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.

Spring 2025 Staffing Trends: Hot Jobs in Light Industrial, Janitorial, and Mechanical Maintenance

Spring 2025 Staffing Trends: Hot Jobs in Light Industrial, Janitorial, and Mechanical Maintenance at Northland Staffing

As spring unfolds in the Twin Cities, businesses are ramping up their hiring efforts to meet seasonal demands. At Northland Staffing, we specialize in connecting job seekers with roles in light industrial, janitorial services, and mechanical maintenance—three industries experiencing significant growth this season. Let’s dive into the hottest jobs, why candidates should consider these roles, and why businesses should partner with Northland Staffing to fill these critical positions.

Hot Jobs This Spring

Light Industrial Roles

The light industrial sector is booming in Minneapolis-St. Paul, driven by manufacturing growth and increased logistics needs. Key roles include:

  • Warehouse Associates: Responsible for inventory management, order picking, and shipping/receiving tasks.
  • Assembly Line Technicians: Assemble products efficiently while ensuring quality standards.
  • Forklift Operators: Operate machinery to move goods in warehouses and distribution centers.
  • Machine Operators: Oversee the operation of manufacturing equipment to produce goods.
  • Material Handlers: Manage raw materials and finished products across production lines.

Janitorial Positions

Janitorial services are essential for maintaining clean and safe environments in commercial and industrial spaces. Trending roles include:

  • Facility Cleaners: Ensure cleanliness in office buildings, warehouses, and retail spaces.
  • Specialized Sanitation Workers: Perform deep cleaning and sanitization of medical facilities or food production areas.
  • Floor Technicians: Maintain floors using specialized cleaning equipment like buffers and scrubbers.

Mechanical Maintenance Jobs

Mechanical maintenance is critical for keeping industrial operations running smoothly. High-demand positions include:

  • Maintenance Technicians: Perform preventative maintenance and repairs on machinery.
  • HVAC Technicians: Install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  • Industrial Mechanics: Troubleshoot and fix mechanical systems in manufacturing plants.

Trending FAQs for Job Seekers

  1. Why should I apply for these jobs?
    • Competitive Pay: Many light industrial and mechanical maintenance roles offer above-average hourly wages with opportunities for overtime.
    • Skill Development: These jobs provide hands-on experience with machinery, tools, and processes that can lead to long-term career growth.
    • Flexibility: Temporary or temp-to-hire positions allow you to explore different industries without long-term commitment.
    • Job Security: Industries like manufacturing, logistics, and janitorial services are essential, offering stable employment opportunities.
  2. What qualifications do I need?
    • Most light industrial jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Specialized roles like forklift operators may need certifications or prior experience. Mechanical maintenance positions often require technical training or apprenticeship experience.
  3. Are these jobs entry-level?
    • Many roles are accessible to entry-level candidates with on-the-job training provided. However, advanced positions like machine operators or maintenance technicians may require prior experience or certifications.

Why Businesses Should Partner with Northland Staffing

  1. Access to a Vetted Workforce
    • Northland Staffing ensures every candidate undergoes rigorous screening for reliability, skill level, and safety compliance. This means businesses receive highly qualified workers ready to perform from day one.
  2. Customized Staffing Solutions
    • Whether you need temporary staff for seasonal projects or temp-to-hire solutions to evaluate long-term fit, we provide flexible options tailored to your specific needs.
  3. Industry Expertise
    • With years of experience staffing light industrial, janitorial, and mechanical maintenance roles in the Twin Cities, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in these sectors. Our team matches candidates with the exact skills needed to keep operations running smoothly.
  4. Fast Turnaround
    • We know downtime is costly. Our streamlined recruitment process ensures quick placement of workers so businesses can maintain productivity without delays.
  5. Cost Efficiency
    • By outsourcing staffing needs to Northland Staffing, companies save time and resources on recruiting while accessing top-tier talent at competitive rates.

Conclusion

This spring presents exciting opportunities for both job seekers and businesses in the Twin Cities’ thriving light industrial, janitorial, and mechanical maintenance sectors. Whether you’re looking for a new role or need skilled workers to fill critical positions quickly, Northland Staffing is your trusted partner.

For job seekers: Take advantage of flexible schedules, competitive pay, and career-building opportunities by applying today!
For employers: Let us help you find reliable talent that keeps your operations running at peak efficiency this season.

Contact Northland Staffing now to spring into action!

