Currently, there are 5.9 million jobs available in the consumer non-durable industry. The consumer non-durable industry is an essential aspect of the global economy. The sector offers many job opportunities across various sectors. Employers expect many positions in this sector to grow by 9% to 33% before 2030.
Overview of the Consumer Non-Durables Job Market
The consumer non-durables job market has many roles across all sectors. They include food and beverage production, beauty care product manufacturing, and others. The industry manufactures and produces products that people use up quickly.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, millions of people are employed yearly by the consumer non-durables sector. In May 2022, the sector provided jobs to 2.2 million workers in the United States. Industry profile data from the BLS show that the beverage sector recruited 1,080 food processing workers in February 2023. The cosmetics sector alone employs over 1 million people.
The sector has experienced growth in recent years. Recent growth has created new job opportunities, from expert manufacturers to machine operators. The industry evolves, adopts new technologies, and produces more products for its customers.
10 Most Common and Available Jobs in Consumer Non-Durables
Consumer non-durables companies have many job opportunities due to the high demand for products in the sector.
Here are the 10 most common and available jobs in the industry.
Quality control inspector is one of the best-paying jobs in consumer non-durables. They control inspectors monitor and inspect products and also ensure they meet the established standards and specifications. They also examine goods and materials for defects, measure and test products, and test inspection results.
They require a range of skills, which include non-conformance reporting, root cause analysis, calibration, auditing, mechanical ability, and physical strength. Many employees require soft skills like attention to detail, communication, and compliance knowledge.
A quality control inspector must possess a minimum of a high school diploma. Some employers require certification from professional organizations like the American Society for Quality. Companies also provide on-the-job training. CareerExplorer, predicts a 9.7% growth in this role. There are 100,535 active job openings for quality control specialists in the United States.
2. Research and Development (R&D) Scientist
Average Annual Salary: $90, 278
Research and development scientists develop new products and improve existing ones. They also ensure that products meet safety and quality standards. Additionally, they study consumer preferences and market trends.
To succeed as an R&D scientist, you must have data analysis, problem-solving, communication, project management, creativity and innovation, and documentation skills. Employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in chemistry, biology, or engineering.
The job outlook for research and development scientists is positive. It has a growth rate of 5% from 2029 to 2039. There are 129,803 active research and development scientist job openings in the US.
3. Supply Chain Manager
Average Annual Salary: $84,000
Supply chain managers oversee the movement of products from suppliers to customers. They manage inventory and distribution to ensure that products get to consumers on time.
To be a successful supply chain manager, you must have excellent negotiation skills and know how to get quality raw materials and dependable logistics partners. You also need knowledge of production procedures and logical organization of thoughts.
A supply chain manager must possess a bachelor’s degree in any relevant field. Some employers request relevant work experience. The job outlook is positive and will grow by 28% from 2020 to 2030. There are 8,716 Supply Chain Management jobs available in the United States
4. Manufacturing Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $83,833
Manufacturing engineers maintain, develop, and operate production equipment to ensure the lines are safe, effective, and efficient. They also improve, and maintain high levels of quality, design new products, and modify existing ones.
A manufacturing engineer must know manufacturing processes and techniques and can design and develop manufacturing systems. They must also have proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software.
To get this job, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Some employees require relevant years of experience. The job growth outlook is positive and has a growth rate of 4.12% annually. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 22,400 openings for manufacturing engineers annually.
The production manager oversees the production process, coordinates all activities, and creates a budget. They ensure enough resources are available and organize the manufacturing process to ensure the goods are ready on time.
Production managers possess the ability to manage and coordinate production activities with good communication skills to lead teams. Most production managers hold a bachelor’s degree. Some employers may prefer an MBA or other degrees. Experience as a business manager or in management in a related field will give you an edge.
The job outlook for production managers is positive, with a growth rate of 5%. According to Glassdoor, there are 12,509 job openings for production managers in the United States.
6. Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $70,060
Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that products comply with government regulations and industry standards. They obtain regulatory approval for products and maintain compliance with and communication with regulatory agencies.
A regulatory affairs specialist require regulatory knowledge, legal knowledge, writing, persuasion, leadership, and decision-making skills. Regulatory affairs specialists must possess a bachelor’s degree in biology or chemistry. Employers also require certifications, such as the Regulatory Affairs Certification, from professional institutions.
