Production · SOC 51-9198
Production helper tasks are routine and physical; automation is making inroads but anomaly response stays human.
Parts of the job are exposed, but judgment and context still matter.
Timeline: Cobots and simple automation are displacing the most repetitive helper tasks in well-funded facilities; mid-market manufacturers will continue employing helpers for flexibility through 2030.
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$45,760 median pay
$39,790 median pay
$37,320 median pay
$48,310 median pay
$51,180 median pay
Production
AI job-risk card
Helpers--Production Workers is watch on AIFear. Parts of the job are exposed, but judgment and context still matter.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Helpers--Production Workers is 35/100 (Watch). Parts of the job are exposed, but judgment and context still matter.
35 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Recording production counts and meter readings, Reading gauges and charts for data entry, Preparing raw materials for processing. Harder to automate: Loading and unloading machines and conveyors physically, Responding to equipment malfunctions as they occur, Positioning workpieces requiring physical dexterity, Operating diverse production machinery as needed.
Lean into Manufacturing process fundamentals, Industrial equipment operation, Workplace safety and OSHA compliance, Quality awareness and inspection. Consider roles such as Machine operator (specialized) or Quality control technician or Logistics and warehouse associate.
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.