How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Durables? | Entry-Level Jobs Included

How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Durables? Currently, there are 3 million available jobs in the consumer durables industry. The $2 trillion industry hires millions of workers and offers them well-paying jobs.

The consumer durables sector aims to provide durable goods, such as commercial kitchen equipment and machinery for the construction industry. The consumer durables industry is responsible for manufacturing several durable goods, including tools and equipment such as cars, boats, trucks, rim brakes, or tires.

What is the Consumer Durables Sector?

Consumer durables refer to products designed to endure and meet various durability standards. Consumer non-durables are a category of consumer goods that does not have a long lifespan or durability. This includes items such as food, drinks, cigarettes, and cleaning supplies. These items are typically consumed quickly and need to be replaced often.

This is in contrast to consumer non-durable goods, such as food and dish soap, and consumer services, such as health care and financial planning. Durable goods are usually more expensive than non-durable goods. Expenditures on durable goods are usually a sign of economic growth. Consumers usually stop purchasing durables right before a recession.

Overview of the Consumer Durables Job Market

Different consumer durables jobs facilitating trade and commerce are available in the consumer durable industry. The job profile in the consumer durable sector explains the average salaries for those who hold a position within the organization.

In February 2023, personal consumption of durable goods in the US was approximate 2 Trillion dollars. And that means there are plenty of opportunities in this industry.

The non-durable consumer goods business accounts for a sizeable and significant portion of the economy. As of September 2022, the consumer non-durable goods industry was home to more than 5.9 million working positions. There are several other sub-industries that fall under this umbrella, such as the manufacturing of food and beverages, the manufacture of tobacco products, textiles, clothes, and footwear.

The specific sub-industry one works in will impact the salary range one may expect. On the other hand, most employment in the consumer goods sector that is non-durable offer decent income and benefits.

A worker in the consumer non-durable business may expect to make anything from $60,000 to $100,000 per year. However, this is dependent on the employee’s level of experience as well as their level of skill—additionally, the exact industry within which they are employed.

10 Most Common and Available Jobs in Consumer Durables

As stated above, the Consumer Durable Industry is home to over 5 million workers. This industry contributes massively to the US economy. Moreso, the industry has low barrier entry rate; this is because there is a high demand for consumer durable workers

Let’s look at some of the most common and available jobs in consumer durables.

1. Sales Representative

Sales representatives are responsible for selling consumer durables to individuals, businesses, and other organizations. They typically work for manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers and may be responsible for identifying potential customers, demonstrating products, and negotiating sales.

2. Customer Service Representative

Customer service representatives provide assistance and support to customers who have questions or concerns about consumer durables. They may work for manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers and may be responsible for responding to customer inquiries, resolving complaints, and providing product information.

3. Retail Sales Associate

Retail sales associates work in stores that sell consumer durables to the general public. They are responsible for assisting customers with their purchases, providing product information, and processing transactions.

4. Store Manager

Store managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of retail stores that sell consumer durables. They may be responsible for hiring and training staff, managing inventory, and developing sales strategies.

5. Product Manager

Product managers are responsible for overseeing the development and marketing of consumer durables. They may work for manufacturers or retailers and may be responsible for identifying market trends, developing new products, and managing product lines.

6. Supply Chain Manager

Supply chain managers are responsible for overseeing the movement of consumer durables from manufacturers to retailers or other end-users. They may be responsible for managing logistics, inventory, and transportation.

7. Warehouse Associate

Warehouse associates work in distribution centers or warehouses that store and ship consumer durables. They may be responsible for receiving and storing inventory, picking and packing orders, and loading and unloading trucks.

8. Quality Control Inspector

Quality control inspectors are responsible for ensuring that consumer durables meet quality and safety standards. They may be responsible for inspecting products during the manufacturing process or before they are shipped to retailers or end-users.

9. Technical Support Specialist

Technical support specialists provide assistance and support to customers who are experiencing technical problems with their consumer durables. They may work for manufacturers or retailers and may be responsible for troubleshooting issues, providing software updates, and offering product support.

10. Marketing Manager

Marketing managers are responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies for consumer durables. They may work for manufacturers or retailers and may be responsible for developing advertising campaigns, managing social media accounts, and conducting market research.

