Helpers--Production Workers
Production helpers assist manufacturing and factory workers by performing support tasks that require basic skills. They supply materials and tools to production staff, hold items in place during assembly, and maintain clean work areas and equipment. Production helpers work in factories, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities across various industries.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against helpers--production workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves moving materials between work stations, organizing supplies, and ensuring production areas stay clean and safe. Production helpers might hold components steady while experienced workers assemble products, stock tools and parts at workstations, or operate basic equipment under supervision. Tasks rotate based on immediate production needs, and much of the work is hands-on and physically active.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to like working with your hands and following established procedures without much variation. If you're detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable with routine physical work in structured environments, you're likely to find success and satisfaction in this role.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $31,200 | $46,170 | $58,750 | 220 |
| Montana | $38,460 | $46,110 | $47,850 | 220 |
| Iowa | $42,840 | $45,560 | $50,030 | 2,070 |
| Colorado | $39,120 | $45,550 | $49,760 | 1,350 |
| Washington | $40,300 | $45,450 | $52,020 | 3,620 |
| Oregon | $39,730 | $45,390 | $49,700 | 2,420 |
| Connecticut | $37,500 | $45,260 | $51,470 | 1,400 |
| Wisconsin | $37,770 | $45,100 | $49,980 | 2,900 |
| Nebraska | $30,440 | $45,020 | $49,730 | 700 |
| Minnesota | $38,330 | $44,720 | $47,840 | 2,570 |
| Rhode Island | $35,480 | $44,720 | $49,050 | 210 |
| Maryland | $37,600 | $44,680 | $53,830 | 1,650 |
All 49 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 8 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against helpers--production workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9198.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.