What Are Manufacturing Support Services?
Manufacturing support services encompass various activities that enable and enhance manufacturing operations. They primarily support the core manufacturing processes but are not directly involved in making the end product.
Manufacturing support services differ from manufacturing engineering services. The latter focuses on designing, developing, and optimizing the manufacturing processes and equipment. Manufacturing support services focus more on assisting with daily production and operational activities.
Typical manufacturing support services include:
Production planning and scheduling to ensure efficient workflow and on-time delivery
Procurement of raw materials, components, equipment, and MRO supplies
Inventory management including spare parts, WIP, and finished goods
Logistics, shipping, and warehousing activities
Equipment maintenance, installations, and modifications
Process improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives
Regulatory compliance, EHS, and sustainability programs
Training programs for manufacturing personnel
Data analytics to generate operational insights
Managing third-party contractors and service providers
So in summary, manufacturing support services play a critical behind-the-scenes role in enabling smooth manufacturing operations and optimizing production efficiency. Their activities keep the manufacturing engines running daily.
Manufacturing Support Services Job Roles
Manufacturing support services encompass various job roles that provide assistance and expertise to manufacturing facilities and operations. Here are some of the most common job titles and responsibilities:
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing engineers design, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes and systems. They support production by solving problems, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring quality.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial engineers determine the most effective ways for an organization to use its personnel, equipment, and resources. They design production processes, implement quality control standards, and address operational issues.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers oversee the flow of products and information between a company's suppliers, factories, warehouses, and customers. They coordinate logistics, purchasing, budgeting, and forecasting.
Maintenance Technician
Maintenance techs inspect the equipment, perform preventive maintenance, and complete repairs. They troubleshoot issues and install new equipment to minimize downtime.
Quality Engineer
Quality engineers develop and implement quality assurance procedures and testing methods. They identify production problems and recommend solutions to meet quality standards.
Production Supervisor
Production supervisors direct manufacturing activities and personnel on the plant floor. They ensure safe operations, schedule workflow and track productivity and performance.
Facilities Manager
Facilities managers organize and coordinate the operations and maintenance of buildings, equipment, and infrastructure. They manage teams, oversee repairs, handle logistics and ensure regulatory compliance.
Automation Engineer
Automation engineers design, program, implement, and troubleshoot automated equipment and robotics. They integrate automation technologies into manufacturing systems.
Project Manager
Project managers plan and oversee manufacturing initiatives such as new product launches, plant expansions, and process improvement projects.
Continuous Improvement Manager
Continuous improvement managers implement lean, six sigma and other methodologies to improve processes. They lead kaizen events and oversee constant incremental improvements.
Manufacturing Support Analyst
Support analysts assist with data analysis, production reporting, inventory management and logistics coordination. They provide analytical support across the production lifecycle.
Education and Skills
Most manufacturing support roles require a bachelor's degree in engineering, technology or business. Hands-on experience via internships is valuable. Relevant skills include critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and project management. Many positions also require specific certifications.
Career Advancement
With experience, manufacturing support professionals can advance to lead positions with more responsibility and higher pay. Some move into leadership while others specialize and become subject matter experts. Senior-level roles include Operations Director, Plant Manager, and VP of Manufacturing.
Trends and Technology
The manufacturing support services industry is being transformed by new technologies and trends that are enabling faster, more flexible, and more efficient manufacturing. Some of the key trends shaping MSS include:
Automation and Robotics
Industrial automation and robotics are allowing manufacturers to automate repetitive tasks and improve quality control. This increases productivity and frees up workers from routine activities so they can focus on higher-value work. Advancements in sensor technology, computer vision, and machine learning are making industrial robots smarter and expanding their capabilities.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Networking physical devices and assets with internet connectivity and sensors is generating huge amounts of data. This big data combined with analytics and AI allows for greater visibility into manufacturing operations. IoT facilitates predictive maintenance to reduce downtime and enables real-time monitoring and optimization across the production line.
Additive Manufacturing
Also known as 3D printing, additive manufacturing allows for rapid prototyping, customization, and on-demand production without dedicated tooling or molds. It reduces waste, enables mass customization, and simplifies supply chains. As the technology advances, 3D printing will become faster and capable of producing end-use parts.
Digital Twins
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a physical product or production process that is linked to its real-world counterpart. Digital twins leverage IoT, big data, and simulations to enable virtual testing, predictive analytics, and visibility into performance. This allows rapid iteration and optimization in design and production.
Advanced Analytics
From predictive analytics to machine learning and AI, advanced data analytics tools provide real-time insights that can boost quality, reduce variability, and improve overall equipment effectiveness. Analytics help identify inefficiencies, variability, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
Cloud Computing
Cloud-based solutions provide secure on-demand access to computing resources, storage, and applications without large upfront IT investments. This allows for scalability, collaboration, and the ability to leverage powerful analytics capabilities.
