specific certifications or training, so make sure to all certifications or accreditations clearly and in chronological order. It is acceptable to include work experience in this section in lieu of more formal training. 

Proofread And/Or Have Someone Else Review

Before submitting any resume, make sure to proofread it carefully to catch any errors or typos. Review for accuracy of information and grammar. You can also have someone trusted review your resume – often a fresh pair of eyes will catch something you might’ve missed.

By following these tips, you can create a resume that effectively highlights your qualifications and experience in manufacturing and makes you stand out to potential employers. Strom Minnesota is here to help if you are looking for a new manufacturing position or need help with your resume. 

Want more job searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Filed Under: Manufacturing, News Tagged With: applying for jobs, for job seekers, How To, manufacturing, resume, resume building

Quality Inspector Resume Template

December 30, 2022 by bwadmin

 

Faceless professional repairer fixing video card in service centerAre you looking for a new quality inspector position? First, you’ll need an updated resume. But the process of creating a resume can be tedious, lengthy, and irritating. 

To make it easier, we’ve created a free resume template you can update with your information, and then copy + paste.

And then if you’re ready to start job hunting, check out our currently open quality inspector positions.

➔ Browse Quality Inspector Jobs

FREE Quality Inspector Resume Template

[First Name] [Last Name]

Phone: [000-000-0000]

Email: [yourname@email.com]

[City, State, Zip]

Professional Summary

A Quality Inspector with [insert years] of hands-on experience in all areas of Quality Control. Highly skilled, flexible, with experience in demanding work environments with tight deadlines and high levels of precision required. 

Qualifications

  • Ability to interpret blueprints, shop drawings, sketches or other production orders
  • Strong attention to quality and detail orientation
  • Mechanical capacity
  • Mathematical skills
  • Strong attention to quality and detail orientation
  • Ability to work independently, but with strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships
  • CMM Management
  • Proficient with GD&T
  • Computer experience

Work Experience

[Position 1 Name] 

[Company Name] – [Date] – [Date] 

  • Tested and inspected products at various stages of production processes in compliance with applicable company standards, customer specifications, and any applicable regulatory standards.
  • Determined test equipment settings according to the type of metal, thickness, and related variables using standard formulas.
  • Interpreted and evaluated test results against designated standards, utilizing knowledge of metals and testing experience in accordance with applicable codes, standards, specifications, or procedures.
  • Prepared reports outlining findings and conclusions.

[Position 2 Name] 

[Company Name] – [Date] – [Date] 

  • Approved or rejected raw materials with respect to quality standards and recorded supplier performance.
  • Used automated systems to perform complex testing procedures.
  • Maintained records of testing, information and various metrics such as number of defective products per day, etc.
  • Inspected procedures of the entire production cycle to ensure they were efficient and complied with safety standards.
  • Monitored the use of equipment to ensure it was safe and well-maintained and discard any that didn’t meet requirements.

Education and Training

[Degree Title] – [Date Received]

[University or High School Name] – [Location]

[Certification Title] – [Date Received]

[Certifier] – [Location]

Now Hiring: Your Next Job

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings

Filed Under: News Tagged With: for job seekers, quality inspector, resources, resume

Tips for Recruiting Manufacturing Workers

December 29, 2022 by bwadmin

White Jigsaw Puzzle Illustration

Recruiting manufacturing workers is more complex than simply advertising for a position online. The manufacturing industry is one that’s notoriously challenging to find qualified recruits. Before you begin searching for new candidates, keep these tips in mind to find the best job seekers.

1. Deepen Your Candidate Pool

When looking for new workers – particularly to fill highly-specialized positions – you need to cast a wider net. The Balance Careers suggests improving your candidate pool by:

  • Developing relationships with university placement offices and job recruiters.
  • Enabling current staff members to participate in industry professional associations and conferences where they can meet new candidates.
  • Watching online job boards for potential candidates who may have resumes online (even if they’re not job hunting at the moment).
  • Advertising in related industry/association websites and magazines.
  • Looking for potential employees on LinkedIn.
  • Encouraging your employees to refer colleagues to your company.

