Currently, there are 3 million available jobs in the consumer durables job market. The consumer durables is a $2 Trillion industry that hires millions of workers and offers them well-paying jobs.
The consumer durables sector attempts to supply long-lasting goods such as commercial kitchen equipment and construction gear. Due to the high demand for these products, there’s usually a triple effect on the demand for consumer durable workers.
What is the Consumer Durables Sector?
According to Wikipedia, consumer durables are products built to last and meet certain durability standards. Common examples of consumer durables goods are automobiles, furniture, household appliances, and mobile homes.
This contrasts with consumer non-durable items like food and dish soap, as well as consumer services like health care and financial planning. Durable items are typically more costly than non-durable goods.
Overview of the Consumer Durables Job Market
The consumer durables Industry offers a variety of jobs that facilitate trade and commerce. Consumer durables items make up a sizable and significant component of the economy. Over 5.9 million people were employed in consumer durables as of September 2022.
Personal consumption of durable goods in the United States was approximately $2 trillion in February 2023. As a result, there are several prospects and opportunities in this field.
A worker in the consumer durables industry can expect to earn between $60,000 and $100,000 per year. However, this is based on the employee’s amount of experience as well as their level of skill.
10 Most Common and Available Jobs in Consumer Durables
As previously noted, the consumer durables Industry employs about 5 million people. This industry makes a significant contribution to the American economy. Furthermore, the industry has a low barrier to entry due to a great demand for consumer durables workers.
Here are 10 most common and available consumer durables jobs.
Product managers are in charge of overseeing the development and marketing of consumer durables. They might work for manufacturers or retailers. They are usually in charge of recognizing market trends, designing new items, and managing product lines.
Product managers usually have a degree in technical fields such as engineering and computer sciences. Some employers might, however, go with candidates with considerable years of experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 10% increase in job growth for product managers. It will provide 701,000 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Marketing Manager
Average Annual Salary: $132,460
Marketing managers are in charge of planning and implementing the consumer durables marketing strategy. They are usually in charge of creating advertising campaigns, managing social media accounts, and performing market research.
Marketing managers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree. Some employers do not require specific training, but many prefer a marketing or business degree.
The job outlook for the marketing manager role is positive, with a growth rate of 10% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 310,900 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Supply Chain Manager
Average Annual Salary: $77,190
Supply chain managers manage the transportation of consumer durables from producers to retailers or other end users. They may be in charge of logistics, inventory, and transportation.
Supply chain managers usually have a degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or a similar field. They have an excellent understanding of supply chain processes and good knowledge of relevant software.
The job outlook for supply chain managers is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 768,600 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4. Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $67,690
This is a very common job in consumer durables. Sales representatives are in charge of selling consumer durables products to individuals, businesses, and other organizations. They usually work for manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers, and they may locate potential consumers, display products, and negotiate purchases.
Most sales representatives have bachelor’s degrees in business, marketing, economics, or related field. Employers are keener to hire candidates with extensive experience in sales and a thorough understanding of the sales process.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for sales representatives. It will provide 4,418,000 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Store managers are in charge of the day-to-day operations of retail stores that sell consumer durables goods. They could be in charge of hiring and training employees, maintaining inventory, and establishing sales strategy.
You can be employed as a store manager with a High school diploma or, preferably, a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Most employers are looking for candidates with three years of experience in retail, preferably in a managing capacity.
The job outlook for store manager is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 2,061,100 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
6. Technical Support Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $54,760
Technical support specialists help and support customers with technical problems with their consumer durables. They may work for manufacturers or retailers and may be in charge of troubleshooting, software updates, and product support.
Most professionals in this field have bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science or a related field. Employers prefer candidates with at least four years of related experience required.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 8% increase in job growth for technical support specialist. It will provide 838,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
7. Quality Control Inspectors
Average Annual Salary: $41,540
These professionals are in charge of verifying that consumer durables fulfill quality and safety standards. They may examine products throughout the manufacturing process or before shipment to merchants or end users.
Quality Control Inspectors should have at least a high school diploma or GED. Some employers also offer on-the-job training or have previous experience in quality control in their intended industry.