The job outlook for this role is positive and has a growth rate of 5% from 2020 to 2030. There are 5,135 job openings for regulatory affairs specialists in the United States.
7. Brand Manager
Average Annual Salary: $68,814
Brand managers develop and execute marketing strategies to promote their company’s products. They oversee marketing and ensure all branding is consistent across all channels.
Skills for brand managers include lateral thinking and creativity, customer relationship management, versatility and adaptability, and competitive analysis.
A brand manager must possess a bachelor’s degree in marketing or any related field. Some employers request certifications like Certified Brand Manager from any professional institution. The job outlook for this role is positive, with a growth forecast of 10% from 2020 to 2030. There are 48,000 openings for this role in the US.
8 Sales Representative
Average Annual Salary: $60,000
Sales representatives in consumer non-durables goods sell products and establish good relationships with clients. They promote their company’s products and reach out to new prospects.
They must possess communication and marketing skills, active listening, teamwork and collaboration, rapport-building, and social perceptiveness abilities.
A sales representative must have a bachelor’s degree in marketing or sales. Certifications in any related field will boost your chances. The job growth outlook for this role is 2% from 2020 to 2030. According to BLS, 10,401 sales representative jobs are available in the US.
9 Customer Service Representative
Average Annual Salary: $56,440
Customer service representatives handle customer inquiries, complaints, and orders. They provide information about products and services, process returns or exchanges, and solve billing issues.
A customer service rep must possess product knowledge, empathy, quick thinking and adaptability, and communication skills. Employers require a minimum high school diploma for this role.
The customer service representative job has a positive outlook and a growth rate of 5% from 2020 to 2030. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts about 389,400 openings for this role annually.
A packaging operator ensure that finished products are packaged according to company and industry standards. They also prepare goods for distribution and handle the machines used in operations.
They must know packaging materials and techniques, project management skills to manage timelines and budgets, and communication abilities.
Most packaging operators possess a high school diploma. Some employers require a bachelor’s or associate’s degree with working experience. Additionally, companies offer hands-on training. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the packaging operator role will decline by 3% from 2020 to 2030. There are 13,539 jobs available for this position in the US.
Other jobs available in Basic Consumer Non-Durables
Here are 5 other jobs available in the consumer non-durables industry. Most of them are entry-level jobs, and they include:
Delivery drivers transport goods from one location to another. They also work for different companies, which include retail stores, restaurants, and courier services.
A delivery driver must have a driving license and a clean driving history. They must possess knowledge of safe and efficient driving practices and be familiar with car maintenance.
Some employers require a high school diploma. Employees also receive on-the-job training for one month. The job outlook is positive, with a growth rate of 5% from 2020 to 2030. There are 187,334 delivery driver jobs available in the United States.
2. Warehouse Worker
Average Annual Salary: $30,850
Warehouse workers receive and ship goods in a warehouse setting. They also manage inventory and maintain a clean and organized workspace. They must have physical stamina, attention to detail, interpersonal skills, forklift experience, and communication abilities.
A warehouse worker must not possess any educational qualifications. This job is in high demand and has a positive growth rate of 6% from 2021 to 2031. There are 129,246 warehouse worker jobs available in the US.
3. Janitor
Average Annual Salary: $27,000
Janitors in the consumer non-durable industry clean and maintain facilities, which include restrooms and production sections. A janitor must be physically fit and have eyes for details, knowledge of cleaning procedures and supplies, and repair and maintenance skills.
You do not need any educational qualifications for this role. The job outlook is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a growth rate of 4% from 2020 to 2030. There are 23,722 job openings for Janitors in the United States.
4. Store Clerk
Average Annual Salary: $26,313
Store clerks assist customers, stock shelves, and operate the cash register. They also welcome customers, answer their questions about products, and keep the store clean and organized.
A store clerk must be good at customer service and communication and have an eye for details. They must also have basic math skills for cash handling and inventory management.
Employers do not require any educational qualifications. The job outlook is positive, with a 3% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 594,400 openings for store clerks annually.
A food service worker prepares and serve food in different settings, like restaurants, cafeterias, and hospitals. They also clean and maintain kitchen equipment.
They possess attention to detail, physical stamina, resilience skills, kitchen safety, food preparation, food handling safety, and sanitation knowledge.
Food service workers must have a high school diploma. The job outlook for this role is positive. It will grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030. There are 323,000 food service jobs available in the United States.
What is the Job Description of a Consumer Non-Durables Professional?