Other jobs available in Basic Consumer Durables

• Sales Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Products Manager
• Human Resource Manager
• Administrative Assistant

5 Most Common and Available Entry-Level Jobs in Consumer Durables

And all consumer non-durable industries and companies offer entry-level employment opportunities in the departments/sectors mentioned above. Additionally, due to being a vast industry, consumer non-durables require a massive workforce and skilled workers, which they prepare by offering elementary job positions.

Best entry-level jobs in consumer non-durables are:

1. Machine Operator

If you’re planning to work in a consumer non-durables industry manufacturing facility, then “Machine operator” is the most common job position you’ll come across. The primary duties of a machine operator are to operate, monitor, and maintain/troubleshoot various types of production machinery. They also make sure the machinery’s components are clean and functioning properly.

2. Production Worker/Operator

This position is also available in manufacturing facilities. The responsibilities of production workers or operators are to look after the quality of the goods or products in production lines and assemble them.

3. Technicians

Technicians can work in warehouses and manufacturing plants because they use different kinds of machinery, and a technician is responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting them.

4. Quality Controller/Inspector

As the name suggests, these professionals are the one who checks and inspects the quality of produced goods in a manufacturing facility. They ensure that the manufactured products meet the standard and don’t have any packaging problems.

5. Equipment Operators

Because of their role, equipment operators can work in any department or sector of the consumer non-durables industry, be it a production plant or retail outlet. These professionals operate various equipment such as forklifts, hoists, and cranes.

What is the Job Description of a Consumer Durables Professional?

Consumer durables professionals may work in a variety of industries, including electronics, home appliances, furniture, and automobiles. The job description may vary based on the specific product and industry, but generally, consumer durables professionals must have strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills to be successful in their roles. They should also have a deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends to effectively develop and promote consumer durables products.

Some of the key responsibilities of consumer durables professionals may include:

• Developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies to promote consumer durables products.
• Researching and analyzing market trends to identify new opportunities and product development ideas.
• Managing the production and quality control processes for consumer durables products.
• Overseeing inventory management and supply chain logistics for consumer durables products.
• Collaborating with suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers to ensure efficient and effective distribution of consumer durables products.
• Conducting product testing and quality assurance to ensure products meet industry standards and regulations.
• Providing technical support and troubleshooting assistance to customers and other stakeholders.
• Managing a team of professionals and collaborating with other departments within the organization to achieve business goals.
• Maintaining knowledge of industry trends, competitors, and best practices to inform decision-making and strategy development.
• Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for consumer durables products.

How to Get a Job in Consumer Non-Durables Industry?

getting a job in the consumer non-durables industry requires persistence, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Keep honing your skills and knowledge, and stay up to date on industry trends and best practices. With the right mindset and preparation, you can succeed in landing a job in this exciting and dynamic industry.

If you are interested in getting a job in the consumer non-durables industry, here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of success:

1. Research the Industry

Start by researching the consumer non-durables industry to learn about the different types of companies, products, and job opportunities available. Look for trends and insights that can help you understand the industry’s needs and requirements.Identify Your Skills and Experience: Evaluate your skills and experience to determine which jobs in the consumer non-durables industry would be a good fit for you. Consider your education, work experience, and any relevant skills or certifications you may have.

2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight your relevant skills and experience and explain how they align with the job requirements.

3. Network

Networking is a crucial part of finding a job in any industry. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and reach out to industry professionals on social media or through email to make connections.

4. Apply for Jobs

Once you have identified job opportunities that match your skills and experience, apply for them. Submit your resume and cover letter through the company’s online application portal or send them directly to the hiring manager.

5. Prepare for Interviews

If you are selected for an interview, prepare thoroughly by researching the company and practicing common interview questions. Be ready to explain how your skills and experience make you the best fit for the job.

6. Follow Up

After the interview, follow up with the hiring manager to thank them for their time and express your continued interest in the position.

What are the Educational Requirements and Training for Consumer Durables Jobs?

Most entry-level jobs in consumer non-durables don’t require high educational qualifications. However, depending on the department, educational requirements may vary.

Education

The minimum educational qualification for entry-level jobs.

High School Or College Degree

Most entry-level jobs in consumer non-durables require the candidates to have at least a high school or a college degree, though only a few roles want a college degree.

