22 WESTERN PALLET
Shifting Job Requirements
As more automation enters plants, job requirements are evolving. While there is still plenty of physical exertion in the industry, automation is presenting new challenges for employers. Automation suppliers are responding by making machine user interfaces as intuitive as possible, but technology familiarity is an increasingly important consideration in recruitment and training. One best practice is the development of a formal “onboarding” process not just for new employees but also for new machinery to ensure that all operators are fully trained prior to operation.
Likewise, newer generations of forklifts and commercial vehicles increasingly come with smart technologies that require update training when new machines are introduced.
Second Chance Programs
Hiring second-chance employees—those who are reentrants after serving time in prison—can be a powerful way for pallet companies to address labor shortages while contributing to societal rehabilitation. One of the primary benefits is the potential for finding dedicated, hardworking individuals who are eager to prove themselves in their new lives. Many reentrants have developed strong work ethics while incarcerated, often working in demanding, hands-on prison jobs like manufacturing, maintenance, or food services.
Having paid their debt to society, these individuals often feel a sense of loyalty to employers who give them a second chance, making them more likely to be reliable, long-term employees. Hiring second-chance employees can enhance a company's reputation for social responsibility and even offer financial incentives, such as tax credits through programs like the IRS Work Opportunity Credit, which provides up to $5,000 in protection against theft or damages.
However, there are challenges to consider. Hiring reentrants involves navigating potential risks, such as the fear of workplace conflicts or legal issues. Employers may also need to provide extra training or mentorship to help these employees reintegrate into the workforce.
To minimize risks, businesses can use safeguards such as bonding reentrant employees through IRS programs and working closely with parole officers, who monitor the employees' progress and can offer support. Clear communication, structured onboarding, and a supportive work environment are crucial best practices to ensure success. Developing relationships with rehabilitation programs and setting up mentorship systems can further ease the integration of second chance employees, benefiting both the company and the broader community.
Employment Trends and Ideas
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Average U.S. pallet repair wages, Sept, 2024. Source: Ziprecruiter.