Consumer non-durables workers play important roles in the production sector. Their primary responsibility is to manage, market, and sell products like food, drinks, and personal care products.
Other 5 key roles workers in this industry play include:
1. Conduct market research
Consumer non-durables conduct market research to understand consumer needs and preferences. They also identify trends and stay updated on developments in the industry. Employees use this data to improve their companies.
2. Negotiate with retailers
Workers in this industry negotiate with retailers to promote and sell their products. They do this to secure a space on store shelves or online platforms to display their goods.
3. Develop packaging and labeling
Consumer non-durables workers develop packaging plans for their products. It is a major part of their job description. Packaging determines if customers will buy their goods.
4. Develop marketing and sales strategies
Workers in consumer non-durables develop marketing plans as part of their jobs. Market research helps them develop marketing strategies to sell their products. They create strategies that will help them sell their products faster.
5. Monitor competition
Consumer non-durables workers keep themselves up-to-date with trends. It allows them to develop strategies to outdo their competitors.
How to Get a Job in Consumer Non-Durables Industry?
As we already know, there are many career paths in consumer non-durables sector. It has various job opportunities and you need to understand the sector and its criteria to get a job.
5 key steps to land a job in the consumer non-durables sector
1. Get an education
Educational qualifications are the foundation of any career. You should have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Many roles in the consumer non-durables industry require a bachelor’s degree or more. Pursue higher education and increase your job prospects.
2. Obtain a degree
Get a degree relevant to your field of interest. If you want a supply chain management role, acquire a degree in marketing, economics, or supply chain management. Employers in this sector prefer candidates with a degree in a related field.
3. Gain experience
There are many opportunities to gain experience in the consumer non-durables industry. Take up internships, entry-level positions, or volunteer work. These will help you boost your resume and give you valuable experience.
4. Build a portfolio
Showcase your work or any projects related to the consumer non-durables industry. Your portfolio will make you attractive to employers.
5. Apply for a job
Apply for multiple jobs that match your skills and interest. It might not be your desired job, but it will build your portfolio. Doing this will increase your chances of getting hired.
How to get an entry-level job in consumer non-durables?
Consumer non-durables is a good place to build a career. Getting an entry-level job is a way to start up your career in the industry. Entry-level jobs also pay well irrespective of the company.
Here are 5 steps that will increase your chances of getting a role in the consumer non-durables sector:
1. Research the industry
Learn about the consumer non-durables industry before you apply for a job. Know the different types of products, stakeholders, and most recent trends in the industry.
2. Identify companies of interest
Identify companies in the consumer non-durables industry that align with your interests and career goals. You can achieve this by doing thorough research.
3. Personalize your CV/Resume
Dust your resume and prepare a cover letter. Edit it to fit the company and role you desire. Highlight your education, certifications, and skills. It will give you a better chance of getting an interview.
4. Network
Reach experts in the industry through social media or any other means. You can gain insight into the industry and learn about new job opportunities.
5. Apply for entry-level positions
Apply for entry-level positions that match your interests, skills, and qualifications. Understand that you can start from an entry-level role and get to the top.
Additional tips for finding available jobs in consumer non-durables
There are many other strategies you can employ to land a good role in the consumer non-durable industry.
Here are additional 3 tips for finding available jobs in the consumer non-durables sector:
1. Work on your skills
You need technical and packaging skills in the consumer non-durables industry. Take relevant classes and also acquire certifications to demonstrate your knowledge and talents.
2. Apply for internships
Many consumer non-durable companies have internship positions. Take up one of these positions. It is a means to get industry experience and develop connections. You might be fully employed through an internship if you do well.
3. Research and evaluate salaries and benefits
Know the salary and benefits packages of your desired company. Compare salaries with Payscale to get an idea of the value of your job. You need to evaluate the benefits and bonuses offered by your employer.
What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Consumer Non-Durables Jobs?
Professionals in the consumer non-durables industry have a wide range of qualifications.
Education requirements and qualifications necessary for the consumer non-durables sector
1. Educational Requirements
Bachelors Degree
A bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or any related field is required. Many jobs in this sector demand significant knowledge of packaging solutions and technology.
High School Diploma
Entry-level positions require a high school diploma. It is perfect for people starting in this field. In contrast, mid-level and high-level positions require tertiary education.
2. Training and Certifications
A degree is not always needed. Some employers require certificates. Certifications demonstrate your expertise to prospects. You need to choose a certification program that fits your career path.