➔ Read Now: How to Find Qualified Manufacturing Employees

2. Promote Employee Referrals

When it comes to hiring, a lot of businesses overlook their current employees. If you have a manufacturing position opening up, it’s worth asking your current crew if they know anyone who would be a good fit. It can be as simple as sending an email to your staff with a link to the job posting.

➔ Read Now: How to Maximize Employee Satisfaction to Increase Retention

3. Communicate a Clear Why

Why should a job seeker come work for your company? The answer starts with a solid understanding of what your company stands for. While questions of salary and benefit are top of mind, job seekers also consider other factors when it comes to choosing a job. Be sure to communicate:

  • Your company’s values
  • Your company’s culture
  • Rewards and recognition beyond salary

Your answer to these questions is the why that will help a candidate decide if they want to work for you. Don’t feel like you have to wait until further in the hiring process to communicate this – including your company’s values right in your job posting can help you find job seekers who align with your business.

➔ Read Now: How to Write Effective Job Postings

4. Treat Candidates Like Customers

Treat your candidates like you would your customers. Let them know you’re just as excited to meet them as they are to be considered for the role. Your approach should be similar to how you meet with your customers:

  • Be respectful of their time
  • Be hospitable
  • Make yourself available

This approach leaves a favorable impression of your company in your candidate’s mind. It also improves your overall reputation – people in the same industry often talk to each other. Even if you don’t end up moving forward with a candidate, if you treat them with respect they may speak highly of your company to their network.

➔ Read Now: Tips for Hiring and Retaining Gen Z Employees 

5. Hire a Manufacturing Recruiter

Make the most of your time by working with an agent or employment service that specializes in manufacturing. Knowledge of the industry, language and job requirements are crucial in matching employee and employer effectively. However, general staffing agencies won’t have the experience to provide that level of specialized placement. Good recruiters will work with you to match your abilities and goals with continuous temporary work, freeing you up to craft your skillset, and your schedule, exactly the way you want.

Looking to fill contract, temp, or ready-to-hire positions? Strom Minnesota can help. Using our database of thousands of skilled workers, we can match ideal employees for you – with 0 work on your end.

Build Your Workforce

Filed Under: News Tagged With: finding candidates, For employers, manufacturing

CNC Machinist Job Posting Template

December 7, 2022 by bwadmin

Are you looking to fill CNC machinist positions? We’ve created a free template for you to use to maximize the quality of your candidates in an easy way.

 

FREE CNC Machinist Job Posting Template

CNC Machinist Position– [INSERT LOCATION]

Hours: [INSERT HOURS]

Pay Range: [INSERT PAY RANGE] 

[Insert Company Name] seeks a CNC machinist to aid our company in its mission to deliver custom parts of superior quality at outstanding prices. As one of our CNC machine operators, you will interpret client specifications, enter them into the CNC machine, set up the machine, and monitor it as it operates. You will also make critical contributions to our company’s reputation, ensuring the quality of our products by following inspection protocols and detecting errors before products are released. You will report to the plant manager and undergo training for specialized machines.

CNC Machinist Duties and Responsibilities

  • Determine the fixtures, attachments, and tools necessary to complete jobs according to specifications, and mount them to the machine prior to beginning cutting
  • Discuss project specifications with engineers and supervisors to guarantee consistency between plans and products, and collaborate to modify designs when existing ones are not feasible
  • Modify machine speed, tooling, and cutting style to ensure precision and accuracy of manufactured parts
  • Oversee the cutting process, adjust throughout each job, catch mistakes as they happen, and take necessary measures to eliminate errors
  • Supervise machine temperatures, ensure that the machine has an adequate warm-up and cool-down time between jobs, and replace coolant periodically
  • Review and interpret cutting plans, enter them into control outlets before jobs, and alter them to correct mistakes when necessary
  • Inspect all finished products for accuracy and uniformity to ensure product quality and uphold the company’s reputation
  • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance tasks to ensure machine longevity, including lubrication, cleaning, and tool replacement

CNC Machinist Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • At least one year of experience operating CNC machines
  • Comfortable using tools and maintaining machinery
  • Familiarity with programming and interpreting CNC software

 

How to Find CNC Machinist Workers

Looking to fill contract, temp, or ready-to-hire positions? Strom Minnesota can help. Using our database of thousands of skilled workers, we can match ideal employees for you – with 0 work on your end.

