Two words that everyone hates to hear… student debt. With the federal student loan debt reaching nearly $1.5 trillion dollars in the United States, according to the Federal Student Aid Office of the U.S. Department of Education, it can be safe to say that getting a college education can be quite expensive.
In fact, student loan debt has even surpassed credit card and auto debt, remaining second only to housing debt.
So, with student debt skyrocketing you are probably thinking, “how do I get a job without a four-year degree?” Well, college is not the only way to start off on a career path to well-paid work. There are plenty of opportunities in service, healthcare, information technology (IT), and manufacturing. These jobs are known as “new-collar” jobs. With “new-collar” jobs, employers are seeking someone with the right technical and soft skills, not just the right degree.
The term “new-collar” was introduced by IBM CEO Ginni Rometty in late 2016. The term refers to “middle-skill” occupations, and is a play on “blue-collar jobs.”
Instead of the four-year degree, “new-collar” workers hone their skills through community college programs, vocational training, apprenticeships, among other training.
Here are eight “new-collar” jobs for workers who are ready to start earning money and building a future today – without the burden of debt hanging over their heads. Information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
1. Machinist
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent, with on the job training.
Median Yearly Pay (2018): $44,950
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $21.61
Machinist jobs are in high demand going into 2020, and there are many to choose from. Machinists set up and operate machine tools to produce precision metal parts, and instruments. A college degree is not required to become a machinist, however, this skilled trade does require specialized training.
2. Automotive Service Technician and Mechanic
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent. Some postsecondary programs required.
Median Yearly Pay (2018): $40,710
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $19.57
Automotive service technicians and mechanics work to inspect, maintain, and repair vehicles. To work in this profession, most employers prefer you to complete a program at a post-secondary institution. Industry certifications are required with certain employers. There are many types of service technicians including automotive air-conditioning technicians, brake technicians, diagnostic technicians, front-end technicians, and transmission technicians and rebuilders.
3. Food Service Manager
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Yearly Pay (2018): $54,250
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $26.08
Food service managers are responsible for the daily operation of restaurants or other establishments that prepare and serve food and beverage. To qualify as a manager, most applicants have a high school diploma along with several years of experience in the food service industry. There are some that receive additional training at a community college, vocational school, culinary school, and a few earn a 4-year degree. The employment of food service managers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
4. Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Yearly Pay (2018): $41,380
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $19.89
Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers use hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to join, repair, or cut metal parts and products. To work in this occupation, you need a high school diploma, combined with technical and on-the-job training. Growth for this profession is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028, with the nation’s aging infrastructure requiring the expertise of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers to help rebuild bridges, highways, and buildings.
5. Medical Assistant
Education Required: Postsecondary nondegree award
Median Yearly Pay (2018): $33,610
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $16.16
Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, offices of physicians, and other healthcare facilities. The majority of medical assistants have postsecondary education, such as a certificate, but others learn through on-the-job training. The growth of this occupation is projected to increase by 23 percent from 2018 to 2028.
6. Veterinary Technologist and Technician
Education Required: Associate’s degree
Median Pay (2018): $34,420
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $16.55
A post-secondary program is required in order to work as a veterinary technologist or technician. Most veterinary clinics prefer a technician to have a 2-year associate’s degree, and technologists to have a 4-year bachelor’s. As a veterinary technologist and technician, you will perform medical tests that help diagnose animals’ injuries and illnesses. The employment of vet technologists and technicians is projected to grow 19 percent from 2018 to 2028.
7. Photographer
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Pay (2018): $34,000
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $16.35
Although portrait photographers are not required to have postsecondary education, many take classes to enhance their skills. Depending on the specialty of the photographer, working conditions do vary. Photojournalists and industrial and scientific photographers often need a bachelor’s degree. Job growth is projected to decline as companies are contracting with freelancers, rather than hiring their own photographers.
8. Travel Agent
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Pay (2018): $38,700
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $18.61
Travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips. Travel agents typically work in an office setting, however, there are some that do work remotely. Most travel agents work for travel agencies. A high school diploma typically is required for someone wanting to work as a travel agent, with some additional formal training.