The job outlook for quality control inspector role is positive, with a growth rate of 5% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 520,700 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
8. Customer Service Representative
Average Annual Salary: $35,960
Customers with questions or issues about consumer durables products can contact customer service representatives for assistance and support. Customer service representatives work for manufacturers, distributors, or retailers. They are usually in charge of answering consumer questions, addressing complaints, and giving product information.
There are no strict educational qualifications for customer service representative. These professionals must have Interpersonal and customer service skills. They are also expected to analyze and solve problems easily.
The job outlook for customer service representatives is positive, with a growth rate of 2% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 2,660,300 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
9. Warehouse Associate
Average Annual Salary: $30,110
Warehouse associates work at distribution facilities or warehouses where consumer durables are stored and shipped. They may be responsible for receiving and storing merchandise, picking and packing orders, loading and unloading trucks, etc.
Most warehouse associates have high school diplomas and experience with inventory software. Excellent time management and organizational skills are usually a plus.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 3% increase in job growth for warehouse associates. It will provide 4,784,600 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Retail sales associates work in stores where the general public buys consumer durables products. They are in charge of helping consumers make purchases, giving product information, and processing transactions.
You can work as a retail sales associate without any formal qualifications. But some employers usually prefer candidates with some level of experience. You may be required to complete a Vocational Education and Training (VET) program.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 2% increase in job growth for retail sales associates. It will provide 3,187,200 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
Other jobs available in Basic Consumer Durables
Sales Manager
Human Resource Manager
Administrative Assistance
Media Planner
Account Manager
Most Common and Available Entry-Level Jobs in Consumer Durables
Almost all Consumer Durable companies provide entry-level jobs in various departments/sectors. Furthermore, the Consumer Durable Sector is quite vast and thus requires a large workforce which they prepare for by offering entry-level roles.
5 most common available entry-level positions in consumer durables include the following:
As the name implies, these specialists are in charge of checking and inspecting the quality of manufactured goods in a manufacturing plant. They make certain that the created products fit the standards and have no packaging issues.
Entry-level quality control inspectors should have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Having a bachelor’s or associate degree in quality assurance can expand a quality control inspector’s job opportunities and increase their earning potential.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 8% increase in job growth for quality control inspectors. It will provide 479,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
2. Machine Operator
Average Annual Salary: $38,720
The machine operator job is the most prevalent entry-level role you will come across in consumer durables. Machine operators’ principal responsibilities include operating, monitoring, and maintaining/troubleshooting numerous forms of production gear. They also ensure that the machinery’s components are clean and functional.
As stated above, this is quite a popular role that requires just a few certification courses. Professionals in this field are expected to have a fair knowledge of machine operation.
The job outlook for machine operators is positive, with a growth rate of 1% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 2,876,500 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
3. Equipment Operators
Average Annual Salary: $34,180
Equipment operators can work in any department of the consumer durables industry, whether it be a manufacturing plant or a retail location. These professionals operate various pieces of machinery, such as forklifts, hoists, and cranes.
Typically, a high school degree is not required to get a heavy equipment operator’s job. But it is required to take the training to become skilled in the profession.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 4% increase in job growth for equipment operators. It will provide 463,600 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
4. Picker and Packer
Average Annual Salary: $34,180
Because they play an important position in their company, this professional’s job needs them to undertake a number of obligations. Unloading products from trucks, storing them according to the category, and then packaging them for delivery is one of their responsibilities.
The job outlook for pickers/packers is positive, with a growth rate of 4% over the next ten years. BLS projects it will produce 3,810,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
This entry-level role is also quite common in the manufacturing department of consumer durables. Production workers/operators are responsible for the quality of the commodities or products in production lines as well as their assembly.
Production work is an entry-level role that requires just a high school diploma/GED. Previous experience working in a factory is beneficial and will definitely give you an edge when job hunting.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 4% increase in job growth for production workers. It will provide 9,856,800 job opportunities across the United States from 2021 to 2031.
What is the Job Description of a Consumer Durables Professional?
Professionals in Consumer Durables may operate in a variety of industries, including electronics, home appliances, furniture, and automobiles. The job description may differ depending on the company and its position. However, to be effective in their roles, consumer durables professionals must have excellent leadership, communication, and analytical abilities.
Here are common job descriptions of Consumer Durable professionals.
Creating and implementing sales and marketing strategies for consumer durables.