University Degree

Departments such as marketing, sales, and supply chain mandate job seekers to have a university degree even for entry-level roles, but you may get a job in the mentioned department with a college degree.

Trade School

Positions like mechanics, equipment operators, and welders demand technical skills and experience rather than educational qualifications. For these roles, recruiters seek applicants with trade school certificates.

Training

Overall, there are several training and certification programs available in the consumer durables industry that can help you enhance your skills, knowledge, and career prospects. Research your options and select the programs that best align with your career goals and interests.

Below are some basic trainings you need in the consumer durables industry:

1. National Appliance Service Technician Certification (NASTeC)

This program offers certification for appliance service technicians who pass a written exam covering various topics, such as electricity, gas, and refrigeration. NASTeC certification can help you demonstrate your technical skills and increase your job prospects in the appliance repair industry.

2. Certified Electronics Technician (CET)

This certification program is offered by the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) and covers various areas of electronics, including digital and analog circuits, microprocessors, and telecommunications. CET certification can help you demonstrate your technical expertise and credibility as an electronics technician.

3. Furniture Repair and Restoration Certification (FURN)

The FURN certification program is offered by the National Institute of Wood Finishing and covers various aspects of furniture repair and restoration, including finishing, repair, and woodworking. FURN certification can help you demonstrate your expertise and increase your job prospects in the furniture repair and restoration industry.

4. Customer Service Training and Certification

Many organizations offer customer service training and certification programs that can help you develop the skills needed to provide excellent customer service in the consumer durables industry. Examples include the Customer Service Institute of America and the International Customer Service Association.

5. Manufacturer-Specific Training

Many consumer durables manufacturers offer training programs for their products. These programs can help you learn about the features, functions, and maintenance of specific products and increase your job prospects in the industry. Examples include Samsung Tech Institute and GE Appliances Training Center.

Where Do I Find Consumer Durables Jobs?

1. Glassdoor

Glassdoor is another popular job search engine that also provides company reviews, salary information, and interview insights. You can use the website to find job openings in the consumer durable industry.

2. Consumer Technology Association (CTA)

CTA is a trade association that represents the consumer technology industry. The organization provides job listings for various roles in the consumer durable industry, including sales, marketing, engineering, and more.

3. The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF)

The CGF is a global industry network that represents the consumer goods industry. The organization provides job listings for various roles in the consumer durable industry, including operations, supply chain, marketing, and more.

4. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a professional networking website that allows you to connect with recruiters and hiring managers in the consumer durable industry. You can also use the website to search for job openings and apply for jobs.

5. Monster

Monster is a job search engine that lists job openings from various industries, including consumer durables. You can use the website to search for jobs by location, salary, experience level, and more.

6. CareerBuilder

CareerBuilder is another job search engine that lists job openings from various industries, including consumer durables. You can use the website to search for jobs by location, salary, experience level, and more.

What are the Skills Needed to Get a Job in Consumer Durables?

Certain skills can improve your chances of getting a job in the consumer durables industry. The consumer durable industry requires professional with good technical, communication, and interpersonal skills.

1. Here are some of the skills that employers look for in Consumer Durables applicants

1. Technical skills

Consumer durables industry jobs require a good understanding of the technical aspects of the products being manufactured, marketed, or sold. You should be familiar with the different types of consumer durables, how they work, and how they are manufactured.

2. Sales and marketing skills

To succeed in consumer durables industry jobs, you need to be able to sell products effectively. You should have a good understanding of sales and marketing techniques, as well as the ability to develop and execute sales plans.

3. Customer service skills

Providing excellent customer service is essential in the consumer durables industry. You should have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and be able to resolve customer complaints effectively.

4. Teamwork

Consumer durables industry jobs often require you to work in teams. You should be able to work collaboratively with others, communicate effectively, and contribute to the team’s success.

5. Analytical skills

Analyzing market trends, consumer preferences, and sales data is an essential part of consumer durables industry jobs. You should be able to analyze and interpret data and use it to make informed business decisions.

6. Time management

Working in the consumer durables industry requires you to manage your time effectively. You should be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

7. Adaptability

The consumer durables industry is constantly evolving, and you need to be able to adapt to changes in the market and in technology.

8. Attention to detail

In the consumer durables industry, attention to detail is critical. You should be meticulous in your work, ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of quality.