9. Real Estate Brokers & Sales Agent
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Pay (2018): $50,300
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $24.18
Real estate brokers and sales agents help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. To become a real estate broker or agent, you are going to have to earn your license, which requirements vary by state. Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is projected to grow seven percent from 2018 to 2028.
10. Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers
Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent
Median Pay (2018): $40,660
Median Hourly Pay (2018): $19.55
Dispatchers, also called public safety telecommunicators, work answering emergency and nonemergency calls. They work in emergency communication centers called public safety answering points (PSAPs). Dispatchers must be available around the clock, so they often have to work evenings, weekends or holidays. While some states do require certifications, most dispatchers only need a high school diploma. Due to the stressful nature of this job, there are many workers leaving the occupation, so projected growth from 2018 to 2028 is six percent.
If these 10 jobs have not yet sparked your interest, take a look at some other “new-collar” job options from US News and World Report:
Sales and Marketing
Sales Representative
Insurance Sales Agent
Business
Executive Assistant
Healthcare Support
Hearing Aid Specialist
Surgical Technologist
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse
Creative and Media
Sound Engineering Technician
Choreographer
Maintenance and Repair
Wind Turbine Technician
Social Services
Patrol Officer
Firefighter
Bus Driver
Construction
Electrician
Structural Iron and Steelworker
Plumber
Brickmason and Block Mason
Sheet Metal Worker
Equipment Operator
Carpenter
Glazier
Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Insulation Contractor
How Friday Services Can Help!
If you are looking to start a new career or just looking for “new-collar” opportunities, Friday Services can help! In business for 40 years, Fridays can connect you with the best that Western North Carolina has to offer. From industrial to clerical to hospitality, and everything in between, give Friday Services a call (828)684-8700, and let us work to get you hired.
“Bringing the right people to the right job every time.” This is the motto Friday Services was founded on when opening our doors in 1980. As we celebrate 40 years of serving Western North Carolina, our core mission and values have never changed.
To celebrate 40 years serving Western North Carolina and the surrounding regions, let’s take a trip down memory lane from 1980 until today.
Humble Roots
Debbie Wilson, founder of “Girl Friday Services” in 1980. (Pictured back row, right-hand side)
All great stories start with a person and a passion. For Friday Services, this person was Debbie Wilson.
Wilson was an astute woman in Hendersonville, N.C. with a drive to help others fine-tune their professional portfolios. So in 1980, she decided to start a secretarial business to assist local clients. She would type-up letters and reports, and offered general office support.
People loved her work so much that a local business asked her to provide her services at their location. Thus began “Girl Friday Services,” which later became “Friday Temporary Services” in the mid-1980s.
John and Diane Modaff, owners of Friday Temporary Services (which later became Friday Services).
As Wilson’s business grew, so did her family. This led her to sell the company in August of 1987, to focus and devote more time to her family.
The couple she sold the business to became the owners of what is known today as “Friday Services,” John and Diane Modaff.
“Friday Temporary Services”
The Modaffs were the foundation for which the Friday Services’ name was built.
John and Diane moved to Western North Carolina from Illinois in 1985. John worked for 25 years as a commercial banking executive and Diane enjoyed working as a temporary office employee for the Arthur Anderson Company.
After achieving long successful careers in their respected fields, the Modaffs wanted to try their hand at something new together that emphasized their passion for helping people. This lead to the decision to purchase Debbie Wilson’s business in 1987 and rename it Friday Services Services.
Expanding into Asheville
What started off as a single office in Hendersonville, N.C. with only three in-house employees, quickly expanded into Asheville and beyond.
John and Diane watched the company take off from humble beginnings to a thriving locally-owned business. It was with this success that they decided to pass the torch to their son, David, and daughter, Lynda, in the late 2000s.
The Modaff Legacy
David Modaff started his career in the construction industry, where he worked for 17 years building homes and stores for people. Then in 2000, he decided to join the family business, where instead of building structures, he likes to say he “helps to build the people themselves.”
John Modaff and son, David Modaff.
Before becoming President and CEO of Friday Services, David dedicated five-years to his parents’ company.