Market research and analysis to uncover new prospects and product development ideas.
Handling the manufacturing and quality control processes for consumer durables.
Inventory management and supply chain logistics for consumer durables.
Working with suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers to ensure the efficient and effective distribution of consumer durables.
Carrying out Product testing and quality assurance to guarantee that products fulfill industry standards and laws.
Leading a professional team and working with other divisions within the corporation to achieve business objectives.
Keeping current on industry trends, competitors, and best practices in order to inform decision-making and strategy creation.
How to Get a Job in Consumer Durables Industry
Getting a job in consumer durables requires some element of perseverance, dedication, and a desire to learn and adapt. You can land some of the best paying jobs in consumer durables with the right mind.
If you want to work in consumer durables, here are some steps you should take:
1. Obtain a degree
Most managerial roles in consumer durables require a bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, you can also look into earning an associate degree that relates to marketing. Having a degree helps you stand out during the job recruitment process.
2. Identify your skills and strengths
Identify your skills and strengths that are relevant to the consumer durables Industry. This industry requires skills such as sales, marketing, product development, supply chain management, customer service, and technical expertise.
3. Make the needed Research
Begin by investigating the consumer durables market to learn about the various firms, products, and job prospects. Search for trends and insights that will help you understand the demands and requirements of the market.
4. Personalize Your Resume and Cover Letter
Customize your CV and cover letter for the job you’re looking for. Emphasize your relevant abilities and experience and explain how they relate to the job criteria. For instance, if you have held a marketing role in a previous organization, you should highlight valuable contributions you made to such organizations.
5. Network
Networking is an important element of seeking a job in any field. Attend industry conferences, join professional groups, and communicate with industry professionals on social media or by email.
When you’ve found job openings that match your skills and experience, apply for them. Send your CV and cover letter to the recruiting manager or through the company’s online application site.
How to get an entry-level job in consumer durables
There are thousands of available roles in consumer durables. This Industry welcomes entry-level candidates. Some consumer durables companies go as far as offering on-job training to entry-level workers.
Here is a guideline to land your first entry-level role in Consumer Durables
1. Education
Most entry-level roles in the consumer durables market require a high school diploma. A college degree or vocational training, on the other hand, can help you stand out from other applicants. It also offers you a more substantial knowledge base in your subject of interest.
2. Acquire Experience
Internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level opportunities are available at many consumer durables companies for anyone interested in the field. This will provide you with practical experience and allow you to hone vital skills such as problem-solving and customer service.
3. Acquire Technical Skills
Jobs in consumer durables frequently involve technical knowledge, such as knowing how to diagnose appliances or install electronics. Try attending courses or participating in certification programs to assist you in building these technical abilities.
4. Enhance your soft skills
Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and time management are also required for careers in consumer durables. Consider taking courses or attending workshops to hone these skills. Alternatively, you can find opportunities to put them into practice in your current job.
5. Get referrals through networking
Attending industry events and joining professional groups is one of the easiest ways to get a referral. More so, these activities help you obtain industry insights and learn more about consumer durables.
What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Consumer Durables Jobs?
Most entry-level roles in consumer durables do not necessitate a bachelor’s degree. However, educational qualifications may differ depending on the department.
Education
The minimum educational qualification for entry-level jobs might include the following:
A high school diploma or a college degree
Most entry-level jobs in consumer non-durables require at least a high school diploma or a college degree. However, just a few roles require a college degree.
University Degree
Departments like marketing, sales, and supply chain require university degrees, even for entry-level positions. However, you can get a job in the listed sector with a college degree.
Trade School
Jobs such as machine operators and pickers/packers require technical skills and experience rather than academic credentials. Recruiters look for candidates with trade school degrees for these positions.
Certification and Training
Generally, the consumer durables market offers a variety of training and certification programs that can help you improve your skills. Research your options and choose the programs that best match your career objectives and interests.
Here are some Consumer Durables Training options for you
National Appliance Service Technician Certification (NASTeC)
Certified Electronics Technician (CET)
Furniture Repair and Restoration Certification (FURN).
Customer Service Training and Certification
Manufacturer-Specific Training.
Where Do I Find Consumer Durables Jobs?
