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Auto Manufacturing Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Auto Hot Press Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

We are continuously accepting applications As an Auto Hot Press Operator at Husqvarna Construction ... Operate manufacturing equipment and select hot pressing programs per work orders. * Clean equipment ...

Auto Hot Press Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

We are continuously accepting applications As an Auto Hot Press Operator at Husqvarna Construction ... Operate manufacturing equipment and select hot pressing programs per work orders. * Clean equipment ...

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Auto Manufacturing information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$7

$15

$22

How much do auto manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto manufacturing in Columbia, SC is $15.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do auto manufacturing workers do?

Auto manufacturing workers are responsible for assembling vehicles and automotive components in factories. Their duties can include operating machinery, installing parts, conducting quality checks, and ensuring that all products meet safety and performance standards. Workers may specialize in tasks such as welding, painting, or installing electrical systems. The work is often fast-paced and requires attention to detail, teamwork, and adherence to strict safety protocols.

How to get a job in auto manufacturing?

The qualifications you need for a job in auto manufacturing vary. If you work as a technician, you may need to complete an associate’s degree or a training program. In any role, you should be familiar with the equipment used in vehicle production, communication skills, and some knowledge about the assembly of car and truck parts. Manufacturing technicians can typically find a position with on-the-job training to enhance their skills. Quality assurance inspectors and plant supervisors need experience working in an auto manufacturing plant. You need advanced qualifications to work as an engineer in the auto manufacturing industry, including a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in auto manufacturing?

To thrive in Auto Manufacturing, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, production processes, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma, vocational training, or relevant certifications. Familiarity with manufacturing software, CNC machines, robotics, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills ensure efficient production, high-quality output, and a safe work environment in a fast-paced, technology-driven industry.

What are some common challenges faced by employees in auto manufacturing roles, and how can they be managed?

Employees in auto manufacturing often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing technologies, maintaining high quality standards under tight deadlines, and working in fast-paced, physically demanding environments. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for overcoming these challenges, as tasks often require close collaboration with colleagues across production, engineering, and quality assurance. Many companies offer ongoing training and safety programs to support employees, and seeking feedback from supervisors can also help in adapting to new processes and expectations.

What is the difference between Auto Manufacturing vs Auto Assembly Line Worker?

AspectAuto ManufacturingAuto Assembly Line Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, often involving machinery and safety protocolsAssembly lines within factories, repetitive tasks, fast-paced
Industry UsageEncompasses entire vehicle production process, from parts to final assemblySpecific role focused on assembling vehicle components

Auto Manufacturing involves overseeing the entire vehicle production process, including planning, quality control, and coordination of various departments. In contrast, an Auto Assembly Line Worker performs specific tasks on the assembly line, focusing on putting together vehicle parts. Both roles are essential in the automotive industry, but Auto Manufacturing offers a broader scope and often requires more technical knowledge.

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Auto Manufacturing jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Auto Manufacturing job openings:

Infographic showing various Auto Manufacturing job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,358 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Management Associate - Leadership Development Program

International Paper Company

Columbia, SC • On-site

$82K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 296 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

323rd of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description


Position Title:
Manufacturing Management Associate - Leadership Development Program
Pay Range:
$82,000 - $92,000
Multiple factors, including Individual experience, skills and abilities, and geographic location will determine where an employee is ultimately placed in the pay range. Variable pay may provide additional opportunities for financial awards. This job is eligible to participate in IP's short -term incentive plan.
Category/Shift:
Salaried Full-Time
Physical Locations:
Applicants to this position will be considered at the following locations:
  • Columbia, SC
  • Lexington, SC

We are also hiring for this position in the locations below. Please visit internationalpaper.com/careers to apply for additional openings.
  • Atglen, PA
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Aurora, IL
  • Bell, CA
  • Binghamton, NY
  • Crawfordsville, IN
  • Dallas, TX
  • Fort Smith, AR
  • Gilroy, CA
  • Lincoln, IL
  • Middletown, OH
  • Murfreesboro, TN
  • Omaha, NE
  • Reading, PA
  • San Antonio, TX
  • Salinas, CA
  • Shakopee, MN
  • St. Joseph, MO

Relocation assistance is available.
Program Overview:
We are looking for motivated individuals who have a solid professional foundation and an interest in growing their career with our world-class manufacturing company. This program is intended to expand your knowledge and skills through a variety of hands-on manufacturing and business experiences and to develop you as a future leader in International Paper.
The Manufacturing Management Associate Program offers a unique leadership pathway, with opportunities now available at several of our 160+ U.S. manufacturing plants. These facilities manufacture sustainable packaging solutions for local and national customers.
The Job You Will Perform:
  • Active participation in rotations related to manufacturing, customer service, planning, maintenance, environmental, safety, sales, front line supervision as well as other managerial and administrative functions
  • Develop knowledge of key manufacturing metrics and their impacts on the business; Seek opportunities to enhance performance to best in class
  • Leading special projects and development of solutions related to safety, process improvement, quality, capacity balance, workflow, planning and logistics issues
  • Continue to develop and improve safety systems to include ownership, communication, training, recognition, safety audits and behavioral based safety practices
  • Lead teams of manufacturing personnel as appropriate
  • Work with supervisors and operating teams to ensure continuous improvement through manufacturing reliability tools; facilitate task teams to address performance gaps at facility
  • Support and implementation of standard division systems and tools to accomplish operating objectives
  • Assist in plant operations, troubleshooting, process improvement, and equipment upgrades to achieve facility objectives
  • Coaching, training and engaging employees on process improvement and the impact on business results
  • Assist Sales Representatives on customer interactions regarding capability, product offerings, quality, systems and service
  • Actively participate in leadership development opportunities as presented

The Qualifications, Skills and Knowledge You Will Bring:
  • Bachelor's degree is required (preferably in Engineering or Business).
  • Previous experience with a manufacturing company, targeting 2+ years
  • Candidate's ability to relocate is essential and translates to increased opportunities for selection and advancement.
  • Successful candidates will possess the leadership skills to command a team, the process management skills to drive results, and the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and communicate within a collaborative, fast-paced manufacturing environment.

About Us
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets
The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.
International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.

What International Paper employees say

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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898