Since taking over the reins, David has seen rapid growth in both Friday Services’ client and employee base. Today Friday Services has placed tens of thousands of employees in jobs all across WNC.
David Modaff Headshot
In addition to his business success, David is a strong believer in giving back to the community that has supported and helped Fridays grow. David serves on multiple boards in the area, including serving as chair of the Chamber of Commerce in Henderson County. In addition, he donates to local charities each year including: Make-A-Wish, United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County, and Eblen-Kimmel Charities.
“It is a fantastic way to give back to the community where Fridays resides,” said David.
As for his sister Lynda, she currently resides in Los Angeles, California and works designing graphic art for the business. She even designed and created our beloved Dalmatian, “Dog Friday”!
It is their goal to continue their parents’ legacy by being the preferred supplier of human resources in the areas we serve in the years to come.
Thank you WNC for 40 years of support! Here’s to 40 more years serving our local community.
Reliable, dependable, hardworking, generous, and humble – these are just a few of the many admirable qualities of Rachel Levi. “She consistently puts others before herself and has an incredibly positive attitude, that is infectious to everyone around her,” said Sissy Rogers, VP of Human Resources at SELEE Corporation.
Levi works as a Process Operator and team member of the SELEE Corporation in Hendersonville, NC. SELEE is known as “the world’s leading manufacturer of ceramic foam” used in superalloy applications including jet engines and other aerospace applications.
As a team member of SELEE, Levi works to meticulously inspect and package products before distribution, a very hands-on position.
“She [Rachel] is responsive and knows what needs to be done,” said Kris Jackson, Production Manager at SELEE. “You don’t have to constantly tell her what to do, she knows what needs to be done and she does it.”
It is that work ethic, combined with her overall joyful personality, that has earned Levi the 2019 Friday Services’ Staffing Employee of the Year Award.
Levi’s story started out like any other, a young woman new to the workforce, looking for a place to get her foot in the door. The Brevard native found her first job at a local sewing factory. She later moved on to work a variety of positions including working for a local pharmacy, a manager of a Wellington Puritan Mills Outlet Store for a number of years, working a stint with GE, before finally landing her at SELEE in 1997, at the age of 48. Levi dedicated her time to being the best employee that she could be, working diligently day in and day out.
But her story doesn’t come without hardships and challenges. In the late-2000s, following the economic downturn, Levi found herself laid off without a job and without prospects. That is when she decided to turn to an employment agency, Friday Services to be specific.
At her more experienced age, Levi didn’t know if she would be able to find a position to afford her the flexibility that she was searching for. But, within a matter of months, Levi was able to return to SELEE and back to her team – more excited than ever.
“They are like a second family to me,” said Levi about her team members.
The feeling is mutual for Jackson. “As far as Rachel’s character, her personality, and what she brings to our family,” said Jackson, “she is one of a kind.”
Now, Levi could not be happier. She has worked for over 22 years with SELEE, both as a full-time employee and as a contracted (temp) employee. When asked what it has meant to work for a company like SELEE for so long, “it has been a blessing, a real blessing,” said Levi. And by working through Friday Services as a temp since 2009, this has allowed Levi the chance to earn money, work a flexible schedule, gain her social security, and help care for her husband.
It’s Monday morning. You are coming off a nice weekend with your friends, hiking the Appalachian Trail or checking out the latest breweries. But alas – the weekend is over and now you are back in your car on your way to work. You pull into the parking lot, let out an audible sigh, and say to yourself “another day, another dollar.” Now, if this sounds familiar to you, it may be a sign that it’s time for a change – maybeeven a time to change jobs.
Whether you have been at your job for a while, don’t feel challenged enough, or simply notice your motivation dwindling – it is not uncommon to hit a rut at some point at work. But how can you tell if it is just temporary, or, if it means you should make a change?
That is what we are here for! Here are five signs that it may be time to change jobs:
1. Dreading every (weekday) morning
Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”
It rings loud and clear for any person in any line of work. People spend A LOT of time at their job! In fact, the standard workweek in the United States is 40 hours long – which ends up being about 2,000 hours per year, or 1/3 of your life spent working. So, if you are dreading going to work most of the time, this is a BIG sign that you are due for a change.