Here are some training and certifications you can acquire for some roles in the consumer non-durable sector:
Quality assurance training
The American Society for Quality offers training and certificates in quality auditing, management, and organizational excellence.
Supply chain management training
The American Production and Inventory Control Society offers a certification course for supply chain professionals. UCLA Extension offers a Supply Chain Management Certificate Program. APICS also offers certification in production and inventory management.
Packaging technology
The Institute of Packaging Professionals (IOPP) offers the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology. They offer training and certification in packaging science.
Know the job you want and go for training to get you a position in this industry faster. Take certificate training online and acquire your certificate.
Where Do I Find Consumer Non-Durables Jobs?
You can find vacant positions for consumer non-durables roles on different job boards. However, there are job boards that list many roles specific to consumer non-durables.
5 important places to find and apply for consumer non-durable jobs
1. Glassdoor
Glassdoor is a job listing website that offers details on pay, employer evaluations, and interview questions. You can find consumer non-durable jobs and read business reviews to understand the organization.
2. CareerBuilder
Many jobs in various sectors are on this site. You can search for your desired role by entering your position, location, and other keywords that can help.
3. Monster
Monster provides different job ads across industries, including consumer non-durables. You can find jobs using filters such as location, pay, job type, and others.
4. SimplyHired
SimplyHired is a job search engine that collects job postings from several job boards and business websites. You can search for consumer non-durable jobs on SimplyHired using keywords and location filters.
5. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a professional networking site with many job listings in various industries, including consumer non-durables. Create a professional-looking profile on LinkedIn and search for relevant jobs.
What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Consumer Non-Durables?
To get a job in the consumer non-durables industry, you must possess skills related to this sector.
5 essential skills you need to land a job in consumer non-durables
1. Sales and Marketing Skills
Employers in the consumer non-durables industry require employees to have strong sales and marketing skills. Candidate must also be able to analyze market trends and build relationships with clients. You can acquire this skill by working as an intern or going for training in sales and marketing.
2. Communication Skills
You must have strong communication skills for any job in the consumer non-durables industry. Workers must communicate effectively with clients and colleagues. This skill can be acquired by listening actively and following instructions.
3. Time Management Skills
Many jobs in the consumer non-durables industry require employees to be able to manage multiple projects. Employees must know how to set priorities and make time management a critical skill. You can acquire this skill by setting goals and smashing them on time. When you keep it up, it becomes a part of you.
4. Attention to Detail
Consumer non-durable companies operate in a fast-paced environment. It makes small details a big difference. Employees with keen eyes are valuable. You can acquire this skill by being intentional and conscious about it. Make use of checklists to find out what is missing and slow down. Never hurry to deliver a project without looking at it twice.
5. Teamwork
Companies in the consumer non-durables industry require employees to work as a team. You must have this skill because teamwork boosts productivity. Employees can acquire it by working with others in an internship setting. It makes work faster.
What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Consumer Non-Durables?
Every industry faces challenges, and the consumer’s non-durables are no exception. What are some of the factors that affect the availability of jobs in this sector?
Here are 5 critical factors affecting the availability of jobs in the consumer non-durables sector.
1. Reduction in demand for services
Reduction in customers’ demands affects job availability. It can lead to a reduction in the demand for services. Companies suffer financial setbacks and reduce their hiring rates when there is low demand.
2. Government regulations
Government regulations can affect job availability in the sector. Some modulations can bring more expenses on companies. Many employees can lose their jobs when the company has to spend more money on production. They might not employ new people so that they can keep up with production.
A poor economy affects job availability in the consumers’ non-durable industry. When the economy is poor, consumption will reduce drastically. It reduces the demand for non-durable goods. Sales reduce, and their income suffers. The company has to reduce its workforce and stop employing workers. When the economy is good, there is high demand for products, and companies employ more people to make production faster.
4. Technological advancements
Technology increases productivity. Many machines are now programmed to do what humans do. Robots help companies reduce labor costs. It makes people lose their jobs and opens opportunities for those who can operate these machines.
5 Competition
Intense competition in the market makes companies reduce costs and increase efficiency to remain competitive. It can affect job availability. Pressure from other companies makes industries in this sector reduce their workforce to lower costs.
What are the challenges faced by the consumer non-durable industry?