What are the Factors Affecting the Availability of Jobs in Consumer Durables?

1. Economic conditions

The overall state of the economy can impact the availability of jobs in the consumer durables industry. When the economy is in a downturn, people tend to spend less on big-ticket items like appliances and vehicles, which can result in decreased demand for consumer durables and fewer job opportunities.

2. Technological advancements

Advances in technology can have a significant impact on the consumer durables industry. As new technologies emerge, some jobs may become obsolete, while others may require different skill sets. For example, as more vehicles become electric, jobs related to traditional combustion engines may decrease, while jobs related to electric vehicles may increase.

3. Globalization

The consumer durables industry is increasingly globalized, with many products being manufactured overseas. This can impact the availability of jobs in countries like the United States, where some jobs may be outsourced to lower-cost countries.

4. Consumer preferences

Consumer preferences can also impact the availability of jobs in the consumer durables industry. For example, if consumers shift away from buying certain types of products, such as gas-guzzling vehicles or appliances with high energy consumption, this can result in decreased demand for certain types of jobs in the industry.

5. Government regulations

Government regulations can also impact the availability of jobs in the consumer durables industry. For example, regulations related to energy efficiency or emissions can impact the types of products that are produced and sold, which can impact the types of jobs that are available.

What are the challenges faced by the consumer durable industry?

The consumer products industry, in the simplest term, consists of organizations that manufacture products that are used by the consumer. This includes subvertical industries such as Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Food and Beverages (F&B), Consumer Durable Goods, and tobacco.

Below are specific and broad challenges faced by each:

1. Changing Consumer Demands

Today, consumer products companies need to be consumer focused. Demand has a tendency to fluctuate rapidly. For example, consumer preferences have altered greatly in recent years as demand shifts toward healthier and sustainable options. Consequently, manufacturing success is closely related to time-to-market and new product introduction (NPI) capabilities. Additionally, demand can fluctuate cyclically and with economic volatility. The success and profitability of any organization in this industry is heavily dependent on how effective these companies are at addressing the changing demands of consumers.

2. Shrinking Operating Margins

With global competition, companies are faced with the challenge of meeting global price points. This creates additional pressure, as manufacturers need to ensure the delivery of high quality products while finding innovative ways to cut costs. Companies also need to account for fluctuations in factors such as oil prices and their effect on transportation costs or petrochemicals which may be used for agrochemicals and packaging.

3. Compliance and Regulatory Pressures

The global regulatory environment is dynamic. Companies are faced with the challenges of mitigating operational risk and managing nonconformances. Creating additional pressures, as manufacturers rely on the global supplier network to battle shrinking operating margins, meeting international compliance and regulations becomes a factor.

4. Globalizing Economy

Leveraging the global supplier network is a means for reducing costs, however it does come with numerous risks in terms of compliance, product safety, and other areas. As one consequence, the 2011 U.S. Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) places considerable focus on upstream visibility. Although it will likely be years before FSMA drives significant change in U.S. food processing compliance, companies are beginning to prepare. Other subverticals, such as tobacco, are faced with globalization challenges such as counterfeited products.

5. Data Granularity and Visibility

With compliance and regulations becoming stricter, traceability functionalities are more pertinent and requisite than in the past. Consumer products companies need strong data granularity to reduce operational risk, properly respond to an adverse event with a targeted recall, provide high quality and compliant products, and avoid counterfeiting issues associated with global trade.

What are the factors influencing the demand for durable consumer goods?

The demand for a good increases or decreases depending on several factors. This includes the product’s price, perceived quality, advertising spend, consumer income, consumer confidence, and changes in taste and fashion.

Below are factors that influence the demand for durable consumer goods:

1. Price of product

The single-most impactful factor on a product’s demand is the price. In general, there is a clear connection between the price of a good and the demand. Higher prices create lower demand and lower prices create higher demand. This is due to the satisfaction levels of consumers. If they can’t afford your good, there won’t be much demand for it. This means understanding CPG pricing is vital.

2. Tastes and preferences

Consumer tastes and preferences have a direct impact on the demand for consumer goods. Unfortunately, preferences can change within a market for a wide array of reasons. Some of these reasons can be intrinsic, while others are external. This is especially true in the CPG industry, where consumer’s expect more from their brands.