2. Affecting your mental health
In this day and age, an emphasis is put on individuals and the importance of their mental health – especially in the workplace. If you haven’t already, take a moment to check yourself and notice any recent changes to your mood, anxiety levels, or sleep patterns. Are you feeling negative energy at work? If so, are you bringing that energy home with you and into your personal life? Constant negativity and stress can be toxic to one’s mental health and could be a sign that it is time to change jobs.
Image Courtesy of Believe Perform
*Note: If you notice that you not enjoying the same things you used to, there could be a bigger issue in play. Make sure to check in with a psychologist or your primary care physician to be safe, and go over all your options. Click here for more information and tools to help.
3. Less productivity during the day
Courtesy @SarahAnderson
Are you not getting work done like you used to? Do you find your mind wandering off during the day? If you are checking Facebook every 10 minutes, find yourself daydreaming more often, or seem bored with tasks that used to challenge you, then you may need to look for a more mentally stimulating job.
Decreased productivity in the workplace is a strong sign that you are not being challenged enough at your current position. Talk with your supervisor or manager about taking on more responsibilities. If the response is negative and there is no feedback or any room for growth, it may be time to change jobs.
4. No room for advancement
Something that most employees yearn for is growth opportunities within their organization. People want to move up in their company to learn, grow as a professional, and to gain that higher title (and the bigger paycheck isn’t that bad either). But maybe you have been passed up for a promotion time and time again, or there is no position higher than the one you are working, or the company does not regularly move their employees up.
If this is the case, it may be time to move to a company that does offer growth and advancements.
5. Feelings like it’s time to move on
Something that can often get overlooked, is your instincts. Turn off the logical part of your brain for a moment and instead, listen to your gut. What is it telling you? No one knows what you want or what you are thinking, better than you. If you have a sense that your time has come to an end at your current company, listen to that voice and start exploring other options. Be honest with yourself.
Don’t forget before you leave!
Do keep in mind that you should think about your next moves before turning in your notice. Make sure that your current job responsibilities do not go by the wayside while you are pursuing new opportunities. You do not want to hurt your professional relationships by making a hasty decision.
Also, take the time to plan your job search and even reach out to a recruiter in your area! Employment agencies, like Friday Services, have some of the best connections in the local job market and will work with you to find the absolute best fit for you. It is their job to alleviate some of the stresses of finding a new job, and they can be the best tool for your job search.
It’s time- you are preparing to make the big move(a.k.a. relocating). Your home is being overtaken by those large brown boxes and rolls and rolls of packing tape. Things are chaotic. It looks like a twister hit inside your house and, despite your better judgement, there is a box fort the middle of your living room. (Admit it, even as adults, who can resist a box fort?!)
Before you know it, your car is packed to the brim with all your worldly possessions and you are ready to embark on your next adventure.
There are many factors to why someone relocates: family, expenses, change of pace, etc. Whatever it may be, it is important to do your research before you head out on your journey.
Whether you are thinking about relocating in the near future, or you have the car gassed up and ready to head on the road today, here are a few tips from our team of Certified Staffing Professionals on how to make the smoothest transitions possible to your new location:
Get To Know Your Environment
“Know your new environment before relocating, and get to know what is in the area and available to you.”
– Shena Keller, Staffing Generalist
“Check out the town’s government website for comparisons on food, gas, living prices compared to where you currently live now. Join local Facebook groups to familiarize yourself with your neighbors and community events. Sign up for the Next-Door App – neighbors are very helpful on there!”
– Caitlin McEvoy, Staffing Coordinator
Start Your Job Search Early
“If you are planning on relocating, and have time, start your job search months in advance of your projected move. Also, be available to interview in person at your destination city prior to your move.”
– Rick Guthrie, Professional Recruiter
Do Your Research
“Research the area you are relocating to. It is important to research things such as: cost of living, jobs available in your field, schools, neighborhoods, crime, weather, and activities to do.”
“Compare housing prices to pay rates for that area.”
– Lisa Sargent, Manager of Finance and Accounting/Branch Manager
Rent First
“Rent for a year before buying so you can figure out the lay of the land. Where you’re going to work. Where you’re going to play. If kids, school districts. Traffic.”
