Page 544 - JobsPlus - Occupational Handbook

Factory Hand
Occupation Code: 9329
Alternative titles: Manufacturing Labourer, General Helper, General Assistant, Bottle Sorter, Material Handler
Job description and duties
Factory Hands are responsible for carrying out basic and repetitive tasks in factories. A Factory Hand is typically expected to:
• Check product packaging for faults
• Keep work areas clean and cleared
• Check cleanliness of equipment and
machinery and clean as required
• Perform various tasks such as boxing,
crating and bottling products
• Place products and materials on pallets and
convey them to and from work areas
• Finish products manually (such as drilling or
sanding)
• Continuously sustain good working and
documentation practices
Work environment
Factory Hands work in various manufacturing industries, including but not limited to: pharmaceuticals, plastics, food and beverage,
metal, furniture and appliances. Factory Hands are required to work in different parts of the factory, including on the shop floor and in warehouses. The role is physically demanding and involves lifting heavy objects and long hours of standing.
Factory Hands are required to work on a full- time basis. However, part-time or casual work options may also be possible. It is common for many manufacturing companies to operate on shift basis, including morning, afternoon and night. Working hours are usually up to 40 hours spread over five days a week.
Occupation data
Entry level education / special licences / warrants
There are no specific educational requirements to work as a Factory Hand, although a qualification at MQF Level 2 may be required by some employers.
Qualifications awarded by foreign bodies need to be recognised or pegged with a particular MQF Level by the MQRIC office within NCFHE.
Number of employees (2017)
1,420
Share of foreigners (2017)
32%
Job Outlook (2018 - 2022)
+18%
Median Pay (per annum)
€9,400
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