Maximizing Your Job Search After Layoff: Strategies for Industrial, Cleaning & Event Staffing Roles

person looking for jobs online

Being laid off, especially from roles in light industrial work, cleaning, or event staffing, can feel overwhelming. However, with the right mindset and strategies, this transition period can become a launchpad for new opportunities. Northland Staffing specializes in connecting hardworking professionals like you with flexible temp, temp-to-hire, and permanent roles in these industries.

Reflect on Your Career Goals and Strengths

Take some time to assess your skills and preferences. Light industrial roles may include warehouse work, assembly, or packaging, while cleaning jobs span commercial janitorial work to specialized sanitation services. Event staffing involves roles like setup crew, crowd management, or catering support. Clarifying where your strengths lie helps focus your job search and skill development.

Build and Highlight Relevant Skills

Enhance your employability by refreshing or learning practical skills. Safety certifications, equipment operation training, and customer service skills are highly valued across light industrial, cleaning, and event staffing jobs. Consider short online courses or local workshops to update your credentials.

Use the Three-Step Networking Framework

  1. Make an Announcement: Share your availability and desired job types on social media or job search platforms.
  2. Individual Outreach: Contact former supervisors, co-workers, and industry contacts for leads and advice.
  3. Exploratory Conversations: Schedule brief conversations to learn about upcoming jobs or seasonal hiring trends.

Networking can be a powerful way to hear about openings before they’re widely advertised.

Apply the 90-Minute Rule for Job Search Focus

Structure your day in 90-minute focused sessions—whether it’s applying for openings, reaching out to staffing agencies, or building new skills relevant to your field. This focus improves productivity and reduces burnout during your job search.

Prioritize Financial and Physical Wellbeing

Managing finances carefully and maintaining your health through exercise and proper rest are vital during this period. Staying physically fit not only helps you feel better but also prepares you for the demands of industrial or cleaning roles.

How Northland Staffing Supports Job Seekers in Your Industry

Northland Staffing offers access to a wide range of job opportunities in light industrial, cleaning, and event staffing sectors. Our staffing agency specializes in quick placements for temporary, temp-to-hire, and permanent jobs that fit your schedule and skills. Temporary assignments can supplement your income immediately and often lead to longer-term employment.

Our recruiters provide personalized support with resume advice, interview preparation, and career coaching to help you stand out in this competitive job market. We work closely with employers who value reliability, skill, and commitment in staff for warehouse shifts, janitorial duties, event setups, and more.

Stay Motivated and Persistent

Remember, every job application submitted and every new contact made is progress. Celebrate small wins and keep your focus on the goal of securing employment that fits your lifestyle and ambitions. With the right strategies and support from Northland Staffing, your next job opportunity is within reach.

At Northland Staffing, we’re committed to helping light industrial, cleaning, and event professionals bounce back from layoffs and find rewarding work quickly. Contact us today to explore available positions and staffing services tailored to your industry.

Machine Operator

Northland Staffing Solutions is looking for skilled and detail-oriented Machine Operators to work for our client in Hastings, MN. Our client is a leader in the Manufacturing of Pet Food.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating various machinery and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes. As a Machine Operator, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient production of high-quality products while adhering to safety standards and operational procedures.

Responsibilities of the Machine Operator:

  • Operate injection molding machines that shape and form dog treats according to production specifications.
  • Load and monitor ingredients or dough mixtures into the machine hopper to ensure continuous operation.
  • Adjust machine settings (pressure, temperature, timing) for optimal molding and output.
  • Inspect finished dog treats for shape, texture, and consistency; remove defective products.
  • Ensure proper cleaning and sanitization of equipment to maintain food safety and hygiene.
  • Document production data, including batch numbers, quantities, and any equipment issues.
  • Report mechanical issues or inconsistencies to maintenance or the supervisor.
  • Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), HACCP guidelines, and company food safety procedures.
  • Work with quality control to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Assist in changeovers, machine setup, and basic preventive maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to read and follow production instructions or batch sheets.
  • Good attention to detail and ability to work independently or in a team.

Requirements of the Machine Operator:

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly.
  • Standing, walking, bending, and repetitive motion for extended periods.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, aprons, and hairnets.

Benefits of the Machine Operator:

  • Starting Salary of $15.00 per hour
  • Sign On Bonus of $100
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Life Insurance
  • Vision Insurance

Job Type: Full Time

Work Location: In person

APPLY NOW!

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS JOB?

Fill out the form below with your contact info and any questions. We will get back to you soon.

Assembly Line Technician

Assembly Line Technician
Assembly Line Technician

Northland Staffing Solutions is hiring a dedicated and skilled Assembly Line Technician to work for our client located in Eagan, MN in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong mechanical aptitude and experience in assembly line operations. As a Line Technician, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient operation of production lines, maintaining equipment, and contributing to the overall success of our manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities of the Assembly Line Technician:

  • Operate and monitor machinery on the assembly line to ensure optimal performance.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on production equipment.
  • Assemble products according to specifications while adhering to quality standards.
  • Utilize hand tools and power tools safely and effectively during assembly tasks.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet production goals and deadlines.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, following safety protocols at all times.
  • Assist in training new employees on equipment operation and safety procedures.

