What do you do as a production technologist?
When a new smartphone is announced, fans eagerly await the launch for months. However, some preparations have to be made before the time comes. Because every product also requires a new production system. Your job as a production technologist is to build one. To do this, you first talk to the development and engineering team that has drawn up the plans and concepts. Based on your briefing, you will develop the prototype of the new production system and find out which production process is best. You will carry out the necessary calculations on the PC. You then check the material stocks. Is everything you need for production in stock? Then you can finally get started: The new production system is assembled. As a production technologist, you are on site and supervise the assembly. Things then get exciting in the test phase. You programme computers and machines and complete the first product sample. Is there anything to optimise in the production process? In this pilot phase, not even the smallest weak point escapes your attention and you always have an idea for improving production. Your creativity and concentration are constantly challenged, because every product and every production process is different! If everything fits, series production can begin. If not, you will make the necessary adjustments. Thanks to the knowledge gained from your dual training in production technology, this is no problem for you.
Where are you needed?
Versatility is at the centre of your dual training in production technology. This also applies to your career options. Depending on the project status, you will either work in the office on a PC, in the production hall or in the laboratory on product development. Customer appointments are also on the programme. So you won’t be bored. You can apply your knowledge in a wide variety of areas: from the development department to series production and support. Typical areas of work are assembly technology, production technology and plant engineering. After completing your training as a production technologist, you will have access to all sectors related to industrial production. Wherever machines or parts for machines are manufactured, you will be needed as an optimiser.
What should you bring with you?
As a production technologist, you will have a varied job. That’s why it’s ideal if you have a wide range of skills. In industry, everything revolves around machines and robots. That’s why technical understanding is required. When talking to customers, you need a good sense of how to translate wishes and ideas into construction plans and sketches. In addition to good communication skills, creativity is also required, as this is the only way to find the right solution. Most companies are looking for trainees with at least an intermediate school leaving certificate or A-levels. You can improve your chances when applying by having already completed your school internship or a voluntary internship in a relevant company. Hobbies with a technical connection, such as helping neighbours in a bicycle workshop or holiday jobs in production, show that you are interested in technology and already have experience.
Your apprenticeship at a glance
- 3 years
- Theory at vocational school, practice at the training company
- Training content from mechanics to production technology and IT through to project management
- After your apprenticeship, you can continue your education in various directions. One possible route is further training in process management for production technology. If you would like to swap the factory floor for a lecture theatre, a degree in production technology is a worthwhile option to further your professional development.