– Mark Sternal, Professional Recruiter
Reach Out to Your Network
“Work your contacts. Ask around to friends/network to see if they know anyone personally who lives/works in the area you are moving to. If so, schedule a phone call with that person to see what opportunities could come of that.”
– Kelsey Maxwell, Staffing Generalist
Make a Plan
“Have a set date for when you will be in the area, that way employers will have a timeline of when you could start. It gives some reassurance to everyone!”
– Michelle Fann, Staffing Coordinator
“Give yourself enough time to unpack and get settled. You want to make sure you are ready for work and can relax at home after a long day.”
– Brendan Warner, Staffing Coordinator
By: Brianna Ek
Find the Right Job for You Today!
At Friday Services, we are proud to work with employees of all ages. Our goal is to place the right people in the right jobs every time. We would love to get to know you and match you with a job that helps you feel fulfilled. Check out all of our available job posts, and contact us with any questions.
“Raise your hand if you have ever felt personally victimized by Regina George.” Yes, this may be a quote from the infamous movie Mean Girls, but ever think this quote may apply to more than just the movie?
Sometimes life, and the stresses of your job, can grind you down and make it feel like you HAVE been victimized by Regina.
Maybe you were passed up for a promotion, maybe you were let go, or maybe the job that used to make you happy does not anymore and it is time to make a change.
It’s okay, many people feel the harsh sting of a career setback at least once in their lives. But what if I told there is a silver lining? Even a dramatic setback can be just the springboard you need to succeed, even if it does not feel that way now.
Here are five tips to help you overcome any professional setback:
1. Understand what went wrong
Before you can start moving on to new opportunities, it is important to learn from your past. What went wrong and how can you avoid making the same mistakes again in the future?
Feedback is the key to moving on from your career setback.
In this case it is important to think objectively. Did you have control over the events? Was it something you could have handled better? Was it your overall job performance? Sometimes this means asking for feedback from supervisors, coworkers, or anyone who will give you a direct and honest answer. It may be tough, but there is always something that can be learned from any setback.
2. Tell yourself it is okay – this could be a blessing in disguise
You probably have heard these sayings before: “we are our own worst enemies” or “the only one standing in the way of your happiness is yourself.”
Pick any of these clichés and you will reach the same conclusion- you have to get out of your own way, tell yourself it is okay, and accept it. Take the time to grieve, and then say to yourself this could be a blessing in disguise. This gives me the opportunity to make a change for the better in my life. It may be hard to grasp but you will soon find out that this is exactly the case.
Also, seek advice from someone who has made it through a similar situation. As mentioned earlier in this article, most people experience a career setback at least once in their lives, just look at J.K. Rowling!
3. Brainstorm your options
A career setback is often the perfect time for internal reflection and personal reassessment.
Light bulb with drawing graph
Brainstorm New Ideas
With all the new opportunities and technology out there, the world is your oyster. All you have to do it break it open and start searching. But, before you go down the Google rabbit hole, take some time to think and write down ideas for where and what you would like to do next. What skills or education do the jobs you are looking into require? Do you have those skills? If not, where can you learn them?
Also think about if you want to stay in the same industry or if you want to try something new. In addition to your own searches, try calling a recruiter. They have been trained in exactly how to help someone through situations just like these. They also have the best connections in your area to new and exciting job opportunities. Any resources to help you better navigate your next steps.
4. Time to start searching and reaching out to your network
Okay, if you have reached this part, you have officially navigated through the five stages of grief and are now on acceptance. Which means, it’s time for action! Time to look for your next big move- whether it be a different role in your company, a transition to a new one, or shifting to a different industry entirely.
Talk to Your Network
Start by reaching out to your professional network, then move along to job boards, and talk to an employment agency as well. Make sure to keep your resume and your brainstorming notes handy on what you are looking for. It can seem daunting at first, but this is an important step to the rest of your life.
5. Set new goals and put the past behind you
Stages of business development and growth from initial idea to a market leadership. Little businessman characters working in various poses on a bar graph. Flat vector illustration on white background.
