Manufacturing - IRP: Industrial Recruitment Partners

IRP recruiters have spent years inside manufacturing environments where downtime is measured in minutes, not days. We understand the operational pressure of keeping high-speed production lines moving, managing changeovers efficiently and maintaining output targets while balancing quality, maintenance and safety requirements. Our team recognises the difference between someone who has simply “worked in manufacturing” and operators who genuinely understand lean production, preventative maintenance coordination, batch traceability and continuous improvement environments.

We know the machinery, workflows and workforce capability requirements involved in modern manufacturing operations – from extrusion lines, CNC machinery and robotic palletisers through to conveyors, filling systems and automated packaging equipment. We understand the importance of operators who can fault-find under pressure, work around shutdown schedules, reduce scrap rates and maintain production flow without compromising QA standards or workplace safety.

Roles we recruit for in manufacturing

Over more than two decades, we've developed a deep understanding of the skills, experience and behaviours that drive success across this industry. That insight enables us to evaluate each role beyond its technical requirements, considering the operational context, team dynamics and performance outcomes we're recruiting to achieve.

Welders
CNC Machinists
Mechanical Fitters
Trade Assistants
Boilermakers
Factory Workers
Assemblers
Fabricators
General Hands
Machine Offsiders
Overhead Crane Operators
Process Workers
Production Operators
Plant Operators
Mechanics
Pipefitters
Press Brake Operators
Forklift Operators
Machinists
Machine Operators
Sheet Metal Workers
Maintenance Technicians
Form Workers
Concrete Labourers
Decking Operators
Turret Punch Operators
Roll Former Operators
Laser Operators
Administration & Customer Service

Some of our manufacturing clients

What our clients say

It is a pleasure to deal with IRP. They take the time to understand our business and continuing working to add value on a day-to-day basis. IRP are more than just a labour hire company or a recruiter, rather to us they are a business partner who passionately care about their people and their customers.

A.E Sabkaji Client

I feel the ability to work for such a company like IRP is an honour and privilege. Their desire to cater to all of their workers is astonishing, not only the ability to continually have work, but to also reward those who have worked hard with BBQs and many other rewards.

R. Ferris Candidate

Worked for this company for 8 months before acquiring a full-time position at my place of assignment. IRP always made sure my needs were met. Pay was always on time, working hours were consistent, and overtime opportunities were ever present. Would happily work with them again.

J. James Candidate

I found IRP to be professional and helpful. They showed compassion and truly wanted to find me work.

S. Gorman Candidate

I've been employed by IRP for over 2 years now and have never had a problem. Their management have always handled things in a professional manner regarding pay and finding work. I will definitely continue to work for them in the future.

A. Brugman Candidate

We have dealt with IRP for several years now and I like that they work hard to try to find us good people to fit into our business. Candidates are always brought to site for a tour before they are started. Our IRP Account Manager has a good knowledge of each department within our business which makes finding the right fit for us, a little easier.

Peter Cranston, Operations Manager, Metroll Client

You have absolutely nailed it AGAIN…I am 3 interviews down and I want to employ all of them! OMG! Why do I do this to myself?!

Desiree Boult, General Manager, Black & White – Power & Light Client

From all accounts, a couple of guns thanks Lisa.

Wayne Sorrell, Warehouse Manager, Galvins Plumbing Supplies Client

In terms of Ali he is working out really well – has been a good fit and has proven to be so far a great find. You will get first priority on the next position.

Christian Crummer, Regional Operations Manager, Acura Group Client

This has genuinely been my first positive experience working with a recruiter, and that is entirely thanks to you Mary. Your guidance and support made the process smooth and reassuring from start to finish.

City of Canning Candidate

4.6 · IRP's overall Google rating

Manufacturing recruitment FAQs

What skills are manufacturers finding hardest to recruit?

Recruitment challenges vary, but experienced operators, tradespeople, maintenance personnel and supervisors remain consistently in demand.

Why do manufacturers need different recruitment strategies?

Every manufacturing operation has different equipment, production systems, quality standards and team dynamics.

Can transferable skills be more valuable than direct industry experience?

Often yes. Adaptability, attitude and learning capability can outperform narrow technical experience.

Why is understanding production environments important?

Knowing how work actually happens enables more accurate candidate assessment.

What should manufacturers prioritise when hiring?

Long-term team fit, reliability and operational contribution—not simply technical capability.

Insights from 20 Years Inside WA Industry

Explore practical articles, workforce insights and operational lessons drawn from two decades spent working alongside Western Australia’s industrial businesses.