Citations:

  1. https://www.twincitystaffing.com/industries-light-industrial/
  2. https://www.indeed.com/q-industrial-l-minneapolis,-mn-jobs.html
  3. https://www.indeed.com/q-light-industrial-l-minneapolis,-mn-jobs.html
  4. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Light-Industrial/-in-St-Paul,MN
  5. https://www.simplyhired.com/search?q=light+industrial+manufacturing&l=saint+paul%2C+mn
  6. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Industrial/-in-Minneapolis,MN
  7. https://mn.gov/deed/oid/index.jsp
  8. https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/industrial-part-time-jobs-greater-minneapolis-st.-paul-area

Workforce Trends 2025: Skills-Based Hiring and Demographic Shifts in Light Industrial Jobs

Workforce Trends 2025: Skills-Based Hiring and Shifting Demographics in Light Industrial

As we look ahead to 2025, significant shifts in workforce trends are shaping industries across the board. Among the most impactful changes are the rise of skills-based hiring practices and the ongoing evolution of workplace demographics. These trends are especially relevant in the light industrial sector, which includes roles such as janitors, warehouse workers, assembly line workers, mechanical assemblers, and technicians. Temporary staffing agencies are uniquely equipped to help businesses and job seekers adapt to these developments, ensuring smooth transitions and successful outcomes.

Prediction: Skills-Based Hiring Needs Will Increase

Skills-based hiring focuses on practical abilities rather than formal education or lengthy resumes. This approach is rapidly gaining traction as employers aim to fill roles with workers who can hit the ground running.

According to a study by TestGorilla, 81% of employers are now incorporating skills-based hiring practices into their recruitment strategies. In the light industrial sector, this shift is particularly impactful:

  • Warehouse workers need expertise in inventory management software, forklift operation, and order fulfillment.
  • Assembly line workers must demonstrate precision, efficiency, and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Mechanical assemblers and technicians are often evaluated based on their experience with specialized tools, troubleshooting, and blueprint reading.

By emphasizing real-world skills over traditional credentials, employers can address labor shortages and build a workforce ready to meet production demands.

Trend: Workplace Demographics Will Continue to Shift

The makeup of the workforce is evolving due to several factors, including an aging population, increased cultural diversity, and new generational dynamics. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that workers aged 55 and older will make up 25% of the workforce by 2025, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies.

  • Janitors and custodians represent a workforce segment that often includes older employees, bringing years of experience and reliability to the job.
  • Warehouse teams increasingly reflect a mix of backgrounds, languages, and experiences, requiring employers to prioritize clear communication and teamwork.
  • Assembly line workers now include younger generations who value technological integration and flexible schedules.

Employers must adapt to these shifts by creating environments that embrace diversity, encourage collaboration, and address the needs of all team members.

How Temporary Staffing Agencies Can Help

Temporary staffing agencies are pivotal in navigating these workforce changes. Here’s how they provide value to both businesses and workers in the light industrial sector:

  • Matching Skills to Jobs: Staffing agencies assess candidates’ specific skills, such as equipment operation or maintenance expertise, ensuring they align with employer needs.
  • Providing Flexibility: As demand fluctuates in industries like manufacturing and logistics, temp agencies offer scalable staffing solutions, from short-term assignments to long-term placements.
  • Fostering Inclusivity: Agencies often have access to a diverse pool of talent, helping employers meet demographic goals while maintaining operational efficiency.
  • Streamlining Onboarding: With expertise in light industrial roles, staffing agencies help workers quickly acclimate to job requirements, reducing downtime for employers.

A Future Built on Adaptability

As 2025 approaches, the light industrial job market is experiencing exciting transformations. By embracing skills-based hiring and responding to shifting demographics, employers can ensure their teams are prepared to thrive. Temporary staffing agencies play a critical role in this evolution, connecting skilled workers with opportunities that match their abilities and ambitions.

Whether you’re looking for a skilled mechanical assembler or a dependable janitor, partnering with a temp agency can be the key to success in this dynamic and evolving workforce landscape.

References

Supporting Our Community Through Giving

At Northland Staffing, giving back is at the heart of what we do. This holiday season, we proudly donated hundreds of socks, gloves, and hats to the Wilder Foundation, helping those in need stay warm during Minnesota’s harsh winters.

We believe in building stronger communities by pairing our resources with local needs. From donation drives to volunteer efforts, we’re committed to making a difference.