Don’t let the your setback stop you. Keep working hard to reach that ultimate goal.
Ultimately it is tough to fully recover from any professional failure until you move on to your next opportunity or job. Now is the time to make new goals for yourself based on what you have learned. Make your goals specific and measurable and add a time-frame on them, to keep yourself on track.
It is often said that things happen for a reason. What may seem like a step backwards can actually put you on a fresh and exciting new career path. It is not the failures that define us, but how you recover that shows your true testament.
So, keep your head up and if you need any further advice or help improving your skills, give Friday Services a call. We work to get your resume in front of the right people, to get you hired and on your new career path!
By itself, with no context, this number is does not mean much. 1,500 what you ask? Dollars, puppies, avocados?
But what if I told you that 1,500 represents the number of people Friday Services has placed in full-time/permanent jobs since 2014. Now double that! That adds up to nearly 3,000 people hired full-time by our clients, since 2009. Now, that is an impressive number.
Friday Services’ Asheville Office
Something that a majority of people automatically assume when working with employment agencies, like Friday Services, is that we only hire temporary positions. While yes, we do hire temporary jobs — along with short-term, long-term, part-time and temp-to-perm positions — it is our mission to get those looking for full-time positions hired-on by our client partners. This is not only important to our business’s success, but it is important to us as a member of the community for almost 40 years. In our eyes, our employees’ success is our success.
A.S.A. Logo
In fact, according to the American Staffing Association, staffing companies hire nearly 17 million employees in a year. Out of those 17 million, half say that going through an employment agency is a way to get a permanent job.
“But how does that apply to me finding full-time work?” You ask.
Well, Fridays works to get employees in the door at companies that are otherwise hard to reach. We get your resume in front of the right people – to get you noticed.
Companies work with us to fill positions that are not directly posted on their job boards. It is up to us to take the time necessary to really get to know our employees personally, along with their individual needs and goals. Then, we match the skills and experience of our employees with needs of the company, to create the seamless fit for both parties. This match provides employees with the opportunity to showcase their skills and work ethic.
Fridays also provide resources to help our employees develop the skills and certifications needed to excel at the job they are looking for. We offer continued support to all our employees and even offer some of the best benefits in the industry, including: health insurance, paid holidays and vacations, 401(K) matching, and referral bonuses.
By: Brianna Ek
Find a Full-Time Job Today!
At Friday Services, we are proud to work with employees of all ages. Our goal is to place the right people in the right jobs every time. We would love to get to know you and match you with a job that helps you feel fulfilled. Check out all of our available job posts, and contact us with any questions.
You have heard it time and time again – a resume is your key to getting that dream job you’ve always wanted. Yes, it may sound cliché, but it is true!
Resumes often serve as the first impression a potential employer has on you. Just like Thor wouldn’t go into battle without his hammer, you shouldn’t go into the job hunt without a strong resume.
To help put your best foot forward, here are our top 5 tips to create a resume that will make you stand out from the pack.
1. Review industry examples
No two resumes are alike. A resume for a graphic designer is not going to look the same as one for a Machinist. Before you get started, or even if you already have one created, take some time to review examples from your industry to use as inspiration. Tailor your resume to best fit the industry you are applying to.
2. Use an easy-to-read font
Remember such fonts you used in high school, like Comic Sans, Papyrus, or Brush Script. Well, time to let those go and choose a more professional font for your resume. Try using Calibri, Garamond, or Georgia, and be sure to keep it consistent throughout the entirety of the document.
3. Keep experience relevant
So many times, applicants use the same resume to apply for every job. Just like shoes, there is not a “one size fits all” with resumes. It is imperative to customize yours for every job you apply to.
Another good tip is to use keywords from the job description and sprinkle them throughout your resume. In this technological world, more and more large-scale companies are using automated computer programs to filter through online applications. So, by having those keywords in your resume, it will tell the computer that yours is ready to be seen by the hiring manager.
4. Add numbers that quantify accomplishments
Yes, it is good to know what your job duties were in your last position, but what employers really like to see are tangible examples of what you have accomplished. Instead of saying, “Updated departmental files,” try saying something like, “Implemented a new system of filing” or “increased sales by 15%.” When you write accomplishments in your resume, you are showing recruiters that you are an achiever who goes above and beyond your job responsibilities.