The convergence of these new technologies is enabling MSS providers to deliver more value in equipment monitoring, maintenance, process improvement, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and technical training.
Challenges in the Industry
The manufacturing support services industry faces several key challenges:
Cost Reduction Pressure
Manufacturing companies are under intense pressure to cut costs in order to remain competitive in the global marketplace. This cost reduction mandate trickles down to their manufacturing support partners. MSS providers need to find ways to maintain quality while reducing the cost of their services. This may require process improvements, increased efficiency, or investment in automation and advanced technologies. However, cost-cutting cannot come at the expense of service quality and reliability. MSS partners need to work closely with their manufacturing clients to find the optimal balance between cost control and value delivery.
Skills Gaps
The rapid pace of technological change has created a skills gap in the MSS industry. As manufacturing processes become more complex and automated, MSS professionals need new technical competencies. However, educational programs are often slow to catch up to emerging technologies. This skills shortage makes it difficult for MSS firms to recruit talent and provide the expertise clients demand. Investment in training and development is essential to close the skills gap and build a workforce fluent in advanced manufacturing techniques. A proactive approach to nurturing talent will become a competitive advantage.
Adapting to New Technologies
From 3D printing to digital twins to the Industrial Internet of Things, exciting new technologies are transforming manufacturing. MSS providers need to rapidly adopt and deploy these innovations to improve agility and efficiency. However, integrating new solutions alongside legacy systems can be complex and costly. MSS professionals face the dual challenge of keeping pace with innovation while maximizing their existing technology investments. Organizations that develop an adaptable culture and agile processes will be best positioned to leverage emerging technologies for enhanced manufacturing support.
Useful Resources and Tools
Manufacturing support services professionals utilize a variety of software, tools, and certifications to effectively manage manufacturing operations. Here are some of the most useful resources:
ERP, MES, and PLM Software
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software helps manage business processes across the organization including product planning, inventory management, supply chain, and more. Popular ERP systems include SAP, Oracle, and Infor.
MES (Manufacturing Execution System) software tracks and documents the transformation of materials to finished goods on the factory floor. MES provides real-time data to help optimize production.
PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software manages the entire lifecycle of a product including design, engineering, production, and service. PLM integrates people, data, processes, and business systems.
Simulation and Prototyping Tools
Computer-aided design (CAD) creates design specifications and detailed technical drawings. CAD allows for iterative testing and optimization through simulation.
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) programs control CNC machinery and translate CAD designs into tool paths for manufacturing. This automates and optimizes production.
3D printing quickly creates prototypes for concept modeling and functional testing before full production.
Recommended Certifications
Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) from SME
Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) from SME
Certified Enterprise Resource Planning Professional (CERP) from IAOP
Lean Certifications from SME, ASQ, or APIC
Project Management Professional (PMP) from PMI
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS
These software tools, equipment, and certifications enable manufacturing support professionals to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and drive continuous improvement.
Tips for Getting Started
Starting a career in manufacturing support services (MSS) can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it is an achievable goal for many mechanical engineers or engineering students. Here are some tips to help get your foot in the door:
Recommended Education
Earn at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related engineering field. Coursework in manufacturing processes, industrial engineering, CAD, and project management is helpful.
Consider a master's degree for advancement, especially an MS in manufacturing management or engineering management. This will equip you with leadership and business skills.
Stay current with industry certifications like Lean Six Sigma or PMP. These demonstrate your commitment to quality and efficiency.
### Develop Relevant Hard and Soft Skills
Hone technical skills in CAD, FEA, PLM software, metrology, machining, and automation.
Build expertise in topics like DFM, lean manufacturing, statistical quality control, and supply chain optimization.
Develop soft skills in communication, collaboration, analytical thinking, and problem-solving. These allow you to work cross-functionally.
Learn to synthesize data, identify root causes, anticipate problems, and present recommendations.
Find Entry Level Jobs and Internships
Look for internships and co-ops at manufacturing companies to get hands-on experience. Attend job fairs and network with manufacturing professionals to find openings.
Check listings for associate manufacturing support engineer roles and rotational programs at larger companies.
Be willing to start on the factory floor or in quality/reliability engineering to prove yourself.
Highlight your manufacturing knowledge, troubleshooting skills, and passion for continuous improvement.
Case Studies and Examples
Manufacturing support services (MSS) companies help drive success for manufacturers by providing expertise and capabilities that allow them to focus on their core business. Here are some leading MSS companies making an impact:
Wipro
Wipro is a global leader in MSS, offering end-to-end engineering solutions and services that help clients accelerate product development and innovation. Some examples of their success include:
Developing a proof-of-concept virtual reality application for Caterpillar that simulated equipment service scenarios, enabling faster operator training.
Providing manufacturing engineering services for an automotive seating supplier that optimized production lines by 20% and reduced costs.
Helping an industrial equipment manufacturer revamp their legacy systems using digital twin technology, improving productivity by 30%.
