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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in Harrisonburg, VA

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives. Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes ...

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives. Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes ...

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives. Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes ...

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives. Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes ...

Social Must work closely with feeder and another operator as a team Working Conditions Mildly ... help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 ...

The Machine Operator will be responsible for working from shop drawing, procedures and/or other ... Come join Wieland today and help us continue to build a global corporation we are all proud to ...

The Machine Operator will be responsible for working from shop drawing, procedures and/or other ... Come join Wieland today and help us continue to build a global corporation we are all proud to ...

The Machine Operator will be responsible for working from shop drawing, procedures and/or other ... Come join Wieland today and help us continue to build a global corporation we are all proud to ...

Machine/Trim Saw Operator

Stanley, VA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

... help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 ... Trim saw Operator is responsible for leading and driving the trimming activities in the plant with ...

Machine/Trim Saw Operator

Stanley, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

... help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 ... Trim saw Operator is responsible for leading and driving the trimming activities in the plant with ...

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

New Market, VA

$20 - $27.25/hr

... help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow ... Resolves issues related to the organization's production, machinery, processing, and/or packaging ...

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

New Market, VA

$20 - $27.25/hr

... help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow ... other machine via either a single step or process that does not include a multi-step or multi ...

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

New Market, VA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

... help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow ... other machine via either a single step or process that does not include a multi-step or multi ...

CNC Operator I - Entry-US

New Market, VA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

... help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow ... other machine via either a single step or process that does not include a multi-step or multi ...

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Helper Machine Operator information

See Harrisonburg, VA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in Harrisonburg, VA is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $17.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a helper machine operator do?

As a Helper Machine Operator, your daily tasks usually involve assisting the main machine operator by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, and monitoring equipment for proper operation. You may also be responsible for basic maintenance, cleaning the work area, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Collaboration with other team members, such as quality control staff and maintenance technicians, is common to ensure efficient production and adherence to safety standards.

What is a helper machine operator?

Helper Machine Operators assist main machine operators in manufacturing and production settings. Their duties typically include setting up machinery, loading materials, monitoring machine performance, and performing basic maintenance or cleaning. They also help ensure products meet quality standards and may record production data. This role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently. No formal education is usually required, but on-the-job training is common.

What is the difference between Helper Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHelper Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with setup, cleaning, and basic operationOperate machinery independently, monitor processes, troubleshoot

The Helper Machine Operator typically assists with basic tasks and supports the Machine Operator, who handles more complex machinery operation. Both roles are common in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, but the Machine Operator has more responsibility and independence in operating equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helper machine operator?

To thrive as a Helper Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with common manufacturing tools, basic computer systems, and sometimes forklift certification is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in supporting machine operators and maintaining workflow. These skills ensure safe operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to efficient production in manufacturing environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Helper Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Helper Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA are:
What cities near Harrisonburg, VA are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Harrisonburg, VA with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in Harrisonburg, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,893 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Machine Operator Assistant

Novolex

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted just now


Novolex rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Why Choose Us?

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.

Our Sustainability Commitment

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.


Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring

Compensation:

  • Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -Paid Weekly!
  • Eligible for annual wage increases
  • Eligible for monthly bonus based upon plant productivity*                                  

 Available Shift:

  • 7:00 AM-7:00 PM/7:00 PM-7:00 AM (rotates every 3 months) (2x2x3 schedule)

TEXT TO APPLY NUMBER:

  • 928-668-6539 (928-NOVOLEX)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the operation of assigned Extrusion Machines at the required pace.
  • Work with the Machine Operator A's to maintain production flow and conduct light troubleshooting. 
  • Perform general set-up, change-over, and shut-down tasks.
  • Monitor all extrusion and winding machinery operations continuously for quality and efficiencies.
  • Diagnose/troubleshoot mechanical machine problems and make adjustments to correct machine problems and maintain run rates.
  • Perform necessary adjustments to maintain and/or improve product quality.
  • Maintain run efficiencies established for the line and products.
  • Perform quality check at prescribed intervals.
  • Perform material tasks related to the assigned operations.
  • Complete paperwork, including but not limited to Operator Report, Quality Checks, and other forms as required.
  • Promptly communicates to the supervisor any issues concerning health and safety, hygiene, quality, and efficiencies.
  • Maintain housekeeping around assigned operations.
  • Follow company safety procedures and policies.
  • Assist other operators as needed.
  • Communicate production information, both written and verbal.
  • Perform other assigned duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

  • Machine operator experience or equivalent maintenance/ mechanical experience.
  • Demonstrated mechanical experience required.
  • Must have good communication skills—written and verbal and be able to demonstrate basic math proficiency.
  • Must be able to use tools as required.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with others effectively as a part of a team is essential.

#INDFGR


What You'll Get From UsBenefits

With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.

Community Engagement

At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.

Training and Development

We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.

Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.

Formerly Pactiv Evergreen


What Novolex employees say

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