For example, the tastes of single shoppers and families are vastly different. A family will likely buy child-friendly products, while a single person is generally only shopping for themselves.

3. Consumer’s income

As a rule, the more money consumers have, the more they like to spend it and buy more. Not only do wealthier groups shop more frequently, but they tend to prefer high-quality, pricier products. The opposite is also true, meaning that changes in consumer demand can ebb and flow along with general economic stability. During a recession, consumers will spend less than they do in a boom.

4. Number of consumers in the market

In this case, demand is determined by how many people are buying a particular product. Therefore, the more consumers available, the greater the demand. In some cases, this number increases because of population changes. In other instances, demand goes up because the product appeals to more demographics. There, the number of consumers is technically the same, but more of them are buying than before.

5. Consumer’s expectations

Another reason that anticipating demand can be so challenging is that you have to pay attention to both habits and expectations. Unfortunately, it’s much harder to predict or understand these expectations. Overall, it’s much easier to look at past data to figure out what could happen in the future.

Many things can influence consumer expectations. If we take the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, fears drove consumers to buy toilet paper and hand sanitizer in massive quantities. Pre-pandemic, it would have been difficult to anticipate that kind of reactionary spending.

What are the six most important factors that influence purchases of consumer durable goods?

There are several factors that can influence a consumer’s decision to purchase durable goods, such as the price of the item, its quality, brand reputation, product features, customer reviews, and the perceived value.

Here are six of the most important factors that can have a significant impact on a consumer’s purchasing decision:

1. Price

The cost of the product is one of the most significant factors that consumers consider when purchasing durable goods. Consumers often compare the price of the product with other similar products in the market to determine its value.

2. Quality

Consumers are also concerned about the quality of the product they are purchasing. They look for products that are durable, reliable, and have a good reputation for quality.

3. Brand Reputation

The reputation of the brand can also play a significant role in influencing a consumer’s purchasing decision. Consumers are more likely to purchase products from well-known and trusted brands, as they have confidence in the quality of the product and the company behind it.

4. Product Features

Consumers are also interested in the features and benefits of the product. They look for products that have the features they need, such as ease of use, performance, and versatility.

5. Customer Reviews

Reviews from other customers can also be a critical factor in a consumer’s decision to purchase a product. Consumers often read reviews online to get an idea of how other customers have experienced the product and whether it meets their expectations.

6. Perceived Value

The perceived value of the product is also a significant factor in a consumer’s decision to purchase a durable good. Consumers often compare the price of the product with its quality and features to determine whether it represents good value for money.

Conclusion: How Many Jobs are Available in Consumer Durables?

The job market for consumer durables is quite strong. Many jobs are available in this field, and the number of positions depends on various factors. There are always opportunities for people with the right skills and experience to work in this sector.

Companies always look for workers who can help them improve their processes and produce high-quality consumer durable goods. If you are interested in working with consumer durables, keep an eye on job postings to see what openings are available. With a little effort, you should find a position that’s a good fit for your skills and interests.

FAQs

What is the most common job in Consumer Durables?

There are many different jobs within the consumer durables industry, so it’s difficult to pinpoint the most common job. Some common positions include sales representatives, product managers, marketing specialists, supply chain coordinators, and customer service representatives.

What roles are available in consumer durables?

As mentioned, there are many different roles available in consumer durables, such as product design, manufacturing, sales, marketing, supply chain management, customer service, and more.

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?

Whether or not a job in consumer durables is easy depends on the specific position and the individual’s experience and skill set. Some jobs may be more physically demanding or require more technical knowledge, while others may be more focused on sales or customer service.

What is the hardest consumer non-durables job to get?

The consumer non-durables industry is also diverse, and it’s difficult to say which job is the hardest to get. However, some positions may be more competitive than others, such as marketing or product development roles at well-known consumer brands.

What are examples of consumer non-durable goods?

Consumer non-durable goods are products that are typically consumed or used up within a short period of time, such as food, beverages, personal care products, and cleaning supplies.

Is laptop a consumer non-durable goods?

A laptop is typically considered a consumer durable good, as it is designed to last for several years with proper care and maintenance. However, some components of a laptop, such as batteries or charging cables, may be considered consumer non-durable goods as they may need to be replaced more frequently.