Production manager (manufacturing)
Organise the people and processes in a factory so the production lines run properly. You'll use sustainable materials where possible.
About the job
What it's like
You'll make sure a factory's production processes run smoothly and efficiently. As the person who keeps everything on track, a production manager organises the factory's people and production line.
Working with supervisors and maintenance staff, you'll plan what needs done and set targets. You'll also make sure the finished products are ready on time and meet quality standards.
You could work in all types of manufacturing, including:
vehicle assembly
brewing
food products
textiles
pharmaceuticals
building materials
Your tasks might include:
planning and preparing orders then estimating the timescales and costs involved
controlling production processes and making adjustments if problems occur
managing the production supervisors and organising staff to make sure orders are delivered on time
creating production reports for factory managers and clients
looking for ways to reduce waste, streamline processes and boost productivity
making sure all operations comply with safety regulations and company policies
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You may:
promote energy-saving practices, like switching off machinery and lighting when they're not in use
make sure staff are aware of recycling procedures
source sustainable materials for the manufacturing process
Hours
This role may involve shift work or on-call duties to deal with problems that arise outside normal working hours.
Environment
You'll have your own office but will spend most of your time on the factory floor, discussing day-to-day issues with your colleagues.
You'll wear protective clothing when based in production areas.
Travel
Occasionally, you may travel to visit suppliers or clients.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- production management
- continuous improvement process
- key performance indicators (kpis)
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- motivating others
- making decisions
- delegating
- coaching
- time management
- developing a plan
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- building relationships
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Business Management
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Maths (Mathematics)
Practical Craft Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Business Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Foundation Apprenticeship: Food and Drink Technologies
Skills for Work: Food and Drink Manufacturing Industry
Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Generally, people spend time in a less senior manufacturing role before moving into production management.
Employers will value your skills and knowledge more than just qualifications. But you may need qualifications for some jobs. Regardless, getting a qualification can be a great way to grow your understanding and equip yourself for production manager roles.
University
You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Manufacturing or Production Engineering
Mechanical or Industrial Engineering
Operations Management
Supply Chain Management
Business Management
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you get a production-based job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Mechanical Engineering
Manufacturing Engineering
Engineering Systems
Supply Chain Management
Business Management
Work
You can become a production manager without any qualifications. To do this, you'll need to build skills and experience in an entry-level manufacturing role. For example, you could work as a machine operator or technician.
Once you've spent time in one of these jobs, you could become a supervisor or team leader. You'll then be in a strong position to apply for production manager roles.
Qualifications such as an SVQ in Industrial Applications (Level 2) or Management (Level 3, 4 or 5) may be beneficial.
A good knowledge of health and safety regulations is important. You should also keep up to date with quality standards for manufacturing.
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