There are numerous jobs available in the consumer durables sector. With the necessary skills and qualifications, you can land some of these available jobs.
5 industry-specific platforms to land available consumer durables job
1. Consumer Technology Association (CTA)
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) is a trade association that represents the consumer technology industry. The organization posts job openings in the consumer durables market for a variety of positions such as sales, marketing, engineering, and more.
2. Consumer Goods Forum (CGF)
The Consumer Goods Federation (CGF) is a global industrial network that represents the consumer products industry. The company posts job openings in the consumer durables industry for positions such as operations, supply chain, marketing, and more.
3. Glassdoor
Glassdoor is another prominent job search tool that offers employer reviews, salary statistics, and interview tips. The website can be used to find job openings in the consumer durables industry.
4. Monster
Monster is a job search engine that displays job openings in a variety of industries, including consumer durables. You can search for jobs on this platform area, pay, experience level, and other criteria.
5. CareerBuilder
This is another job search site that lists job openings in many areas, including consumer durables. Just like Monster, this platform allows you can search for jobs area, salaries, and experience levels.
What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Consumer Durables?
Some skills can help you land a career in the consumer durables market. Professionals with strong technical, communication and interpersonal abilities are in high demand in the consumer durables market.
Here are some of the Skills Employers seek in Consumer Durables job applicants.
1. Sales and Marketing Skills
To be successful in consumer durables industry roles, you must be able to sell things effectively. You should be familiar with sales and marketing tactics, as well as be able to create and implement sales programs.
2. Customer Service Skills
In the consumer durables market, providing outstanding customer service is critical. You should have good verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to successfully resolve customer problems.
3. Teamwork
Jobs in the consumer durables market frequently need you to work in groups. You should be able to collaborate with others, communicate effectively, and contribute to the success of the team.
4. Analytical Skills
Assessing market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data is a must for careers in the consumer durables industry. You must be able to analyze and comprehend data so that you can make sound business judgments.
5. Time Management Skills
Working in the consumer durables market necessitates excellent time management. You should be able to prioritize activities, meet deadlines, and work on many projects at the same time.
What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Consumer Durables?
While there is a great demand for consumer durable workers, there are certain factors that may threaten some high demands
5 factors affecting the availability of jobs in consumer durables
1. Economic situation
The status of the economy as a whole can have an impact on the availability of jobs in the consumer durables business. When the economy is in a slump, individuals tend to spend less on big-ticket products like appliances and automobiles. Invariably, this leads to lower demand for consumer durables jobs.
2. Technological advances
Technology breakthroughs can have a substantial impact on the consumer durables market. Certain jobs may become obsolete when new technologies arise, while others may demand different skill sets. For instance, as more vehicles become electric, jobs associated with traditional combustion engines may decline.
3. Globalization
The consumer durables business is becoming increasingly globalized, with many products manufactured in other countries. This may have an influence on job availability in countries such as the US, where some jobs may be outsourced to lower-cost countries.
4. Customers’ preference
Customer preferences can also affect the availability of jobs in the consumer durables business. For example, if people avoid purchasing certain types of items, such as gas-guzzling vehicles or appliances with high energy consumption, demand for specific types of jobs in the industry may fall.
This can also have an impact on the availability of jobs in consumer durables. Regulations governing energy efficiency or emissions, for example, might influence the types of items manufactured and sold. This, in turn, influences the types of jobs available in consumer durables.
What are the challenges faced by the consumer durables industry?
Some of the challenges faced by the consumer durables industry are changing consumer demands, globalization, and regulatory pressure. Irrespective of these challenges, the consumer industry continues to thrive.
Five of the challenges faced by the consumer durable industry include:
1. Changing Consumer Demands
consumer durables companies must be consumer-focused nowadays. Demand is prone to dramatic fluctuations. For instance, consumer preferences have shifted dramatically in recent years as demand turns toward healthier and more sustainable solutions. The profitability of any organization in This Market is strongly contingent on how well these organizations respond to changing consumer expectations.
2. Shrinking Operating Margins
As a result of global competition, consumer durables companies must satisfy worldwide price points. This adds to the strain on manufacturers to offer high-quality products while also finding creative methods to minimize costs.