Build Your Workforce

Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-young-man-in-an-apron-and-safety-glasses-standing-by-a-cnc-machine-9242206/

Filed Under: News Tagged With: For employers, How To

How to Advance Your Manufacturing Career

December 7, 2022 by bwadmin

Moving up in your career can be both an exciting and stressful transition. Whether you’ve been in the industry for a while or just returning to the workforce, the manufacturing industry has opened up more opportunities for those looking to advance their career.

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) ran a survey and found that more than 4.6 million jobs have opened up and need to be filled by the year 2030. Making it one of the best times to capitalize and help up-and-coming manufacturing professionals learn how to advance their careers

How To Advance Your Manufacturing Career

1. Advance Your Skills Online

Online education is one of the advantages of the new digital age. There is a plethora of educational assets that are available to you to help grow your skills and expand your knowledge base.

In many cases, it’s necessary to be a perpetual learner to stay aware of technological advancements. For example, as the influence of data analytics becomes a major consideration in inventory management, data analysis skills will become important for those working inside the supply chain.

Utilizing online education is one of the best ways to stay on top of the manufacturing world.  Whether it’s being more efficient or learning more about the industry, it’s always better to develop a solid understanding before you start to apply for a new role.

➔ Read now: What is Advanced Manufacturing?

2. Build Your Resume

When was the last time you refreshed your resume? Take the time to review it for accuracy and add any new positions, but also to build it out.

As much as technical skill is important, soft skills are also key. The term “soft skills” refers to traits like collaborative nature, strong communication skills, and dependability.

If some of your technical skills are out of date, highlight some soft skills to illustrate your ability to learn quickly and how you could personally contribute to the company’s success. Mentioning a desire to learn new skills also communicates to employers that you’re looking to advance your career.

➔ Read now: How to Write an Effective Resume for Manufacturing Jobs

3. Search on a Digital Job Board

Digital technology has come a long way, it’s now a more direct way to connect with employers through networking, job hunting, and even the application process.

You’ll have more luck using a service that specializes in manufacturing jobs rather than just a Google search. Strom Minnesota’s online job board features a wide range of temporary manufacturing jobs in your area.

Using a website like Strom Minnesota gives you more advantages over an aggregate site like Indeed. Indeed and other large sites pull in jobs across multiple industries, and their goal is to cast a wide net. By contrast, a staffing agency like Strom Minnesota has a more specific focus on certain industries, as well as direct relationships with hiring companies. This means you’ll get more attention when applying through Strom, versus applying through an aggregate site like Indeed.

Be sure to include your goals and experiences as your keywords while searching. As you narrow down your search, you’ll be able to maintain focus on your career goals and development. Keep seasonal manufacturing trends in mind and move with the demand.

Advance Your Manufacturing Career with Strom

A knowledgeable manufacturing recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you take your career to the next level. Look for a job recruiter that specializes in your area of expertise. You can find job postings that are relevant to your experience, opening you up to a wider range of opportunities.

Larger websites aggregate data from across the nation and industries, while Strom focuses only on jobs within a certain area for particular positions. Strom Minnesota will provide you with highly skilled positions within the manufacturing industry that are right for you.

Want more job-searching tips? Working with an experienced engineering recruiter like Strom Minnesota can help you prepare for any job interview and take the hard work out of finding positions. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet for job postings or waste time applying with multiple individual employers. Strom Minnesota takes all the hard work out of the job search, so you can find a new position faster.

Check Our Job Listings


Strom Minnesota is an engineering and technical recruitment agency that specializes in high-skilled job candidates for highly technical positions. We facilitate contract employment, project staffing, temp-to-perm and direct hire opportunities. Industries served include IT, engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and manufacturing. We are affiliated with Strom Engineering, a national staffing and recruitment agency.

Photo by Rafael Juárez on Unsplash

Filed Under: Manufacturing, News Tagged With: for job seekers, How To, manufacturing

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