Join us in supporting great causes—donate, volunteer, or spread the word. Together, we can create a lasting impact, both in and out of the workplace.

Tips For Jobseekers With Disabilities Seeking Employment

Tips For Jobseekers With Disabilities Seeking Employment Northland Staffing

Pursuing employment can be quite intense as jobseekers prepare to highlight occupational skills and potentials that supersede those of other applicants. The job search requires thorough preparation such as proper attire, anticipating interview questions, and doing researching on the company and/or leadership team. People with disabilities may face other challenges along with the normal stressors involved in seeking work. Unfortunately there are instances were employers stereotype people with disabilities, making it difficult for some individuals to find fulfilling jobs. As a result some people prefer not to share their disabilities for fear of humiliation or disqualifications of potential job openings. Sadly such individuals are deprived from the deserved opportunity to share his or her given potential in the workplace.

The United States Department of Labor defines The American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) as follows; “The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and governmental activities. The ADA also establishes requirements for telecommunications relay services.” Employers cannot discriminate when providing employee trainings, promotions, or benefits. Also, upon hire employers must provide suitable accommodations for people with disabilities to meet job requirements. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) advises jobseekers to determine if job duties can be performed with adequate employer accommodations when seeking employment. Doing so decreases the burden of applying to numerous jobs and ensures protection under the ADA.

The EEOC comments further on how the ADA defines disability noting:

To be protected under the ADA, you must have, have a record of, or be regarded as having a substantial, as opposed to a minor, impairment. A substantial impairment is one that significantly limits or restricts a major life activity such as hearing, seeing, speaking, walking, breathing, performing manual tasks, caring for oneself, learning or working.

Tips for Jobseekers With Disabilities In Search of Employment:

1. Research your employment rights. The EEOC and The United States Department of Labor offer resourceful information on ADA and related topics.

2. Partner with organizations in your area for employment opportunities and other available services for people with disabilities.

3. Focus on your strengths. We each have unique skills and abilities to share with others. Highlight individual skills and qualities that will be of positive contribution to the related job position. For instance: “I am excited to apply for the administrative assistance position. I feel confident in my potential to not only meet but also exceed company expectations. I am great with people skills and love to help others.” If the opportunity allows you can share your vision and potentials with the interviewer.

4. Work with a human resource or staffing personnel who can provide sound guidance and assistance throughout the hiring process. Staffing professionals are experienced in the field and can assist with resume tips and interview preparation. Human resource personnel can also suggest how, when, and to whom to address personal accommodations and disability questions.

5. Never feel inferior to other applicants. Career success is highly influenced by our mental attitude to follow through goals and aspirations with confidence. You know your individual strengths better than anyone else. Tap into your personal gifts and talents, seeking employment opportunities that align with your skills, abilities, and career goals.

Effective Leadership Tips for Young Executives

Effective Leadership Tips for Young executives Northland staffing job

Research from DDI and The Conference Board tells us that the biggest leadership trend is trust. According to the DDI study, The Skills That Help Young Executives Excel are actually more empathetic then in the past. As young professionals continue to emerge in leadership roles it’s important to implement effective management skills for the current trends.

Effective leadership trends and concerns you should be developing:

  1. Driving for Results. In terms of personal dispositions, these winners were highly ambitious. And their motivation tended to be intrinsic. Their goals were multi-dimensional and consistent with their heightened sense of personal purpose and social justice values. Similarly, their results orientation was as strong for their business as it was for their community endeavors.
  2. Driving Inclusion: Receptivity to feedback and curiosity were demonstrated at high levels, especially in the pressure of the simulation. Additionally, the winners tended to demonstrate behaviors such as the use of open questions and a learning mindset. These behaviors also resulted in higher levels of inclusion. And as a result, the winners showed more robust business strategy formulation and stronger execution alignment, accountability, and engagement of employees.
  3. Listening and Responding with Empathy: This cohort of winners listened and responded with empathy more consistently during the simulation. Subsequently, they showed skill at managing complex interpersonal interactions, influencing, and engaging and mobilizing others.
  4. Leading Virtually. Both the judge’s interviews and simulation for the 2021 DDI competition were conducted virtually. This clearly showed the winners were skilled at virtual leadership.

Trust and inclusion seem to be the biggest attributes young professionals can build. Whether choosing how to implement AI, resolving team conflict, or changing the nature of work, leaders who prioritize building trust will better retain, and capitalize on, the talent they need to drive success for the future.