A vehicle manufacturing worker usually works as part of a team to build vehicles. This role is also referred to as production worker, assembly line worker, or motor vehicle assembler. You will usually be assigned to part of the production line where you will be responsible for a particular part of the vehicle production. This can require a range of skills and the ability to operate machinery.
As this type of role is usually on a shift basis, you will need to be prepared to work during the evenings and sometimes at weekends.
If you are practical, enjoy working as part of a team, and like methodical work, a career as a vehicle manufacturing worker might be a good option for you.
Responsibilities
Qualifications
Skills
Salary
Career prospects
What does a vehicle manufacturing worker do?
Your day-to-day responsibilities on the production line will vary depending on which part of the vehicle assembly you work on. Some of your duties might include:
- Receiving deliveries of vehicle parts and preparing them for the production line.
- Assembling parts ready to be fitted to the vehicle.
- Shaping metal sheets that will make up the frame of the vehicle.
- Fixing parts to the frame.
- Paint spraying (see our paint sprayer job description for more information on this role).
- Quality control checks of each component.
What qualifications do you need to become a vehicle manufacturing worker?
There are no specific entry requirements for this role but there are some ways you could make your CV more attractive to an employer. A good education to GCSE level is important. Grades A*-C (9-4) in English and Maths could help your prospects. There are also several courses you could take at college level relating to vehicle maintenance that could help prove your interest in the automotive industry.
Work experience in a similar position will help your CV stand out. Most manufacturers will offer in-house training so previous experience is not essential.
What skills do you need to become a vehicle manufacturing worker?
The ability to work in a team: This is essential as each member of the team must complete their work to the correct standard and on time to keep the production line running efficiently.
An eye for detail: You must be able to ensure that each component you complete is done correctly and meets quality standards.
The ability to work to a deadline: You will have a certain amount of time to complete your tasks so you will need to be able to manage your time well.
Hand-to-eye coordination: You will need to be able to operate machinery or use hand tools to complete your tasks.
How much does a vehicle manufacturing worker earn?
Starting salary: £11,500 – £15,000
Experienced: £16,000 – £22,000
Senior: £22,000+
These figures are intended as a guide and come from the National Careers Service.
What are your career prospects as a vehicle manufacturing worker?
As you gain experience and take on more responsibility, you could become a supervisor for part of the production line. You could also do further training that will allow you to work as an engineer on the production line. Your main responsibilities in this role will involve maintaining the production machinery.