5. Use the active voice
Before we dive into our final tip, let’s get a little technical. The active voice describes a sentence where the subject performs the action stated by the verb. Example: “Susan increased Twitter engagement by six percent.”
In contrast, the passive voice is when the subject is acted upon by the verb. The best example (especially for any Star Wars fans) is Yoda. “The Dark Side I sense in you,” is not the phrasing you want to use in your resume.
When you write your resume in the active voice, you add impact to your writing. Some examples of active verbs to include in your resume are: increased, created, enforced, implemented, tested, managed, and designed. Using these words will help set your resume apart.
It may take some time, and a few revisions, but your resume is the first step towards getting an interview with an employer, and eventually that dream job. But, these are not the only tips out there. If you are looking for more information, take a look at what our recruiters recommend as other “Do’s and Don’ts” for writing a resume.
So, you are looking for a job in the manufacturing industry?
Odds are that on your search, you have come across the following positions: Machine Operator, CNC Machine Operator, and CNC Machinist. You may even have seen the job title: CNC Programmer.
You’ve heard of each of these jobs, but cannot tell what differentiates one from the other—which is what ultimately led you to this article. All of these jobs may sound similar, but there are distinct differences between them, and we are here to clear things up.
What Is a Machine Operator?
To succeed as a Machine Operator, you need to have the skills and training to set up, run, and do basic maintenance on production equipment.
Depending on the job, to qualify for a Machine Operator position, you must have some on-the-job experience, or have obtained training from a technical school. Job skills that may be necessary to be a machine operator include the ability to:
Read measuring tape, gauges, and calipers
Follow work orders
Perform safety inspections on production machines
Monitor product quality
Fill out paperwork
Most employers who are hiring for machine operator jobs are looking for candidates who have a high school diploma or GED, basic math and reading skills, ability to work in a fast-paced environment (either alone or with a team), flexibility to cross-train and multitask, and the skills to communicate well with supervisors and co-workers.
What Does a CNC Machine Operator Do?
Now, if you read a CNC operator job description, it may seem similar to what a general machine operator does. The primary difference is that a CNC Machine Operator specializes in a specific type of machine—Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines.
A Computer Numerical Controlled machine is a type of equipment usually found in the metalworking industry. CNC equipment includes pre-programmed computer software that controls how the machine tools operate. This precision machinery cuts, grinds, drills, or shapes different types of materials, from metal to plastic and more.
What Is a CNC Machinist?
Like a CNC Machine Operator, CNC Machinists also work with Computer Numerical Controlled machines; both positions work to set up and operate CNC machines and equipment.
The differences are that a CNC Machinist (sometimes referred to as a CNC set-up operator) has additional duties which include: programming, quality control, fixing mechanical errors, and supervising or managing other CNC Operators.
CNC Machinists typically have more experience than a CNC Machine Operator but perform the same primary responsibilities and tasks.
CNC Machining is a skilled industrial job that requires specialized training. Many technical schools and community colleges offer classes that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed as a CNC Machinist.
What is a CNC Programmer?
A CNC Programmer is responsible for creating the instructions that control CNC machines. CNC Programmers translate design specifications and blueprints into machine-readable code that allows a machine to produce accurate and consistent products.
Here’s a breakdown of what a CNC Programmer typically does:
Interpret blueprints and design specifications
Select the appropriate CNC machine for production processes
Translate the requirements of detailed part drawings into measurements for production
Set-up and calibration of equipment and accessories
Load and unload equipment and materials
Log and record readings for equipment and procedures
Follow company safety protocol
Equipment maintenance and cleaning
Ensure machine procedures are done per company guidelines
Inspecting finished products
CNC Machine Operators are detail-oriented, should be able to perform price mathematical calculations, and have strong computer, problem-solving, and multi-tasking skills.
CNC Machinist
Operate machine tools for drilling, turning, milling, and grinding
Knowledge of the working properties of metal
Programming and basic setup of CNC machines
Blueprint reading
Math skills
Standard shop practices
Ability to read gauges and calipers
Some jobs also require several years of CNC machining experience.