Consumer non-durable companies face several challenges, which include:
1. Reduction in demand
Consumer demand for non-durable goods can change due to income, trends, and customer preferences. Changes in consumer demand are challenging and sometimes they do not know the number of goods to produce.
2. Cost increment
The cost of production and logistics is sometimes high. When it happens, companies change their prices. It can reduce demand and affect their earnings. For example, if someone buys packaged food for $25 today, the cost increase can make it $40 tomorrow. Consumers who will not be able to afford the new price do not buy. It poses a challenge for non-durable manufacturers.
3. Changing consumer preferences
Consumer preferences for non-durable goods can change quickly and make it difficult for companies to keep up. For example, consumers can switch to eco-friendly or healthy products. It leads to a shift in demand away from traditional products.
4. Supply chain disruptions
The COVID-19 pandemic showed the vulnerability of supply chains in consumer non-durable companies. Global issues can disrupt the distribution and accessibility of raw materials. Disruptions can lead to shortages of raw materials and affect production and profitability.
What are the factors influencing the demand for non-durable consumer goods?
Demand for non-durable consumer goods is influenced by various factors. These factors can make demand high or low which somehow affects the company and its employees.
Here are 5 factors that influence the demand for non-durable consumer goods.
1. Income
Income affects the demand for non-durable consumer goods. People spend more on products when their income is stable or increases. They reduce spending when their income is low, which affects demand.
2. Price
Price affects demand. If the cost of a product increases, the demand for it will decrease. The demand increases when the price decrease.
3. Advertising and marketing
Advertising and marketing influence demand by creating brand awareness. Ads grow consumers’ interest in a product and convince them to buy. The products with the best ads get sold out more quickly.
4. Demographics
Age, gender, and family size affect demand for non-durable consumer goods. For example, families with children buy more food and personal care products than single individuals. The higher their number, the higher the demand.
5. Availability
The availability of non-durable consumer goods affects demand. If a product is out of stock for some time, consumers switch to a substitute product. Some delay their purchase until the product becomes available again.
What are the six most important factors that influence purchases of consumer non-durable goods?
Other factors influence the buying of products in this industry. They influence consumer choices and sales too.
Here are the 6 most important factors that influence purchases of consumer non-durable goods:
1. Quality
Consumers look at the quality of a product before deciding to buy it. They gauge the product’s quality based on packaging and past performance.
2. Brand
Buyers always have a preferred brand that they trust and are loyal to. They buy products from brands they know. Even if the price is high, they purchase it.
3. Packaging
Packaging impacts a consumer’s purchasing decision. Attractive packaging grabs their attention and makes them buy faster.
4. Product Features
Size, weight, and functionality influence a consumer’s decision to buy a product. Consumers prefer products that have additional benefits, like being eco-friendly or organic. It can make them buy faster.
5. Convenience of purchase
Consumers love conveniently purchasing products. It is a solid factor that influences demand. The ease of ordering goods online and getting same-day delivery makes buyers happy. They go for products that sellers can deliver to their doorsteps.
Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Non-Durables?
There are many jobs available in the consumer non-durables industry. Some of these jobs might require a bachelor’s or a higher degree. Entry-level positions are available for those just starting in this industry. You can fit into this industry with the necessary skills and training.
Frequently Asked Questions on How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Non-durables
What is the most common job in Consumer Non-Durables?
The most common jobs in consumer non-durables are food service workers, warehouse workers, and delivery drivers.
What roles are available in consumer non-durables?
Roles available in consumer non-durables are quality control inspectors, sales managers, and marketing managers. Others include supply chain managers, research and development scientists, and manufacturing engineers.
Are there a lot of jobs in consumer non-durables?
Yes, there are lots of jobs in consumer non-durables. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 5.9million jobs were available in this sector as of October 2022.
Are consumer non-durable jobs easy?
Consumer non-durable jobs are generally easy. However, some roles require you to stand up all day, such as packaging and operating machines. It can be physically exhausting.
What is the hardest consumer non-durable job to get?
The hardest jobs in consumer non-durables usually demand more responsibilities and take more time and energy. For example, warehouse clerk.
What are examples of consumer non-durable goods?
Consumer non-durable goods include pet foods, personal care products, medications, office supplies, food, and beverages.
Is a laptop a consumer non-durable good?
Yes, laptops are consumer non-durable goods because they have a short lifespan. They get outdated due to technological advancements and wear and tear and stop working when their lifespan is up.
