explore your career in industrial support

The industrial support industry encompasses a wide range of jobs that involve physical or manual work across various sectors. It involves tasks that typically do not require specialized skills or extensive training. The industry caters to the demand for workers who can perform manual tasks efficiently and effectively.

Industrial support jobs can be found in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, agriculture, warehousing, transportation, hospitality, and maintenance. These jobs often involve tasks such as loading and unloading materials, operating machinery, packaging products, cleaning and maintenance, landscaping, basic construction work, and other physical tasks as needed.

The industrial support industry plays a crucial role in supporting the overall functioning of various sectors. It provides the necessary workforce to perform essential tasks that contribute to the production, delivery, and maintenance of goods and services. While the nature of the work may vary depending on the sector, industrial jobs are characterized by physical labor, adaptability, and a willingness to perform a wide range of tasks.

Workers in industrial support may be employed on a temporary, part-time, or full-time basis, depending on the specific needs of employers. The industry provides opportunities for individuals seeking entry-level positions or those who prefer hands-on work without requiring extensive educational qualifications or specialized skills. It serves as a vital component of the labor market, offering employment opportunities to a diverse range of individuals.

Industrial support and general labour wages vary by job. Most general labourers make an hourly rate ranging from $15 per hour to the mid $23 range. The minimum wage in all Canadian provinces is now over $15, most industrial workers make a little more than minimum wage depending on the experience, the industry, and the sector. There are opportunities to advance into supervisory roles and increase your earning potential.

The broad range of industrial support jobs means your work will vary depending on your job title. Some of your daily tasks you may include:

• working as a part of an assembly line
• reading or analyzing product schematics
• conducting quality control inspections
• operating heavy machinery such as a forklift
• stocking or inventorying merchandise
• cleaning or maintaining machinery
• fulfilling orders and packing boxes
• unloading or unpacking merchandise

The bulk of general labour jobs are found in manufacturing and warehousing. Occasionally, support jobs are also found in retail. You will most likely work in an industrial setting where you wear a uniform or your own casual clothes.

If you're a diligent, reliable worker, there are plenty of job opportunities all across Canada. Whether you’re exploring your options or are searching for an industrial job right now, Randstad can help you find a manufacturing or general labour job that fits your lifestyle. Get started by meeting a recruiter.

As an industrial worker or general labourer, you are hardworking. You don't mind working up a sweat and putting in a little muscle to get your job done. You're used to standing on your feet throughout the day and relying on your physicality. You also work well in a team setting. You frequently work with others and need to be able to cooperate to do your job.

Industrial support and general labourer jobs require little to no formal training. Depending on the job, some employers may ask for a high school education or equivalent. Prior training as a forklift operator is an asset and may help you bump up your rate of pay. Many employers will also offer training as part of your employment.

Opportunities to advance as industrial support worker or general labourer include supervisory roles in manufacturing and warehousing. Many employers prefer to hire from within.

Another option is to obtain additional training. With an apprenticeship or post-secondary training, you can move into higher paying jobs in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. For instance, learning a skilled trade will increase your employability.