Potential earnings
£50,819.73
Planning, process and production technicians perform a variety of technical support functions to assist production, process and planning engineers with production programmes and schedules and with manufacturing and processing procedures in order to ensure accuracy, cost-effectiveness and efficiency
Main tasks
- Plans the cost impact and staff resources for projects.
- Reviews and analyses production data.
- Ensures effective completion and implementation of detailed instructions on processes, work methods and quality and safety standards for workers.
- Ensures accuracy of manufacturing and testing equipment.
- Plans and coordinates maintenance activities involved in manufacturing and processing procedures.
- Ensures implementation of inspection, testing and evaluation methods for bought-in materials, components, semi-finished and finished products.
- Supports implementation of plans of sequence of operations and completion dates for each phase of production or processing.
- Supports professional engineers in reviewing safety, quality, accuracy, reliability and contractual requirements.
- Liaises with materials buying, storing and controlling departments to ensure a steady flow of supplies.
- Works with engineers on production control methods to monitor operational efficiency and helps to eliminate potential hazards and bottlenecks in production.
- Works from, and helps implement, professional engineers’ drawings and specifications for equipment and layout, and helps implement modifications required for existing plant machinery/layout.
- Supports planning and production engineers in assessing existing and alternative production methods.
Source: Office for National Statistics.
Salary and earnings
Average earnings
£32,073.91
Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).
Skills & knowledge
The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
What course level do I need to study?
The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.
Educational requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels
Source: Office for National Statistics.
| Level of study | Percentage achieved |
|---|---|
| Level 0 | 1% |
| Level 1 | 7% |
| Level 2 | 22% |
| Level 3 | 19% |
| Level 4-5 (Higher Education) | 17% |
| Level 6 (Bachelors) | 27% |
| Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) | 3% |
| Level 8 (Doctorate) | 5% |
Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.
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Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.