Requirements of the Assembly Line Technician:

  • Proven experience in a manufacturing facility or factory setting is preferred.
  • Strong mechanical knowledge with the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues.
  • Familiarity with assembly line processes and techniques.
  • Proficient in using hand tools and power tools for assembly tasks.
  • Previous warehouse experience is advantageous for understanding logistics flow.
  • Forklift certification is a plus, enhancing operational efficiency within the facility. Join us as we strive for excellence in manufacturing, where your skills as a Line Technician will contribute significantly to our team’s success!

Benefits of the Assembly line Technician:

  • Experience:

    • Standup Forklift: 1 year (Required)
    • Mechanical assembly: 1 year (Required)
      • Salary to start at $22.00 per hour
      • Medical Insurance
      • Dental Insurance
      • Vision Insurance
      • Paid Time Off
      • Life Insurance

      Job Type: Full Time, Day Time, Overtime Available

      Job Type: Temp-to-hire

    Ability to Commute:

    • Eagan, MN 55122 (Required)

    Work Location: In person

APPLY NOW!

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS JOB?

Fill out the form below with your contact info and any questions. We will get back to you soon.

Building Stability: Why Light Industrial and Office Staff Stay—or Leave in the Twin Cities

Managers talking to warehouse staff

In Minnesota’s fast-paced labor market—spanning warehouse floors to busy office suites—businesses in the Twin Cities need employees who stick. From packaging and production to clerical support and HR tasks, understanding why your talent stays (or leaves) can enable smarter staffing.

Since 1996, Northland Staffing Solutions has been a trusted Twin Cities partner, offering tailored staffing for both light industrial and office clerical roles, backed by decades of combined expertise. Let’s explore the retention dynamics at play—and how to build a more enduring workforce.

Why Employees Leave: From the Factory Floor to the Administrative Desk

  • Few Clear Growth Paths
    Whether an assembly-line worker or administrative assistant, talent seeks progress. Without defined career trajectories—like team lead roles or opportunities to develop cross-functional skills—motivation can stall.
  • Feeling Undervalued
    Whether assembling packages or managing payroll, support roles often go unacknowledged. Simple recognition—for consistent attendance or accuracy—can significantly reduce turnover.
  • Communication Gaps
    Rapid-shift environments or busy office workflows suffer when expectations are unclear. When employees don’t know how they’re doing—or what’s expected next—engagement erodes.

What Makes Staff Stay: Key Drivers for Light Industrial and Clerical Roles

  • Clarity and Leadership
    Well-organized shift briefings or regular check-ins help boost confidence and consistency—whether on the warehouse floor or in the back office.
  • Skill Building and Cross-Training
    Opportunities to learn equipment operation or bookkeeping software empower individuals—and make them more invested in staying.
  • Recognition that Resonates
    Acknowledging production milestones or error-free reports builds pride and retention across roles.
  • Purpose and Support
    Workers stay when they feel their work matters—whether it’s keeping fulfillment running smoothly or ensuring payroll accuracy. Plus, knowing there’s a staffing partner who backs their success matters.

How Northland Staffing Helps Keep Talent in Place

Drawing from their rich Twin Cities experience—established in Minneapolis in 1996 and expanded throughout St. Paul and Hopkins—Northland brings consultative staffing solutions for both light industrial and office functions. Their team boasts over 50 years of combined staffing leadership, offering reliability and thoughtful service.

Flexible Solutions for Every Need
From temporary and contract-to-hire to direct placements and payrolling, Northland crafts staffing plans that fit each client’s unique challenges—seasonal surges, hiring freezes, or special projects.

24/7 Availability and Deep Local Roots
With offices in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Hopkins, Northland delivers staffing support around the clock across the Twin Cities metro area.

Consultative Partnership
They don’t just place workers—they analyze staffing needs with clients and propose solutions meant to increase productivity and align with company culture.

Proven Satisfaction
Clients and job seekers value Northland’s personal approach and dependable service—highlighting their energetic team and the stability they bring to workplaces.

Recommendations for Employers Across Both Sectors

Challenge Practical Approach
Production or admin turnover Map career paths—and promote internally when possible
Staff feel unseen in routine roles Spotlight dependability and achievements regularly
Shift or department misalignment Establish daily briefings or progress check-ins
Peak demand or hiring uncertainty Partner with Northland for temp-to-hire flexibility

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re managing warehouse floors or clerical teams, retaining top talent depends on clarity, recognition, growth, and meaningful support. Northland Staffing Solutions, with its Twin Cities legacy and dual-sector expertise, is positioned to be a valuable staffing ally—helping your workforce not just stay, but also thrive.

If you’re ready to build a more stable and supported team—be it industrial or office-based—reach out to explore how Northland can tailor a staffing solution that works for you.