What Does a Production Clerk Do?

The role of a Production Clerk encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities that support the smooth operation of manufacturing processes. This position acts as a linchpin in coordinating various tasks, from maintaining records and inventory to scheduling and ensuring the timely procurement of materials. By efficiently managing data and facilitating communication between departments, the Production Clerk ensures that production targets are met without compromising on quality. Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to organize vast amounts of information make them an indispensable part of the manufacturing team, contributing to the overall productivity and efficiency of the operation.

Production Clerk Job Duties

• Compile and record production data from documents such as work orders, product specifications, and individual worker production sheets, following prescribed recording procedures and using different systems of recording.
• Calculate factors such as types and quantities of items produced, materials used, amount of scrap, frequency of defects, and worker and department production rates, using a computer or calculator.
• Write production reports based on data compiled, tabulated, and computed, following prescribed formats, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in reporting.
• Maintain files of documents used and prepared, adhering to the company’s document management system, ensuring easy access and retrieval of production records and reports.
• Coordinate with warehouse, quality control, and production staff to ensure the smooth flow of materials and information across departments, facilitating efficient production processes.
• Monitor and order materials, supplies, and equipment to maintain inventory levels and ensure uninterrupted production, coordinating with suppliers and internal procurement teams.
• Arrange for the repair and routine maintenance of production equipment, liaising with maintenance staff and external service providers to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules.
• Conduct periodic audits of production processes and inventory to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards, identifying areas for improvement and reporting findings to management.

Production Clerk Salary & Outlook

Factors affecting a Production Clerk’s salary include industry experience, specialized skills in inventory management software, efficiency in data entry, understanding of supply chain operations, and the ability to coordinate with production teams. Proficiency in quality control procedures and knowledge of regulatory compliance can also significantly influence earnings.

• Median Annual Salary: $37,800 ($18.17/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $82,500 ($39.66/hour)

The employment of production clerks is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing manufacturing complexity and the need for efficient production tracking. Production Clerks, essential for inventory management and scheduling, are becoming more vital as companies seek to optimize production processes and reduce waste, aligning with trends towards sustainability and lean manufacturing.

Production Clerk Job Requirements

Education: A Production Clerk typically possesses a diverse educational background, with many holding a High School Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, Associate’s Degree, or Post-Secondary Certificate. Those with a Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree often major in business, logistics, or related fields, gaining knowledge in supply chain management, inventory control, and organizational skills. Courses in mathematics, communication, and computer applications are also beneficial, equipping candidates with the necessary tools for managing production schedules, data entry, and reporting tasks effectively.

Experience: Production Clerks typically enter the role with a background in manufacturing or administrative positions, having honed skills in inventory management, data entry, and production scheduling. On-the-job training is common, allowing newcomers to adapt to specific software and procedural nuances of their employers. Many have progressed from roles that demanded meticulous attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure. Training programs focusing on lean manufacturing, quality control, and supply chain logistics also contribute to the skill set of successful Production Clerks, equipping them with the expertise needed to efficiently support production processes and team coordination.

Certifications & Licenses: No specific certifications or licenses are typically required for the job of a Production Clerk.

Production Clerk Skills

Inventory Management: Tracking and organizing product components efficiently is crucial for smooth production processes, avoiding delays due to material shortages. Production Clerks play a vital role in maintaining optimal inventory levels, which helps in minimizing waste and reducing costs associated with overstocking or emergency procurement.

Production Scheduling: Coordinating the sequence of operations and resource allocation ensures timely production and delivery of products. It involves detailed planning and adjusting production schedules to meet deadlines and optimize workflow, impacting a Production Clerk’s ability to maintain productivity and reduce downtime.

Quality Control: Examining products during various stages of the production process to ensure they meet established standards of quality and consistency is a critical responsibility. Production Clerks need a keen eye for detail to document and communicate any deviations from quality norms, ensuring corrective measures are promptly implemented.

Supply Chain Coordination: Managing the flow of materials from suppliers to production lines is essential for uninterrupted manufacturing processes. It requires meticulous attention to detail in tracking inventory levels, placing timely orders, and coordinating with suppliers and internal departments to ensure a seamless operation.

Data Entry: Inputting information into databases or production systems with accuracy and speed is crucial. Production Clerks must track and update inventory levels, production schedules, and material orders efficiently, requiring adaptability to different software platforms and contributing to the production process’s efficiency and reliability.

Workflow Optimization: Analyzing current workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing improvements are necessary for enhancing productivity and operational efficiency. Production Clerks coordinate and streamline production processes to ensure tasks are completed timely while minimizing resource wastage.

Production Clerk Work Environment

A Production Clerk typically operates within a manufacturing or warehouse setting, where the ambiance is defined by the hum of machinery and the constant movement of materials. Their workspace is often a blend of office and production floor, equipped with standard office tools alongside specialized software for inventory and production tracking.

Work hours can extend beyond the traditional nine-to-five, especially in facilities that operate around the clock, requiring shifts that may include evenings, weekends, or holidays. The dress code leans towards practicality, with safety gear being paramount in areas where production machinery is operated.

The environment fosters a team-oriented culture, where collaboration with production staff, supervisors, and other departments is frequent. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the pace is steady, aiming to balance efficiency with accuracy. Health and safety protocols are rigorously followed, ensuring a secure workplace. Interaction with others is a daily occurrence, not just within the production team but across various departments, making communication skills valuable.

Advancement Prospects

A Production Clerk, integral to manufacturing and production processes, has several avenues for career advancement. Progression often leads to roles such as Production Supervisor or Manager, where responsibilities expand to overseeing production teams and processes. Achieving such advancement typically requires a deep understanding of production workflows, efficiency optimization, and inventory management.

To ascend to higher positions, a Production Clerk should focus on mastering scheduling and quality control procedures, as these skills are crucial for supervisory roles. Gaining experience in different production areas can also broaden one’s understanding of the entire production cycle, making them a valuable candidate for management positions.

Additionally, demonstrating leadership qualities and the ability to manage team dynamics effectively can set a Production Clerk apart, paving the way for promotion. Emphasizing continuous improvement and innovation within production processes can also highlight a clerk’s potential for higher-level roles.