What Are Industrial Careers at I.K. Hofmann?
Industrial careers are hands-on roles that keep production and distribution running. You work with tools, machines, scanners, and teams to build products and ship orders on time. These jobs offer steady schedules, weekly pay, and clear paths to growth.
Hot Industrial Jobs
Where can you work in industrial roles?
Industrial jobs span several environments, each with a distinct pace and focus. In manufacturing plants, you’ll help produce goods at scale, working with teams to meet safety, quality, and output targets. On assembly lines and in machine cells, you’ll handle precise, repeatable tasks and operate equipment—ideal if you like hands-on work with clear standards.
Warehouses and distribution centers keep inventory moving. You’ll receive, pick, pack, and ship products, staying active while hitting measurable goals. In quality and maintenance areas, you’ll inspect parts and processes, troubleshoot issues, and perform preventive maintenance to keep equipment running safely and reliably.
What entry-level industrial roles can you start in, and what does each role do?
Industrial teams offer clear, hands-on roles where you can learn quickly and grow. Here’s what you can expect in common entry-level positions.
Assemblers build parts by following work instructions and using basic tools. You’ll check quality as you go and keep your area organized to meet safety and output targets. Production Associates support the line with material handling, simple machine tasks, and basic inspections, helping the team stay on schedule.
Picker Packers use scanners to pick items, pack orders, label boxes, and stage shipments while hitting accuracy and rate goals. Warehouse Associates receive inbound goods, put away inventory, pick orders, and support shipping, typically using RF scanners and pallet jacks.
Material Handlers move materials to production lines, perform cycle counts, and stage orders safely; depending on the site, you may use pallet jacks or forklifts. Machine Operators run equipment, monitor output, make small adjustments, and record data while following safety and quality checks. Forklift Operators use sit-down or stand-up lifts to load, unload, and move pallets, keeping travel paths clear and safe at all times.
Quality Inspectors measure parts with tools like calipers or micrometers, read specifications, document results, and stop defects before they move downstream. Maintenance Helpers or Technicians perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and repair mechanical or electrical equipment under supervision to keep operations running reliably.
What skills will you build on the job?
You’ll develop strong safety habits and PPE use, attention to detail with quality checks, and basic math and measurement. You’ll learn tool use and equipment operation, scanner and WMS basics, and grow teamwork, communication, and time management to meet rates.
What training and certifications are offered?
You’ll receive on-the-job training in safety, quality, and tools. Qualified roles include forklift certification or equipment training. Some positions introduce measurement tools and blueprint basics, and lockout/tagout awareness where required.
What growth paths can you follow in industrial careers?
You can grow along clear tracks based on your interests and strengths.
- Production: Start as an Assembler, advance to Machine Operator, then Setup Tech, Lead, and Supervisor.
- Quality: Begin as a Quality Inspector, move to Quality Tech, then Quality Engineer, and ultimately Quality Manager.
- Logistics: Start as a Warehouse Associate, progress to Inventory Control, then Logistics Lead, and Warehouse Manager.
- Maintenance: Begin as a Maintenance Helper, grow into Technician, then Millwright, and Maintenance Lead.
Tell us your goals, and we’ll recommend roles and training to help you move up
Pay varies by city, role, and experience. Entry roles offer competitive hourly rates with overtime opportunities. Many assignments are temp-to-hire and can lead to full-time client benefits, typically including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off. Check each job posting for exact pay and benefits.
Why work with I.K. Hofmann?
We place candidates quickly into production and warehouse roles so you can start earning sooner. You’ll be a W-2 employee with weekly pay and compliant onboarding backed by ISO 9001-certified processes, I9, and E-Verify. Our recruiters guide you through every step—from application to your first day. We offer contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire options so you can choose the path that fits your goals.
FAQs
What industrial jobs are hiring now?
You can find Assembler, Production Associate, Picker Packer, Warehouse Associate, Material Handler, Machine Operator, Forklift Operator, Quality Inspector, and Maintenance roles. Filter by city, shift, and pay.
Do I need experience?
Many entry level roles hire candidates with strong reliability and a willingness to learn. Prior warehouse or manufacturing experience helps but is not required for all roles.
What documents do I need?
Valid ID for employment verification and a resume if you have one. Bring any certifications such as forklift training.
How do I stand out?
Show reliability, safety focus, and attention to quality. List tool use, scanner experience, and any measurement skills.
Are there temp to hire roles?
Yes. Strong performance and attendance can lead to full-time offers with benefits.
How quickly can I start?
Timelines vary by site. Respond quickly to recruiters’ calls and messages. Be ready for interviews, onboarding, and start dates.
“The staff there are amazing. If I had to make the choice again, I would choose I.K. Hofmann every time. Molly is so caring and professional she goes over and beyond for her recruits. Not only does she go over and beyond- but all the staff at I.K. Hofmann do same. They are so welcoming and are there for my every need. I'm thankful to be a part of this amazing company.” 2/22/25, Logistics Associate
“Great service and help! Helped me get the job I desired in a timely manner and without any complications. Would definitely recommend!” (Katie 2 mo. Ago), Warehouse Associate
“Very driven, hardworking, and understanding. Knows what’s the best for each and every candidate. She goes above and beyond in everything she does. Great recruiter and definitely the best I’ve ever worked with.” (Rolyn 7/29/25), Forklift driver/Crane operator