3. Compliance and Regulatory Pressures
The worldwide regulatory landscape is ever-changing. consumer durables companies are required to meet international compliance and standards. This becomes a factor as enterprises rely on the global supply network to combat declining operating margins.
4. Intense Competition
The consumer durables industry is highly competitive, and companies need to constantly innovate and offer new products to stay ahead of their competitors.
5. Price Sensitivity
Consumers are often price-sensitive when it comes to purchasing consumer durables goods. Consumer durables companies need to offer products at competitive prices to stay in the market.
What are the factors influencing the demand for consumer durables goods?
Some of the factors that influence the demand for consumer durables goods are product price, consumer preference, and customers’ income.
Five of the factors influencing the demand for Durable Goods include:
1. Price of Product
The price has the greatest influence on a consumer durables product. In general, there is a clear relationship between a good’s price and its demand. Higher prices reduce demand, while lower prices increase demand. This is due to consumer satisfaction levels. If people cannot afford your product, there will be little demand for it.
2. Tastes and Preferences
Customer likes and preferences have a direct impact on the demand for consumer durables goods. Sadly, preferences within a market might shift for a variety of reasons. Some of these causes may be internal, but others may be extrinsic. This is especially true in the consumer durables goods market, as customers want more from their brands.
3. Consumer Income
In general, the more money a person has, the more likely they are to spend it and buy more. Wealthier groups not only purchase more frequently, but they also want higher-quality, more expensive consumer durables goods.
4. Number of Consumers in the Market
In this situation, demand is measured by the number of people who purchase a specific consumer durables product. As a result, the bigger the number of consumers available, the greater the demand.
5. Customer Expectations
In the consumer durables industry, it is difficult to forecast consumers’ expectations. Generally, looking at prior data makes predicting what might happen in the future lot easier. Several factors can have an impact on consumer expectations. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, customers suspended the purchase of durable products like kitchen appliances and motor vehicles.
What are the six most important factors that influence purchases of consumer durables goods?
A consumer’s decision to acquire durable products can be influenced by a number of factors, including the item’s price, quality, and brand reputation.
Here are six of the most important factors that can have a significant impact on a consumer’s purchasing decision:
1. Price
One of the most important elements that buyers examine when acquiring durable goods is the cost of the product. To judge the worth of a product, consumers frequently compare its price to the prices of other similar products on the market.
2. Quality
Customers are also worried about the goods they are purchasing. People choose things that are long-lasting, dependable, and have a high reputation for quality.
3. Brand Reputation
A brand’s reputation can also have a big impact on a consumer’s purchasing choice. Customers are more likely to buy products from well-known and trusted brands. This is because they have faith in the product’s quality and the company behind it.
4. Product Features
Customers are also interested in the product’s features and benefits. They seek items with attributes they require, such as ease of use, performance, and versatility.
5. Customer Reviews
Customer reviews can also be an important component in a consumer’s choice to purchase a product. Customers frequently examine internet reviews to learn how other consumers have rated the product and whether it fits their expectations.
Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Durables?
The consumer durables job market is quite robust. Numerous jobs are available in this industry. Admittedly, the number of available jobs in consumer durables is determined by a variety of factors. However, you can land one of these available jobs with the necessary skillsets.
FAQs on How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Durables?
What is the most common job in consumer durables?
The most common job in consumer durables is sales representative. Other common jobs in this sector are product managers, marketing specialists, and customer service representatives.
What roles are available in consumer durables?
Some available roles in consumer durables are product designer, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and supply chain management.
Are there a lot of jobs in consumer durables?
Yes, there are many jobs available in the consumer durables industry. The industry includes a wide range of products, from appliances to electronics to furniture, and each product requires a diverse set of skills and expertise.
Are consumer durables jobs easy?
Generally, consumer durables jobs are easy. However, the ease of work in consumer durables is determined by the exact position and the individual’s experience and skill set. Certain positions may be more physically demanding or necessitate a higher level of technical knowledge.
What is the hardest consumer durables job to get?
Marketing or product development roles are some of the hardest consumer durables jobs.
What are examples of consumer durables goods?
Examples of consumer durables goods are automobiles, furniture, and household appliance.
Is a laptop a consumer non-durable good?
No, a laptop is not a non-durable good. This is because laptops are built to survive for many years with proper care and maintenance.