HCL Technologies
HCL offers MSS solutions spanning engineering analytics, manufacturing IT, and IoT-enabled services. Their successes include:
Deploying smart predicting maintenance solutions for a tire manufacturer, reducing breakdowns by 15% and increasing uptime.
Developing a simulation model for an aerospace parts supplier to identify bottlenecks and optimize throughput by 40%.
Implementing digital factory floor automation for an engine manufacturer that improved quality by 10% and worker efficiency by 25%.
Tech Mahindra
Tech Mahindra is another leading global provider of MSS. Some of their achievements:
Developing AI-based cybersecurity solutions for smart manufacturing plants, preventing cyberattacks that could result in millions in losses.
Implementing next-gen platform solutions for an aerospace company that accelerated new product introduction by 30-40%.
Providing engineering services for a machinery OEM to redesign product lines, resulting in 15% increased performance and longer equipment lifetime.
By leveraging expertise in areas from IoT to virtual reality, leading MSS companies enable manufacturers to maximize efficiency, quality, and innovation. Their success stories showcase the transformative impact of MSS.
Importance of MSS for Engineers
Manufacturing support services (MSS) play a pivotal role for mechanical engineers and the broader manufacturing industry. By partnering with MSS providers, engineers and manufacturers can realize numerous benefits:
Improved Quality: MSS providers develop deep expertise in niche areas like reliability testing, regulatory compliance, lean manufacturing, and more. This allows them to deliver consistent, high-quality results and free up internal teams to focus on core products.
Increased Efficiency: Companies that leverage MSS can avoid the costs of training, hiring, and managing specialized talent in-house. MSS providers already have the infrastructure, skills, and processes in place. This improves efficiency and keeps internal teams small and agile.
Enhanced Sustainability: Specialized MSS in areas like energy auditing, waste reduction, environmental compliance, and green product design enable companies to embed sustainability throughout operations. MSS providers stay on top of the latest regulations, technologies, and best practices.
Focus on Core Competencies: Most importantly, MSS allows engineers and technical teams to devote their efforts to what they do best - designing, innovating, and developing products. It enables companies to flex talent as needed without permanently expanding headcount. The result is greater agility and the ability to focus on delivering core value.
In summary, manufacturing support services empower mechanical engineers and manufacturers to operate leaner while leveraging world-class expertise across critical operational areas. MSS is key to remaining competitive in today's manufacturing landscape.
MSS for Specific Industries
The applications of manufacturing support services can vary greatly across industries. Here are some examples of how MSS is utilized in key sectors:
Automotive
The automotive industry relies heavily on manufacturing support services to enable efficient, high-quality production. Key MSS roles in auto manufacturing include:
Production engineers to optimize assembly line processes
Industrial engineers to layout plants and manage inventory
Quality assurance engineers to validate processes and finished vehicles
Equipment reliability engineers to maximize uptime
Supply chain specialists to coordinate parts logistics
MSS helps automakers boost productivity, meet demand, and deliver consistent, defect-free vehicles.
Aerospace
Aerospace manufacturing has very specialized requirements. MSS professionals provide crucial expertise such as:
Advanced composite materials engineering
Precision machining for complex geometries
Stringent quality control procedures
Aircraft system integration
Checking engineering designs for manufacturability
MSS enables aerospace companies to manufacture safe, complex aircraft and spacecraft.
Medical Devices
Medical device manufacturing must meet stringent regulatory standards. MSS experts help by:
Ensuring compliant quality systems and validation protocols
Facilitating technology transfers from R&D to production
Developing robust, repeatable manufacturing processes
Performing failure mode analysis on designs
Advising on material selection and biocompatibility
MSS allows medical device makers to deliver safe, effective products to market quickly and efficiently.
The Future of MSS
The future looks bright for manufacturing support services as the industry is projected to see continued growth in the years ahead. Several key developments will shape and transform MSS in the future:
Continued Growth Projected - Market research indicates steady growth in demand for manufacturing support services, as manufacturers seek to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput. The MSS industry is expected to expand globally as developing nations invest in industrialization.
Industrial Internet of Things - The IoT is revolutionizing manufacturing with intelligent, interconnected systems. For MSS, IIoT means more data-driven services and automation. It will enable proactive maintenance, remote monitoring, logistics tracking, and other smart manufacturing support.
Additive Manufacturing - Also known as 3D printing, additive manufacturing allows on-demand, customized production with no tooling required. As technology advances, 3D printing will transform spare parts logistics and enable distributed manufacturing. MSS providers will need expertise in AM design, materials, and process engineering.
Automation - Advanced robotics, AI, and automated systems are taking over an increasing number of manufacturing tasks. For MSS, this means the chance to leverage automation for quality control, materials handling, inspection, and more. But it also requires upskilling to work alongside intelligent machines.
The future MSS pro will need a mix of technical skills and "human" skills like creativity, problem-solving, and communication. By staying agile and leveraging new technologies, MSS providers can become true innovation partners to manufacturers.
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