CNC Programmer
Interpret blueprints and design specifications
Select appropriate CNC machine for production processes
Write CNC software programs
Set up CNC machines and test/debug programs
Monitor and optimize production
Maintain documentation
CNC Opportunities With Friday Staffing
If you, or someone you know, have the skills and experience necessary for a job as a Machine Operator, CNC Operator, CNC Machinist, or CNC Programmer, let Friday Services help you achieve your goals!
Friday Services makes it easy to find the right job at all stages of your career. Our team specializes in placing job seekers in all types of manufacturing jobs in Western North Carolina, including all the above types of work.
We have built relationships with some of the leading manufacturers, distribution centers, and other industrial employers in our region and we know what skills and experience they want. We do the hard work necessary to match you with an employer, and a job that suits your skills and experience. To get started, fill out our online job application or contact us.
Let’s face it, once you interview for a job, the worst feeling in the world is waiting to hear back.
It’s called the “waiting game”, and it is what every job seeker loves to hate. You can spend days, heck even weeks, wondering if you made a good impression, or if you said “like” or “um” one too many times.
In fact, a study found that the average time-to-hire for employers was around 38 days, according to the 2018 Recruiting Benchmark Report. This can seem like an eternity when you are looking for work!
And short of channeling your inner Flash and running to the future, it can seem like there is not much you can do but wait and twiddle your thumbs.
Regrettably, it is a given that you are at the mercy of the company and their hiring process. But do not fret because there ARE a few things you can do to speed that process along and help the employer come to a decision more quickly.
1. Ask about what is next
Before you even leave the interview room, make sure you ask about next steps. What does the timeline looks like moving forward? This not only shows that you are serious about the job, but it also forces the employer to think about what they may need from you. Bringing up next steps might even give you a chance to push the hiring process forward.
2. Follow up, follow up, follow up!
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make after an interview is forgetting to follow up. Nothing shows an employer how interested you are in the position, than a follow up note after an interview. Take a minute to thank the interviewer for their time and stress your interest in the position.
This is also a great time to mention anything you may have forgotten to say in your interview and emphasize your qualifications. But, remember to keep it short and concise, we do not need any essays being sent to interviewers.
You can send either a handwritten note, or a thank you email, which will help you to stay fresh in interviewer’s mind.
3. Have references ready to go!
Do not wait until the employer asks for references to make a list. Write down your list now and save it on your desktop! This way, when they ask for references, you have it ready to send and do not have to waste any extra time. If you have it read, you can even bring a copy to the interview with you in case they ask for it!
**TIP** Make sure that you really think about who you want as a professional reference. Do you want someone to speak highly of your work ethic? Do you want someone who can best illustrate your personality strengths? It is imperative to choose someone who best knows you professionally.
4. Keep searching, and let them know
While the employer is still vetting candidates, you will most likely still be searching for jobs. With that being said, it is important that you keep the companies informed on your job prospects as well. Let them know you are still on the hunt and if you have received any interest from, or if you have interviewed for, any other companies.
This could potentially expedite the process, by letting the employer know that you still are interested in the job, but that you are also in demand.
5. Find a recruiter or staffing agency
One thing that tends to get overlooked during the job search, is reaching out to a staffing or employment agency. There can be a stigma about asking for help but staffing agencies can be a valuable resource during your job hunt.
Since recruiters have direct contact with companies looking to hire, they can keep the hiring process moving swiftly for job seekers. They can also help spruce up your resume and cover letter, catering it to the specific job you are looking for.
These types of agencies are no longer just for temporary employment either, a lot are looking for part-time or full-time hires. Recruiters, especially like the ones at Friday Services, are passionate about finding employees jobs that fit their specific needs.
Just remember, while these tips can help you accelerate the hiring process, be aware that you are not too forward. Be persistent but respectful of the employer’s time. And most importantly, good luck!
So many times, applicants use the same resume to apply for every job. Just like shoes, there is not a “one size fits all” with resumes. It is imperative to customize yours for every job you apply to.
